
In September the plan was that I would return to the States for my deputation in June 2024. And now that plan has changed! There are many reasons for this, but the two most compelling reasons are 1) Molly Morton has had to delay her deputation, and if I were to go as planned, we would be in the U.S. at the same time, and 2) Ministry is going well and stability and continuity are important to the groups taking root and growing into something more. Stability and continuity have been difficult the past years, with COVID-19 (2020/21), my own deputation in 2021/22, discovering I needed open-heart surgery and recovery (2022/23), and so the groups faltered. However, 2024 has been a strong year, starting first with the Parent and Baby Group (January 2024), and in September, I added a toddler group. I also co-lead a Bible Study for young mums on Friday mornings. I feel confident that by delaying deputation to 2026 these groups will have the opportunity to grow deep roots that will weather a few months without me!
I continue to be part of the rotation for preaching at the Nazarene Church, and I am grateful for the opportunity. I am thankful for opportunities to interact with Irish Friends. And after the past weekend of study, I am halfway through Year 1 of “Training in the Ministry of Spiritual Companioning.”
Here are a few photos of the groups! Thank you again.
Kathi Perry