GA work is hard. Honestly, it’s a little scary. The hours are long, and the decisions we make affect real people across our denomination. But my time in committee, first on Zoom, now here in Milwaukee – has been insightful, humbling, and challenging in the best way. What’s stayed with me most is how I believe the Holy Spirit showed up in our committee. Day two was rough. There were harsh words, frayed tension, hurt feelings. But the next day, we found repair and healing, because people were willing to listen and reason together. That same spirit followed us to Milwaukee.

And the Philly delegation is the best. It’s been amazing to be in community with people you like and who have your back. We’re forming friendships that will endure. I’m grateful and honored to be called to this work.

Elder Gene Burke (Salt & Light Community Church. Gene Burke is an Elder and Minister of Music at Salt & Light Community Church in Philadelphia, where he leads worship and coordinates the music ministry with an emphasis on nurturing both excellence and community