Harald Wollan, General Conference Associate Secretary, welcomed the retiring Inter-European Division (EUD) President, Bruno Vertallier to the stage for the region's report. Vertallier opened humorously, saying that the good news is he will no longer be president of the EUD and wishes all the best to his successor, the recently elected Mário Brito. He went on to share more good news, alerting everyone that the EUD booth is giving out Swiss chocolate in the exhibition centre!
The report focused on the Division's passion for God's Second Coming and how life stories are the strongest evidence of God's work. The video delved into the lives of people who are spreading the Gospel in a variety of ways. Stories included a lady who has made teaching sign language into a ministry and is fighting against communication barriers.
The EUD Communication Team asked Elder Vertallier for a short Interview.
Elder Vertallier, you are finishing your mandate of 6,5 years as EUD President. What was your most difficult task as EUD President?
Could you present the steps that determined your mandate?
High values concerning the spiritual dimension and respect of the understanding and practice of the different fields have been the driving keys in my leadership. The church is not only about traditions and doctrines but the church is made of people with different experiences. I have to accept these differences although I sometimes fear that people reinterpret to their convenience the beliefs and make it difficult for other to be in tune with what I call a balanced perspective.
What are the challenges the Inter-European Region will have to face in the future?
Which is your major recommendation to the Inter-european church members, to the Inter-european pastors and to your successor?
Thank you Elder Vertallier for your outstanding commitment and wisdom. May the Lord bless you, your dear wife Christiane and your whole family.