It was an ordinary morning in 1997 during my senior six vacation when I felt the need to talk to someone about a few things that were troubling me. I needed someone sincere, sound, and steadfast, so I took a taxi to KPC to meet Pastor Gary Skinner, even though I didn’t have an appointment.
Our conversation flowed easily. I shared stories from my childhood, the wonderful life we had thanks to my father’s work, and how everything had since changed. I talked about how after getting saved, I felt like my confidence had diminished. I missed the audacious, self-assured version of myself that excelled at everything I set my mind to (except cooking and sewing at the time). I wasn’t the Bev I used to be. I felt like I had lost my cheerful attitude and confidence, two core parts of who I am. I needed answers—about myself, my faith, and my future with God.
Pastor Gary listened closely and said, “Beverley, you don’t seem like someone who’s lost confidence. You’re one of the most confident people to ever walk into my office. You speak so well.” I don’t remember much else from our conversation, but what stuck with me was that Pastor Gary truly sees people. He sees their potential and nurtures it. His confidence in God and the systems he built at KPC and Watoto allowed him to disciple Pastor Rwotlonyo, who is now the lead pastor of Watoto.
To witness a missionary establishment trust enough to pass leadership to a Ugandan is remarkable. I’ve coordinated two children’s Cantatas under Watoto, worked at Power FM under KPC, and taught Sunday school for years—long enough to understand the immense effort and dedication behind their leadership, especially under Marilyn Skinner. Despite challenges, they’ve maintained integrity without public scandals or social media dramas.
The handover from Pastor Gary to Pastor Rwotlonyo, and from Marilyn to Vernita, taught us all something about leadership. Those who may have held grudges or misunderstandings had to reflect. I’m excited that Pastor Gary is writing a book, which will undoubtedly bless many. And in the future, when Pastor Rwotlonyo hands over, I believe we’ll witness the same grace in leadership transition.
