Experiencing World Conference for the first time: A Canadian perspective

Bill Ashwell, a lifelong member of the Cambridge, ON congregation, shares reflections from his first journey to Independence and World Conference—a deeply personal experience shaped by family heritage and a long history of faith.

This, without question, has been the trip of my lifetime: my first trip to Independence and World Conference.

I have given much thought to my life in the church and its place in my family's history. Last June, I was invited to be the guest speaker at the 125th anniversary service for the Port Elgin congregation. I was honoured and at the same time a wee bit anxious about this. As I began to research the history of the congregation, I counted a familial connection of seven generations (including nieces, nephews, great-nieces and -nephews). Do the math and that adds up to 125 years of spiritual connection of birth, life, and family in this church that brought me to Independence to gather, share and fellowship with church members from all over.

The twelve-hour drive from Sarnia gave me ample time to ponder the significance of this trip. Circumstances were such that we arrived a week early, allowing us to “chill” for a week or so and do the tourist thing.

Saturday gave my brother-in-law, Rick and me, the opportunity to begin our sightseeing in and around Independence. As we drove through the tree-lined side streets, I caught glimpses of the Temple spire and my heart quickened in anticipation. This was happening! This was real, not just some glossy church publication photo!

I was fumbling with my phone as we arrived at the Temple/Auditorium complex. “Here we are,” Rick said quietly. He knew what this experience would mean to me.

At that moment I forgot about my phone as my heart exploded! I was nearly speechless with emotion. I had never, EVER been so overwhelmed and overjoyed! This was a moment for which I had waited my entire life. (okay, as far as the Temple goes, my entire ADULT life...) I was simply awestruck and exhilarated!!

At that moment I thought of my ancestors, and how their newfound faith brought them to congregate in a small lakeside, Ontario town and create, grow and nurture a faith community of their own. I thought of my mother and father, Marilyn and Bill Ashwell, who, each in their own way, lived and loved their Lord and God, and carried that devotion in their hearts and souls until their dying days.

While we were there, the carillon at the Stone Church started playing the old hymns and as I took a few photos of the building, I saw a female cardinal fly in my direction and land on a low tree branch. I knew right then and there that Mom and Dad were there with Rick and me. It was an emotional day for me, to say the least.
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I am feeling blessed and happy.