From
the manse at 5 Leven Place
It is now almost
a year ago that I indicated to consistory that I was not coping so well,
feeling extremely tired, finding it hard to do my work 100%. My local GP
diagnosed me with suffering chronic fatigue, even though I myself would rather
call it a total burnout. Over the years, I have done my work always full of
enthusiasm, always trying to give it 100%. I loved caring for the sheep the
LORD had entrusted in my care. Yet by the end of 2011, I felt burned out,
lacking the energy needed to give that full 100 % care.
I had hoped that
after having had three months off, I would have regained enough energy to do
some work again. The three months leave indeed did help. Yet in hindsight, I
can now see that I started work too early, even though it was with a reduced
workload. More and more it became too hard even to cope with this reduced
workload. The desire was there to bring more visits, interacting with the sheep
of the flock, who were in need of pastoral care. Yet energy was lacking.
About six weeks
ago, my wife and I discussed all this at length, also asking the LORD for
guidance. Together we concluded that the time had come to ask consistory for
early retirement. This would take the pressure away. Yet we also thought of the
pastoral care of the congregation, which needed a minister who can care for the
flock 100%. A few weeks ago, on a Sunday looking at the congregation in front
of me, it crossed my mind how much need there is for pastoral care. Yet at
present, I simply lack the energy to give that care.
My wife and I
are thankful that consistory without any reserve has acceded to our request,
which means that pending the concurring advice of classis I will be retiring
from my tasks in Southern River as from Sunday 25 November, when the Lord
willing I hope to deliver my last sermon in active service. It is our sincere
wish and prayer that in due time the LORD will restore health and give energy
back, allowing me still do some work within the bond of churches.
Concluding this note, we would like to thank all of
you for your prayerful support during my time of sickness. We also like to
thank you for making my birthday very special in passing on your
good wishes via Facebook, emails and cards, and personally on Friday evening
during an open house function. It has been overwhelming. In all this, we have experienced the warmth
of the communion of saints. The past year has not always been easy, yet we
thank the LORD for His sustaining grace, by which He carried us every day. What
a great comfort it is to know that this wonderful grace will be there also for
the coming year. Undeserved – LORD, how great is Thy faithfulness.
Rev. & Mrs. Veldman
