Countdown Continues

A Voice crying out in a Transforming World!
Sione Teiapa’a Tukutau
Pastor, Stratton and Kirk United Methodist Churches
Clergy Reserve Delegate Jurisdictional Conference


Greetings Brothers and Sisters,
As I look forward to the upcoming General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas I
would like to express my gratitude to you all for trusting me to represent you.
While I am not a voting delegate I will be monitoring the “Ministry and Higher
Education Legislative Committee.”  Studying this legislative committee, I have
begun to comprehend the differences between each of us that come from our
individual backgrounds and culture.

The United Methodist Church exists in a multi-cultural, racially diverse world
yet, in many respects, we have struggled for years to change the world to fit
our own comfort zone.  Our challenge as Christians is to arrive at solutions
that accommodate the needs of everyone.  In my cross-cultural ministry I have
had challenges and risked making adjustments to my life so I could better serve
people in another culture.

In support of Youngsook’s primary interest to revise the ordination process so our Church may attract more young
people, I would like to challenge my dear brothers and sisters who are going to
have voice at the General Conference to invite the guidance of the Holy Spirit
in your decision-making.

Last, but not least, let me quote one of President John F. Kennedy’s sayings:
“Think not of what your country can do for you, but of what you can do for your
country.” I pray we will, “Think not of what The United Methodist Church can do
for you, but of what you can do for The United Methodist Church.”