Val Ellis |
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The Crosslinks' Web Interview, October 2005
It looks as if the Belfast office is going to be revolutionised by exercise machines and a strict fitness regime. No more tea and biscuit breaks, just a water cooler in the corner. At least that's what I fear having heard Valerie Ellis' story - told as she sipped a glass of water and trotted round the office...
Valerie, is it true that you're planning to have everyone here running the Belfast marathon soon?
I enjoy keeping myself fit . . . swimming . . . fitness classes . . . and the gym. When I'm home in Fermanagh, I like to go out cycling or go for a lovely walk in the country.
I can see them getting nervous - what else do you enjoy doing?
I love to get into books that challenge me in my Christian walk and get me thinking about important things.
What will you be doing with Crosslinks (apart from the fitness training)?
My official job title is "Church partnership support and development coordinator"(!) I expect to be teaching God's Word in order to educate Christian people about God's mission plan for his world and to encourage, challenge and enthuse them to become actively involved whether at home or overseas.
Life before Crosslinks?
I became a Christian when I was 19 years old. It was at that stage in my life, I realised I was a sinner and that I needed to ask God's forgiveness. I did ask God's forgiveness and thanked him for his plan of salvation.
I am so glad to be in relationship with the living God. It's my desire to know him better through his word and through this be equipped to serve him in his world.
Is this your first job?
I finished a social work degree in June 2003 and shortly after took up a social work position in Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. For about 2 years I was part of a team of social workers, working in child & family care. The work was challenging and broadened my mind to the social problems in society. I worked with a lovely bunch of people and did learn a lot from my time as a social worker, but I'm excited about my new post with Crosslinks and look forward to getting to know and work with the Crosslink team and Crosslink supporters.
What challenges, apart from learning your official job title, have you met so far?
I am from Derrygonnelly, a small village in Co. Fermanagh. Since taking up this post with Crosslinks I have moved to Belfast. This has been a challenge in itself, in terms of getting used to travelling into / round the city (would value your prayers!).
Do you have a favourite Bible verse?
"Watch your life and doctrine closely" - 1 Timothy 4:16
I've been studying 1 Timothy with 'Explore' (fantastic Bible study notes from 'The Good Book Company). From this verse, I am reminded of the need to watch my life (my words . . my conduct . . my motives . . my faith) and doctrine (the whole of the teaching ministry) closely. This is to be a constant watchfulness as I seek to obey God with the life he has given me through submission and obedience to his word.
Thanks, Valerie... maybe I will have that cup of fresh cold water now!
