I was so gutted that I couldn’t be at the farewell do, I really wanted to be a part of that, I’ll no doubt see some of the pictures etc. soon.
Helmut and Elisabeth, you guys are just the best! And I will miss you both very much being around.
It seems a lifetime ago that I came to work with you at ICC, firstly part time and then full time as the cassette duplication work was growing so fast. I remember the very first conference I did in Penygroes Wales, 1978 I think it was, amongst all the hard work what a laugh we all had. Miriam and Daniel loved to kick me in the shins, the “5*” luxury sheds, the Asterix books etc.! Really I have such very fond memories of all the conferences I went on with you, despite the new Wine cattle shed’s and early Greenbelt loo’s!
You have both been an inspiration. You’ve always encouraged me allowed me to learn and make mistakes etc. allowed me to grow; I’ve very much valued your leadership over the last 27 years. Your faith has always inspired me. I will always remember you sharing about your prayer diary, and sharing the answered prayers. What a mighty God we serve!
Fond memories:- The early days and all exiting times of firsts we encountered. The first Spring Harvest with “Arnold” the new custom built copier being delivered to the site. Allowing Andy and I to paint the new duplication room in true 70’s fashion, chocolate brown waves and a wave machine with disco lights too. Chat’s on the long journeys to and from conferences – Helmut I probably bored you to tears about the latest music I was into! Elisabeth’s wonderful meals and the fun times we always had. The family atmosphere you encouraged in the workplace. Elisabeth’s cakes! End of conference team meals, Christmas meals with the Christmas tapes, with all the hilarious outtakes from conferences etc. There are really too many fond memories to put into words here.
I know this is not goodbye, and we’ll still see each other from time to time as you drop in etc, but for me it will never be the same.
I love you guys to bits and your influence will forever be with me. I pray that God will richly bless you above and beyond all that you could image or think of in these exciting fresh steps you are taking.
A grateful friend.
Geoff Durrant.
