It has been somewhat of a quiet summer - not just with regards to updates on my blogsite, but in general it has been, without doubt, a summer like no other. With that said, though, it has not been without its advantages. About a week ago I got back home to San Carlos after spending an extended time in Canada over the summer "inspired" by changes (for obvious reasons) resulting in no immediate need to be back here in Mexico. Many of our regularly scheduled activities were placed on hold and in their place I was able to take advantage of an extended stay in Manitoba, reconnecting on a deeper level with family, friends, and my church family - something that I had not been able to do to this extent in the thirteen years I've been down here. I appreciated very much being able to meet with people, become a "regular church member" again for a while at my home church, while also having a time to rest, read, reflect, and (p)repare (I couldn't think of another r-word...!) for what comes next.
Speaking of what is coming next, (the question that many of us have quit even trying to ask...) we are excited with the prospect of continuing with CEC's course at the end of January. Lord willing (not something that we say lightly anymore!) the conditions here in Mexico are such that will allow for, with some modifications, the next session of CEC to go forward in the New Year. Of all the years, this one just happens to be one where we have had more interest than ever this "early" in the recruitment season. We have officially received two applications but have been in contact with a number of others who are looking forward to coming. Our teachers as well are mostly lined up with a few still to confirm. Since I've been back here, though, it has been exciting to gear up for whatever is around the corner. Of course none of us know, but then we didn't really know anyways - we just thought we knew! So, Lord willing, we press onward!
Please pray for students! Pray also for us as staff as well as we make the necessary adjustments to ensure, as best we can, the success of the coming school year. Pray for a clear sense of direction and unity as well for us. It is an understatement to say that we live in challenging times, but with these challenges are also opportunities to reconsider our "status quo" and perhaps allow us to hone in on what is truly important. There is lots to do in the coming weeks - preparation for the course in general, recruitment, preparation for classes, some course homework I still have to do, and the other responsibilities, but I am glad to be back here, and also glad that people like you (not only read these updates! ;) but are also praying for me and for the work down here. God bless each one of you! ¡Dios les bendiga!
