John White - Developing Church Leadership in the Russian Speaking World DCU, Prospect Ilicha 106-A, Donetsk 83059, UKRAINE September 2005 011-38062-345-5342 | jwhite@alumni.princeton.edu | http://www.marucheck.net/jw
First, I have to say that I’m very sorry for having not written you for so long. The spring semester was certainly my busiest one yet, teaching two classes, taking a public relations trip to the States, and preparing for a 10 week summer home assignment turned out to be more than I was ready to handle. But, finally back in Ukraine, I think I’m ready for the new fall semester...and to finally write you a letter!
Now, let me go back in time a little bit to May and share with you a little bit about our last graduating class. I was the “kurator” (academic advisor) for our third year missions students and taught them two classes over their last year. So, it was with great pride and sadness that I got to see them graduate. As a symbol of finishing their studies and now being called to be witnesses throughout the earth, we gave them each a homing pigeon to release. As these pigeons left DCU and returned home, many of our students will return home and minister in churches there. But, several will also go to new places in Russia, Ukraine, and elsewhere to start new ministries, being witnesses of God’s truth, just as Jesus told us to do. Please pray for these new graduates—many are young and are still seeking God’s direction as to how to best serve Him both now and for the years to come.
I often challenge my students to think about what Jesus said in Acts 1:8, part of which is quoted above. But the part not included above is very important, too—being witnesses not just in the ends of the earth, but in Jerusalem, as well. Each one of us should think about how we can pray for, send missionaries to, or be missionaries ourselves in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the ends of the earth.
It was time for me to come “back to Jerusalem” this summer and visit family, friends and churches that have helped send me out to Ukraine. I had a very busy and good summer, speaking in eight different churches and visiting 13 different states over the course of 10 weeks. I was very happy to see many of my friends and family, and was sorry not to be able to see every one. Thanks to each of you for your prayers!
One last thing: DCU is going through some difficult times financially as prices have been increasing since the Orange Revolution and support over the summer has been low. If you would like to make a special gift at the beginning of the school year, we would really appreciate it. Just send it to WorldVenture, DCU special project (#6433-903).
Back (once again!) in Ukraine,
John