Stepping down and stepping out

The purpose of Emmaus is to grow Christian disciples so they can better serve the church.  Not just the local church they attend every Sunday, but THE CHURCH – the Body of Christ.  In February of 1997, I attended my Walk to Emmaus, and that was the beginning of an incredible journey. 

The 3-day experience was life-changing, and living intentionally in the 4^th Day has made me who I am.  My participation has afforded me opportunities that never would have come my way otherwise.  I’ve attended countless Candlelights and Gatherings…served in the conference room as an Assistant Table Leader, Table Leader, ALD, Board Rep and Weekend Lay Director.  I’ve shared this gift with many by sponsoring them on their own Walks.

I continue to be held accountable in my 4^th Day by my family and friends, and most especially by an extraordinary woman God knew I would need for years to come.  Not only was she my Weekend Lay Director, but she is my weekly prayer partner and dear friend. 

I’ve served on the local Board of Directors and been Community Lay Director. I became a Certified Trainer in 2005, the Northeast Regional Leader in 2007, and the Southeast Regional Leader in 2014.  I led the first women’s Emmaus Walk in the Philippines in 2012, and I represented the international office at the National Australian Emmaus Conference in 2013.  I have been to Emmaus communities from Maine to Florida, plus California, Wyoming and Puerto Rico.  Nashville has been like a second home to me for over 10 years.  Not only have I traveled extensively, but I have witnessed story after story of how God has used the Emmaus movement and its people to change the world – one life at a time. 

I have served with incredibly talented and gifted people who laid down their lives for their friends time and time again.  I’ve been humbled in ways I can’t even explain, and I have been blessed beyond my wildest dreams. Now, as I step down from the international leadership team, ‘thank you’ seems so insignificant for nearly 20 years of growth in grace and love.  But I’m looking ahead and I’m ready for what comes next.  I know that God goes with me, and I know that no matter what…Love Never Fails!

Love and blessings to all –

Ilyse