Raymond was a major figure in Belgian-Luxembourg Adventism and a pillar of the Woluwe Church. He has passed away at the age of 101. Blessed with a strong personality, Raymond left a lasting impression on those around him. Always committed, he never shied away from any task. Armed with his teaching degree, he first managed the school of the Brussels Centre Church for 7 years. He then dedicated over 5 years to education in Cameroon. After returning to Belgium, Raymond continued his career as a teacher before becoming the director of the primary section at the Athénée Maïmonide in Brussels. Within our federation, he was notably involved with Radio Maranatha in Brussels. For many years, he also led the Sabbath School departments and, for about twenty years, the Religious Liberty department. These years dedicated to religious freedom allowed him to connect with numerous political and religious leaders, such as Archbishop Danneels and the Chief Rabbi of Brussels, Albert Guigui. He also defended the cause of the Sabbath within the school system, never hesitating to knock on the door of the Minister of Education.
Raymond was deeply passionate about education, reading, and gardening. In fact, he stood out by winning the “most beautiful garden” prize several times in his residential estate. He also deeply cherished his family, and wrote an intergenerational biography about them.
Raymond leaves behind a rich legacy. His unwavering commitment remains a source of motivation. He never hesitated to highlight the coherence of our Adventist identity, particularly by emphasizing the importance of health reform. Finally, he developed a vital openness toward others to build bridges, understand other religious denominations, introduce them to the subtleties of Adventism, and enrich himself through their strengths. He therefore advocated for an evangelism that was not compartmentalized. We are profoundly grateful for the significant legacy he leaves behind.
On his living room wall remains a frame of family photos showcasing the thirty or so children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren the Lord allowed him to know. Following Raymond’s passing, the sentence written on it still resonates for our large Christian family: “Family… Like branches on a tree… We all grow in different directions… Yet our roots remain as one.” Assuredly, we have the certainty of being united in Christ, who remains our root and our hope.
Fabio Luna.