Farewell to a president

Now that it's official, I can finally write something about it. I have been called as Digital Channel Coordinator for the Netherlands-Flanders region. This also means that I am released as president of the elders quorum in Ghent. I had known for a few weeks, but now that it's here, it does affect me.

Of the callings I have already had, this one has crept deepest into my heart. I never expected it would be so different to bear the responsibility of leading a quorum, or rather, serving. The love I feel for each of the brethren is a very special feeling.

I have gotten to know each of you much better by being able to talk about everything that occupied you. The little problems, the fun events... as a quorum president, you know almost everything. In itself, that's great because that's how I felt super involved and close to everyone.

It's that feeling that I will miss. That closeness, that intimate friendship. From now on, I have to be careful not to be curious about all the things that continue to happen in your families.

I hope that friendship doesn't change. I have carried out this calling with immense love. In the beginning, I was sometimes a bit harder to get everything on track, but always sincere in the hope that everyone could rely on each other.

I am also proud of this quorum: home teaching, mutual support, temple trips, fun moments... we shared it all.

Also a special word of thanks to my counselors Jean-Pierre, Patrick and certainly Geert in the first year not to forget. It was pleasant together and we could always count on each other. That friendship is rock-solid for life.

Thank you, brethren, for all those beautiful moments.