Ministry

Coming to the end

Job said, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away;     may the name of the Lord be praised.” Job 1:21

I have spent a little over five years at Endeavour College but this week, as we conclude the school year, my time at Endeavour will come to a close. In 2018, I will be joining Concordia College in Highgate to take up the position as their College chaplain. Saying goodbye to everybody here is certainly sad, as there have been many things throughout my time for which to give thanks. I won’t be able to do it justice here, but I will attempt to list a few things that have been especially significant for me during this time.

From a family perspective, I had the life-changing experience of becoming a father during my time at Endeavour, with my wife giving birth to our two children. I can still remember receiving so many encouraging words and some very special gifts from people in our community, so these early days of family life will always be fondly associated with my time at Endeavour. Thanks to everyone who was gracious towards me when I was struggling with the usual sleep deprivation experienced by parents in the early lives of their children!!

I have really enjoyed being part of Year 12 MAX classes and playing a role in the Year 12 Retreat as well, as this has enabled me to see many of our students grow into fine young adults, who are willing to grapple with some of the bigger issues of life. Being part of staff retreats and professional development has also given me the opportunity to help nurture people’s faith, which is always something I feel privileged to experience.

It has certainly been hugely encouraging to hear from students who have come to faith during my time, or whose faith has grown.  Australian culture in our present day can sometimes deter people from engaging with the Christian faith, so to see the Spirit working in the lives of our students in these times gives us all great hope.

As well as the many good times we have enjoyed here, there have also been periods of challenge and adversity. During these times, I have been extremely grateful for the wisdom and care shown by Heather and the Management Team, as well as others involved in care around the school such as Marni, our counsellor, and Alex Schmocker, our Youth Worker, just to name a few. The care offered by all of our staff truly goes the extra mile and they are to be commended for the sacrifices they make for our students and their families. Nothing of great significance can be achieved on our own and the team work we have all shared in here at Endeavour has been enriching and fulfilling.

I look forward to hearing how things develop at Endeavour, as a College that is doing remarkably well given its relatively young age. Thanks to all those in the supporting congregations and College council who have shown wonderful support for the school in its first twenty years. May it continue for many, many more.

God be praised for what he has given to all of us. May we also praise him when he, in his wisdom, takes away.

In Christ,

Pastor Dale