As we prepare for Edwina Thomas' date of retirement, you are invited to share your memories about her role as SOMA's National Director since 1991. To participate, please submit your stories and photos here. This website will be updated weekly with your memories, so check back often!

To my dear friends,

My call to participate in SOMA’s ministry came in 1986 even though I had been praying for SOMA before that time. My first day as full time director of SOMA USA was July 1, 1991 when I was in attendance at a SOMA International Board Meeting in Canterbury, England. The intervening years have been adventuresome, risky at times, hard work, and very rewarding.

I remind you that as our office moves from Virginia to Ft. Worth there are many persons whose lives and daily work SOMA appreciates: Carol Updike (administrator), Gail Scott (personal assistant), Lori Sandoval (bookkeeper), Chris Brown (Mission Management), John White (IT), Heidi Reichert (web), and numerous volunteers.

This blog is offering you the opportunity to share with the SOMA family some of the ways that God has blessed and enriched your walk through SOMA experiences. Do you have a favorite memory or a laugh to share?

But I read in a book by David Wong, Finishing Well, “As a seasoned mountaineer puts it, reaching the top is optional; coming down is mandatory.”

Friends, this is not about thanking me, but thanking God! Your contribution may help us/me on my journey down!

Love in Christ!

Edwina

Yes, I thank God for your ministry and friendship over the years. I remember the first time we met--a Wednesday night service at All Saints Church. You gave a review of one of your many trips to Africa. God used your message to open my eyes and awareness to His hand and work in the world outside of the United States. How wonderful it was to realize that God was bigger than my small concept. And that God could use our African brothers and sisters to minister to us here in the U.S. Thanks for opening my eyes!! All the best to you and David as you enter this new phase of life. May God richly bless you as you go forward. Most Sincerely, David and Joy Gwaltney