to helping fulfill the Great Commission is an amazing
responsibility and privilege.
Classes are held on weekdays from 9:30 to 3:00.
Interest groups also draw involvement after formal
classes end, including sewing, crochet, baking, and
games. Last year, we had a coffee group, with deli-
cious, fresh-baked goods. The year before, bowling
was a hit. This extra comradery cements relationships
and increases the motivation to become fluent.
Classes are generally conducted with two to four
teachers each morning, dividing the candidates into
groups by their level of English. The same small group
meets every morning, using a curriculum that encour-
ages conversation. Afternoon classes include world
religions, transitioning to a new culture, Korean his-
tory and culture, and workshops to write their testi-
monies, mission moments, prayers, Bible stories, and
sermons. The workshops prepare them to conduct a
weekly English EMTC worship service. We study subjects
they already know in the Korean language, but they are
being stretched to express themselves and the Gospel
message in English so they can take thei r place
among Christian world leaders who share the same
passion for evangelization.
As former missionaries in Korea from 1968-1996,
we love to share our lives, lessons, and love for the
Lord with these missionaries. Once, from the platform at
a formal event, Jerry referred to the Korean students as
high quality individuals. He mistakenly used a phrase in
Korean intended for items and not for people. It
brought many laughs, but the students understood
the sincere compliment and haven’t forgotten it.
Being invited to return for two months annually is a
sweet spot for us. Relationships continue through tex-
ting and phone calls after we leave. We seek to stay in
touch to continue to encourage them and their ministries.
Korean missionaries are making a worldwide impact
for Christ. They have certainly impacted our lives.
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