I have enjoyed meeting you each month in this column of the Lake Union Herald. It has been my privilege to share intimate glimpses into my life and thinking. Your warm greetings were felt whenever we met in person, and it was extremely gratifying to hear some of you say, "I never miss your editorial, and it has been a blessing to me."

Your moral and spiritual support helped me carry on during some very difficult times. Jackie and I have been uplifted by your prayers and messages of encouragement while we fought the cancer fight. We know firsthand the power of the praying saints, and our great God in Heaven has answered those prayers.

Most of you have heard by now that we are entering retirement from our official duties in administration here at the Lake Union Conference office. We seek a more even, less stressful pace, and it seems like just the right time to do it. We have built a house in our hometown of Germantown, Ohio, and it, along with some of our ten grandchildren, beckon to us. You are not surprised because I have made no secret of the fact that I am a true "Buckeye."

The deep, burning desire during the past five years has been to see evangelism flourish throughout this territory. It has been a joyous satisfaction to witness laity and pastors alike seize the idea and turn it into souls for the kingdom. I was blessed to conduct two evangelistic series myself this year. I am thankful for the support of the pastors and members in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Gary, Indiana, and the officers and staff of the Lake Union as we sought out souls under God.

My other hope was to see Christian education strengthened. The Lord has blessed this Union by giving us strong, qualified, spiritual leadership in the education department. I know that the program is in good hands, and already there are signs of a re-awakening of our members to the importance and necessity of vibrant, mission-driven schools.

I know that you will prayerfully support the one God has chosen to fill the office of Lake Union president. I wish for him the same blessing that you have been to me during the past 11 years of service in this Union. And so to the Illinois, Indiana, Lake Region, Michigan and Wisconsin conference families, I bid you a fond farewell and the richest of God's blessings as you press on to the great day of the Lord.

"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen" (Revelation 22:21).