Geneva notes

Saint Andrews has come and gone. Different kinds of noises are being made about the event, some positive, others frustrated; all depending on the expectation invested in it beforehand, or on the temperament of the individual. It was of course an experiment, and any judgement as to whether or not it was successful cannot be made in a hurry. This double issue of Reformed World, reflecting something of the thinking of Saint Andrews, has been put together to enable those who were not there in person to become part of that experiment/experience.¹ (These two words in English are in French indicated by only one: expérience.) Saint Andrews was quite an experience, and we should like as many people as possible to share it. Not least in order that they, too, may participate in what all those who were present have hailed as a vital ingredient of the whole affair, namely, the strengthening of relationships.

Farewell to Paulette Piguet

Guest editor for this issue of Reformed World is Paulette Piguet, who has just left WARC after 27 years of good service. (It is the first time ever that she has written the editorial for Reformed World - why did we never think of asking her before?) Warm tribute has been paid to Paulette at the centennial consultation in St Andrews, both in words uttered, and in the form of a standing ovation by the consultation participants. The new president of the Alliance, Dr James I McCord, said in his speech of appreciation: "Paulette Piguet is not only a person of deep piety, but also a good theologian. When a lot of nonsense was kicked around, she spoke to us in such a way that we were being called back to our senses."

Geneva staff colleagues want to use this opportunity to associate themselves with all that has been said to and about Paulette in thanks and appreciation of all that she has done and meant during her long period of service: more than a quarter of that Century of Service which Dr Pradervand has described in his book! Our warmest good wishes go with her as she returns to her Vaudois home in Le Brassus. Fare well, Paulette!

Staff contracts renewed

The Saint Andrews meeting of the WARC executive committee renewed until August 31 1980, the staff contracts of Dr Edmond Perret, general secretary of the Alliance; Rev Richmond Smith, secretary of the department of theology; and Rev Fred Kaan, secretary of the department of cooperation and witness.

Note