I was 16 when I made a personal commitment to Christ. In my youthful enthusiasm, the verse ”..as for me and my household we will serve the Lord..” Joshua 24:15, was my promise to the Lord. God honoured that commitment & led me into a pastoral ministry as a wife of a Methodist clergy man, Rev Sampath Kumar. It was a joy to partner with my husband in the varied responsibilities he held for 40 years in the ministry of the Methodist Church in India (MCI) from Pastoral to Episcopal leadership. During which time saw the need to equip women and youth, and initiated several income generating Projects & Programmes.
Writing was furthest in my mind. Little did I think that God would lead me into the literature ministry. It was both a teaching and learning experience as opportunities and needs arose. I have conducted several Writers’ Workshops in India and at the World Assembly, Loughborough, UK., been Editor of GROW, a newsletter for Methodist Pastors, of Methodist Church in India 1989-93, Editor of a newsletter of the Lucknow and Bangalore Episcopal Areas Gold’s Goldmine and Methodist Pioneer respectively, from 1993- 2006. Have some publication to my credit: written articles in Indian and international publications, a book on the life of Susanna Wesley – recommended by the United Methodist Women –USA for the 2006 – 2010 Reading Programme.
My first encounter with the World Federation was the 10th Assembly at Loughborough, 2001. I was awed, and still am!! My connection with the Federation grew when I was elected as President of South Asia Area. The additional responsibility to be the Editor of the Tree of Life from 2006-2011 was just delightful. I am overwhelmed at the kind gesture of the World Executive Committee for inviting me to continue as Editor. I need your continued support, comments and yes even constructive criticism to make the Tree of Life relevant for our times. Bambelela – Christ is our HOPE always.