|PIC1|Having pioneered the Sports and Leisure Ministry in association with the Heads of Churches, where he negotiated chaplaincy appointments throughout Australian professional sport, he discovered that many sport board members were leaders in the business community.
"Since 1982, the opportunity to have innumerable private conversations with those working in the corporate world has been a remarkable experience, and one of great privilege.," M V Tronson noted. "It has enabled me to converse pastorally with these men and women."
Moreover he has found that many of the corporate and business leaders he has spoken with have made an effort to be part of their local Christian congregation, and found there a very different experience from their week-day duties.
"In today's world of multiple choices and demands upon our time, those working in business often find the solace of their family as their 'soft place'. Given their commitments and dedication to their work, it is no small decision for them to make the time to attend a church service and/or a mid week home group," M V Tronson explained.
But he has found to his pleasant surprise that this is precisely what many do, and it is in this setting that they have found the sense of calm that has eluded them from other sources of activity, relaxation or rest.
"Collective worship with fellow pilgrims following Jesus Christ, whatever your age or station in life, brings with it a certain levelling; and with it a proclivity for you, as a worshipper among others of like mind, to enjoy being in the presence of the Lord," M V Tonson said.
Having worshipped in many congregations in his travels, M V Tronson is no longer surprised after a church service, observing 'a little old lady' in conversation with 'a corporate leader' about his/her children, or a 'home maker' discussing with a highly esteemed 'businessman' a prayer point.
"This dimension brings with it a whole different set of parameters from that experienced in high-pressure corporate life, one in which people from all walks can find comfort with a sense of both being cared for and giving of themselves in the service of Christ," M V Tronson noted.