I just returned from Ukraine where I spent 2 weeks teaching Research and Critical Thinking to a class of 41 students. Everything went very well. The materials were all translated into Russian which made teaching the class much smoother. The students did very well and some progressed from being frustrated with writing to turning out some good papers. I’ll be teaching the second part of this class in January. Thanks for Praying!
Also, continue praying for me about decisions about Ukraine. I spent some of my time there with other missionaries exploring the possibilities, needs and costs of me moving to Ukraine and teaching there on a regular basis. This summer, I will be evaluating the information to see if this is a good idea. There are three main reasons for considering this: 1) Language… while my Russian is improving, I will not be able to use it like I need to without some time in language immersion; 2) Teaching … the seminary there is expanding its programs to include a Masters in Biblical Counseling and they need me to teach some additional classes; 3) Church … I would like to be more involved with a local church in Ukraine and be able to help churches and pastors in a practical way. Right now, I am limited to going to church there 1-2 times when I am teaching. It would help to be more directly connected with Ukrainian pastors and churches.
All of this is still in the exploration stage. I am assessing costs (as well as “counting the cost” of what I would need to give up to move to Ukraine!) and trying to determine the best course of action. I appreciate your prayers for me about this decision. Thanks for Praying!