August 12, 2005
Bill Morgan did double-duty again this summer. On the one hand, he taught two training classes for members of the church in Tirana, Albania. On the other hand, he directed eleven teachers in a WEI short-term mission effort.
Bill reports, “The summer session this year was five weeks [long], which is one week shorter than previous years. Those participating felt it was a great session with a lot accomplished.
“In addition to teaching one-on-one with new students, and some return students, an emphasis was also given to special classes for members of the church. These classes were designed to help members in their personal growth and spiritual maturity.
“There were eleven teachers: Lee Allen, Art and Bonnie Edwards, Jim Fox, Bill Morgan, Stinn and Lindita McDaniel, Emily Pownall, Nancy Walker, Rosalie Waymire, and Alison Winstead.
“Sadete Hoxha [WEI Secretary] reported that seventy-five students were taught this summer. There were two baptisms: Livia Themelko and Blerina Kruja.
“Two graduation parties were given this year, one at the end of week three and the other at the end of week five. These parties serve several purposes: (1) to award diplomas to students who have completed their studies, (2) to give opportunity for all students to have fellowship with one another, (3) to give opportunity for parents to meet the teachers, other students, and the WEI staff, and (4) to serve refreshments, play games, and thus allow students and parents to see the value that comes from fellowship in the church.”
After returning to the U.S., Stinn and Lindita McDaniel came by our Gresham office for a visit. Lindita, an Albanian by birth, was unusually excited. She exclaimed that one of her former Albanian university professors had approached her on a street in Tirana and asked, “Will you teach my daughter, Livia, this summer?”
After studying with Stinn McDaniel and Jim Fox, Livia said, “I want to be baptized.” “I couldn’t believe it,” Lindita said. “My professor’s daughter is now my sister!”
