Embracing New Ministries

Nathan's primary task is teaching at the Resurrection of Christ Theological Academy, which now has 55 students enrolled in a four-year theological training program. This year, Nathan is teaching patrology to second and third year students.

Several weeks ago, during one of Nathan's week-long absences from school due to a trip to Russia, I and the children stayed at the seminary for several days, in part, to spend time with the women students, but also so I could proctor one of Nathan's exams.  During our stay, I heard first-hand from students how much they appreciate Nathan's classes.   "We learn so much from Professor Nathan," several told me.   "We are afraid of `his exams, but we study hard to prepare for them."

A week ago, a colleague of Nathan's, who was of the same age, died suddenly from heart failure.  His death shocked everyone.  Nathan attended the funeral and was dismayed by the grieving of the mourners, who wailed "as those who have no hope."  He used the opportunity to speak afterwards with his students about the hope we have in Christ-that despite our grief and loss, which are very real, we have hope for those who are in Christ, for in death they are united with their Lord in a place where there is no grief or suffering.

It has been wonderful to see how many in the Christian community here have visited the grieving widow who is a teacher at our Church's elementary school, and her children, and have extended to them love, consolation, and financial assistance.

        Please pray for this suffering woman, Maria, and her two young children, and for our seminary students, that they will understand the hope that we have in Christ, even in the face of death.