The Virginia Annual Conference Ministry of Scouting team presented the Silver Torch Award to Bishop Sharma D. Lewis on Monday, Oct. 12. Mr. Bill Chaffin, conference director of Scouting, said, “I first met our new bishop in May of 2016. From day one, she has exemplified everything that would identify a candidate for the Silver Torch.”
The Silver Torch is awarded to an adult whose exemplary service to these programs shine beyond their own annual conference. Many laity and clergy serve above and beyond supporting youth.
“Bishops hold a special place within the Silver Torch,” said Chaffin. “They provide encouragement and growth for spiritual well-being of youth within the church and surrounding communities. The torch itself is an emblem of Christian faithfulness. A torch bearer carries the light with them. They share the light with others extending the reach of ministry. This award recognizes builders of Christian character and service to others.”
Chaffin said in an early meeting with Bishop Lewis when she was new to the Virginia Conference, “She immediately embraced our Scouting Ministry and has continued. Bishop Lewis has supported and lived this calling to ‘go into all the world.’This has been seen not just by us in the Virginia Conference but her ministry has shown far and wide.”
