I just returned from retracing some of the steps of the Apostle Paul in Greece, and let me tell you, being in just a few of the places where Paul traveled for ministry has forever shaped me. I will never read the book of Acts and Paul’s letters quite the same following this trip!

A standout moment for me was joining Dr. Robb in serving Holy Communion to our group while standing among the ruins of the ancient city of Corinth.

The Corinthians were a people of diverse cultures and worldly influences, known for their great wealth as seafaring tradespeople. Needless to say, Paul received a wide range of reactions to his teaching and preaching what he knew to be true about Jesus the Messiah. He suffered opposition, abuse and threats from both Gentiles and Jews. Despite these setbacks, Paul began to see the fruit of his faithful ministry, and many new believers were baptized into the faith. In Acts 18:9-10, we read that the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” My goodness, what a word of encouragement and protection!

Keep on speaking, do not be silent. This phrase landed especially well for me when I read it aloud to our group standing there in Corinth last week — and again today, as I reflect on that experience having just walked in the footsteps of Paul. We must keep on speaking God’s Word to anyone and everyone who will listen, no matter the challenge. I see this as a faithful response to God’s call and His provision as we journey together in this new era of Methodism.

Being away for a couple of weeks has provided renewed perspective and highlighted for me the presence of the Holy Spirit moving throughout our church communities. Uplifted by the spiritual journey of the last 14 days, I sense God's presence as strong as I ever have now that I am back on campus, and just in time for Vision Night and our churchwide vote for affiliation with the Global Methodist Church this Sunday, May 7.

Hopefully, by now, you have had a chance to read our Decision Guide and my blog post stating the reasons why I feel the Global Methodist Church (GMC) is the best option for denominational affiliation. All 15 members of our clergy team have also signed this letter encouraging you to vote in favor of GMC affiliation.

Remember, nothing about our church theology, worship or programming will change as a result of affiliation, but it will allow us to exponentially multiply our efforts with other like-minded, like-hearted Wesleyan Methodists whose deepest desire is to share Jesus Christ with those who do not yet know Him.

Keep on speaking, do not be silent.