“Where’s Wesley?”

Last week I had the opportunity to attend a training conference for Moldovan pastors. It was a blessing to sit in on these sessions with many great pastors from this country. The sessions were taught by several different speakers, but the keynote speaker was Rev. Jim Bradford, general secretary of the Assemblies of God. His preaching was very practical and down-to-earth and I felt that it was exactly what these pastors needed to hear. I told my wife Donna that Rev. Bradford’s two hours of teaching on sermon preparation was worth more than an entire Bible college class on the same subject.

I enjoy attending conferences in the states. The anticipation builds as the event gets closer. I look forward to seeing old friends, relaxing, being encouraged. One thing that I always enjoy is staying in a hotel. That seems to make all of the above come to pass easier. In Moldova, they don’t stay in hotels. They line up mattresses in dorm rooms and hallways sleeping close together to fit as many people as they can. Although I usually try my best to jump in and become a part of the culture, I was glad when Andy informed me that we would be staying in a hotel.

Most Europeans wear dark clothes. Rarely would you see anyone dressed in bright colors, especially among the older generation. Most of the pastors at this conference were wearing dark colors. I did my best to blend in over the first few days, wearing dark dress clothes. On Thursday morning, I knew that I was leaving quickly after only one session, so I dressed much more casual. What I didn’t know was that Thursday was group picture day. So, in the picture below, take your time and pick me out of the several hundred people in the photo. I know you’re thinking this will be difficult, but it won’t. Reply and let me know how long it took you to find me.