Lots of "New" for New Members

It has been a few months since orientation, and many of our new members are on the field now!  In this time of transition, they are facing a range of emotions...

Confusion as they settle into their new homes, new cultures, new "normals."

Hopefulness as they welcome students into their dorms and classrooms.

Homesickness as they miss familiar places, processes, and people.

Enthusiasm as the school year kicks off with energetic ceremonies and exciting events.

Uncertainty as they create course materials, learn to drive or use public transportation, try to communicate in a new language, and embrace many other unknowns.

You get the idea.  It can be overwhelming.

I'm reminded of my own transitions and God's presence and promises that sustained me during those seasons.  Join me in praying that they would be encouraged by the truths that the Lord is with them (Deut. 31:6), working through them (Phil. 1:6), and using them for impact (Eph. 2:10).

The math classroom of a new member serving at Faith Academy

Black Forest Academy new staff, two of whom I worked with this year

Exploring the area is always an adventure

First day at BFA today!

Due to some complications, one new school project was unable to open its doors this fall.  Our teachers who were already in-country were offered several options.  Two decided to take positions at another school in the same region that had already begun classes but still lacked key staff members.  Their willingness to trust Jesus in the midst of these changes and jump into new positions is inspirational!

Take two: Headed to Bogota, Colombia, to serve at El Camino Academy!

Please also join me in praying for those who are still raising support - that they would find encouragement and hope in Christ, and continue to trust in God's timing and direction.

"[I am] confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ ... And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God."  (Philippians 1:6, 9-11)