TeachBeyond Orientation

New Black Forest Academy Staff

I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to Minneapolis, Minnesota for a week of orientation with my organization, TeachBeyond. I am so thankful for the opportunity to get to know other missionaries and teachers that will be serving with me in Germany and in 17 other countries around the world. 

We had a very packed schedule, 7:30 am-9:00 pm, which allowed plenty of time to learn new things and share in conversation. I learned about the vision of TeachBeyond and about the transformative power of education in the mission field. Christ is at work! So many countries are crying out for a quality education for their children. Parents want to give their children something that they didn't have, and simply need people who are willing to go and lovingly teach them. Education is a powerful medium for shaping individual lives, but also cultures and countries. I also learned about cross-cultural adaptation and sensitivity, preparing for transitions, working with Third Culture Kids, and more. I am so encouraged, and feel more prepared for my upcoming ministry. It's going to be challenging, but I know that God is with me, and I feel a strong sense of peace. 

One of the things I was most challenged by was our study of Psalm 23. This chapter is so familiar to me, but I had never taken the time to study its meaning. It's all about a journey-there are times of comfort and security, and times of hardship. But he leads me through life, for his name's sake, not mine. Everything I do should be for his sake and not my own. I'm in the midst of a transition, and I'm entering into a new world. It's painful to let go of everything that is known and familiar, but I know that I will gain so much more by trusting God and his plan for my life. 

I am leaving in less than 40 days, and know that God is preparing me for this exciting new chapter of my life. 

I am continuing to ask others to partner with me in this journey. So far, I have raised about 32% of the funds necessary to leave on August 10th. God is so good!

Would you please consider partnering with me by donating to my ministry?

I don't know about you, but I go to Starbucks a lot, and usually can't leave without spending $3-5. Would you be willing to go without one coffee a week, or about $20 a month, in order to support my ministry instead? Your gift is tax deductible, and you will receive a receipt in the mail.

Please visit the "How to Get Involved" section of my blog to make a donation by mail or online!
   

So Thankful for New Friends!