Many of you have
been praying for us and watching Craig's educational journey as he began his
Masters of Arts in International Development from Eastern University in May
2013. It has been an incredible
experience for Craig of how to bring holistic Christian development that does
not bring dependency but empowers communities to discover their God given
assets and opportunities. Carolyn also went on this journey with Craig as she
reviewed papers and gave encouragement during the journey. While it seems like the journey has ended with
Craig receiving his Masters, it has really only begun with the possibility of a
new assignment.
The purpose for
seeking this degree is not the degree itself, but the opportunity it provides to serving
communities in the name of Jesus Christ. The degree has included training in
areas of community development, theology of poverty, disaster relief and
mitigation, advocacy and human rights, microfinance, program planning and
marketing as well as economics. Craig has been honored to study with folks who
have worked with International Justice Mission, Compassion International and
Samaritan's Purse. It has been a transformation of thoughts on how language communities are served.
Please be
praying for the next steps as Craig begins to explore assignments in the
Wycliffe Global Alliance for a role that will allow him to use what he has
learned over the last two years. We will continue to work with Wycliffe and are
so grateful to all who have partnered with us. We want to particularly thank
the Lord for individuals and churches who helped us with the funding of Craig's
tuition the last two years. To God be the Glory. If you are in the Tampa Bay
Area, don't miss the upcoming announcement of a graduation and partnership get
together that the Clendinens will be
hosting. We hope to see all of you soon.
