On behalf of Girls’ Brigade, I’d like to wish you a Happy New Year! We have a whole year in front of us – as we look forward to what this year might bring us, let’s also look back on where we’ve come from.
We all prepared for many activities in 2023 and the biggest was the coronation of King Charles. GB was able to be there to watch this, and the celebration concert the next day. I was privileged to attend the concert, and it was one of my highlights to be able to join with other GB leaders, members, and other volunteers from all sorts of organisations.
GB members took pride of place in the Lord Mayor’s Show and were also able to pay their respects at the Cenotaph for the Remembrance Parade. We also learnt individually, and in groups, about sharing our stories throughout the year.
In Philippians Ch.3:13-14 we’re told by Paul:
‘Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (NIV)’
As we press on into 2024, may we remember to look ahead and focus on that heavenly prize of salvation and becoming more like Christ.
May we be able to continue sharing our stories with our girls to transform, enrich and empower them as we make disciples of them. You’ll also find that the Girls’ Brigade International theme for 2024 is ‘Rise in strength… make disciples’.
2024 will be bringing a new era to GB with our new Chief Executive Officer, Judith Davey-Cole. We look forward to sharing in her new experiences and guidance for what’s ahead for us this year. We pray that GB will thrive and sustain the children and young people that we work with.
May 2024 be a year of encouragement to all of you while we work towards the goal.