Lynn Rhodes is retiring from African Christian College . . . and we want to say Siyabonga! (Thank you!) for his service over the past nine years.
As a beloved member of African Christian College, Lynn Rhodes has taught over 50 courses — from math and computers to counselling, from ethics and theology to practicums. He welcomed over 150 students from thirteen African countries to campus, introduced generous partners to support the ministry, counselled many, travelled the continent recruiting students and equipping churches, and served in various roles including Dean of Students.
Lynn’s faithful response to serve in Eswatini by using his lifetime of experience, knowledge, and skills in ministry, counselling, leadership, and theology stands as an example for others to follow in their search to serve the Kingdom.
This page represents only a slight glimpse of appreciation, memories, and impact the African Christian College community wants to share as a tribute to his love, dedication, and sacrifice.
Lynn has also received a printed and bound tribute book of messages and memories from alumni, students, staff, and board members. You can also download a PDF copy of the tribute book to enjoy electronically.
Lynn’s Resignation Message
To the African Christian College staff and students:
It is with a sad heart that I write this message to you. As some of you have learned, I am not going to be able to return to ACC to continue teaching. I had notified Brad in the past that I needed to retire at the end of 2020. Unfortunately, my last involvement with staff and students was not face to face.
When the Covid-19 outbreak hit in southern Africa, several things happened. The Eswatini government shut down all classroom activity. Then on a Friday, it became apparent that all borders were closing, so I quickly bought a ticket and left early the next morning. That did not allow me to visit with people to say “Good-bye”. But I did not see a need to say “Good-bye” as I was planning to come back in September and teach my final classes and attend graduation. But, with the borders still being closed and with the decision to take everything online for the rest of the year, my plans have changed.
So, let me take this means of bidding farewell to everyone. I have totally enjoyed the time I have spent at ACC, beginning in 2012. My associations with the people there, both staff and students, have changed my life and hopefully I have been involved in some way in life changes for you. It has been a privilege to work with people who are now church leaders in countries across southern Africa. I was also fortunate enough to be able to visit with some of our students in their homes after they graduated. There have been worship gatherings, counselling sessions, devotional times, classes, weddings, baptisms, sermons and many other interactions that I will always remember with gratitude to God for letting me have those experiences. Most of all I am grateful that I have been able to see so many grow and become more like what God wants us to be.
For those about to graduate, I am sorry that I will not be able to be there to see you graduate. For second year students, I wish I could be part of the rest of your journey. For first years, I wish that I had been able to interact with you more and get to know you better. I will miss being able to interact with you in classes. For staff, I wish I could continue to stand side by side with you as you continue to accomplish God’s work at ACC.
Unfortunately, the limitations that come with increasing age require changes in our plans. Being 78 years old is wonderful but it also brings limitations. I found that I no longer have the capacity to keep up with the daily challenges that went with my responsibilities at ACC. For that reason, I have retired. However, I do not plan to sit. I have taken a temporary, part-time assignment to work with the church that provides incoming ACC students with laptops while they look for a preacher.
May God continue to bless each of you personally!
Lynn Rhodes
More Video Messages from ACC Community
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