SPARKS OF INSPIRATION FROM THE DISTRICT MODERATOR
by Jocelyn Watkins, 2026 Illinois/Wisconsin District moderator
Paul wrote those words to Timothy as an encouragement. The next verse, 2 Timothy 1:7, reminds us that “the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” Timothy may have needed reassurance, just as many of us do, that the Spirit within us has not gone out.
Across the Church of the Brethren, it can feel as though our collective flame burns lower than it once did. We face fewer pastors, fewer volunteers, and fewer financial resources. And yet, here in the Illinois/Wisconsin District, I continue to see signs of life. Congregations are finding new ways to worship, even without a pastor. People are experimenting, supporting one another, and rediscovering joy in community.
That is what it means to be kindled anew: not to ignore the challenges, but to believe that God can stir the coals again, perhaps in ways we never expected. A single ember, when tended, can become a warming fire.
The early Brethren knew this well. They gathered in simplicity, shared leadership, and trusted that God could do powerful things through ordinary people. That same Spirit is alive among us today.
So I offer this invitation to every congregation, fellowship, and believer in our district: Tend one small flame. Ask together:
· What might God rekindle among us?
· Is there a ministry that has cooled, a friendship that needs tending, or a song that wants to be sung again?
Perhaps your congregation will try something new such as streaming worship, hosting a neighborhood meal, mentoring young people, or joining voices with another church. Or maybe the Spirit will nudge you toward something older, like a prayer circle, a practice of testifying, or simply visiting those who can no longer come to worship.
Whatever form it takes, let’s fan it together. Each congregation’s flame adds warmth and light to the whole district.
As new sparks catch, I hope you will share your stories. Tell them around fellowship tables, through social media, and in your local newsletters. Send them to the district office, to Walt, or even to me so that others can see how God is at work. And if you find your own way of sharing, do that, too. The important thing is that the stories keep moving, because shared stories keep the fire alive.
This is a season for courage and creativity, for remembering who we are and who we yet can be. Even the smallest spark can light the way. God is still kindling, still breathing, and still sparking renewal in our midst.
May this be the year our district is truly Kindled Anew in worship, in service, in community, and in hope.
(2026 logo designed by Madalyn Metzger)
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