A short word from Vern Harvey who retires in June from all Board roles after a 9-year tenure. We will certainly miss his guidance and wish he and his wife a fulfilling break after Kairos.
Col Stiller – Chair of KPMA
Thank you, Col, for the opportunity to record a few thanks before I retire from the Board at the June 2025 meeting. My return to the Board in 2017, and then Chair in 2018, has been a great chance to experience God’s provision for his ministry, even through Covid. At every step God has provided wonderful people, opportunities to grow and new learnings in how the Holy Spirit guides – the secret seems to be to not interfere and be ready to help quickly with God’s plan.
God has provided so many willing people into challenging jobs over that time; too many to name. But I must single out my wife Lis for her support and being prepared to delay so many promises I hope I can now fulfil.
My first service on the Board started in 1998 a year after KPMA, the company responsible for the running of Kairos, was incorporated. I was recruited to provide some company knowledge to the founding directors who were behind the first Kairos in Parramatta gaol in 1995. My first Kairos Inside was in Silverwater in 1998. I was Board Secretary until 2004, the maximum service on the Board at that time. With my retirement to the wonderful NSW Mid North Coast with my family I returned to service with the local Mid North Coast Regional Committee when God’s plans intervened again.
I was elected Chair in 2018 and Executive Chair in 2020 up until Col Stiller took over the reins in 2024. Deb Poulton stepped up to the essential role of Chief Operating Officer in 2022. I thank God for both of them as I retire as Deputy Chair after my maximum 9 years in June 2025 and 137 (!) Board meetings.
Kairos always needs leaders prepared to step up to help Regional Committees, State Councils and the Board bring the saving, freeing message of Jesus to those desperate for it in prisons and their families. My time in doing so was a wonderful blessing and I am so pleased I said ‘Yes’ when the question was put to me. I leave you with the words of the song based on 1 Samuel 3 which have resonated so personally with me.
Here I am Lord, is it I Lord.
I have heard you calling in the night.
I will go Lord, if you lead me.
I will hold your people in my heart.
God bless
(Dr) Vern Harvey
