OIM Asia has two set meetings per year where all deployed staff are expected to attend. One is the All-Asia Retreat that happens in June of each year in a different location in Asia for a time of fellowship, relaxation, and study. The other is the Asia Workgroup meeting that happens each year in November in the same location (traditionally) of Chiayi, Taiwan.
And for the past two years, the Asia Leadership Team (ALT), consisting of Regional Director (RD), Regional Business Manager (RBM), Area Facilitators (AFs), Director of Theological Education, Shared Ministries Manager and Member Care Coordinator, gathers two days before each of these events for planning. This has been a wonderful opportunity to proactively plan for Regional needs and opportunities, though it adds a layer of exhaustion. Instead of three days of eight hours of meetings, we have five days! However, it’s well worth the exhaustion.
Currently we don’t have a permanent RD, though Rev. Matthew Wood fills that role on an interim basis until a permanent RD is designated. We also are without a RBM, though John Tape from the International Center in St. Louis has been covering those responsibilities (in addition to his previous responsibilities!) for the past year and was kind enough to come to Asia for the ALT budget discussions. We are also down to just one AF (me), as one was transitioned to a new role in the Region and the other is serving as the interim RD.
God-willing, the intensive investment of our combined time and gifts will be a blessing and benefit to the Asia region over the next year and beyond! I’m grateful Gena is able to accompany me on this trip as well!
