I’m sitting in the airport in Amsterdam as I write. It’s been a whirlwind of a day, and not quite finished yet!
As I mentioned previously, Wednesday was the last day of the Symposium in Guntur. What I did not mention was how that was unexpected! We were under the impression that we had another half-day left of presenting. Instead, we learned Wednesday morning that there was a graduation and ordination of two young men taking place on Thursday morning. They had been in the current model of part-time seminary for about 7 years; now they have been examined and approved.
As I travel back, I am so grateful to the people of India who welcomed me. But I am also excited to see my family!
We arrived at the seminary/school to find Bishop Shalem ready for a joint graduation/ordination service.Michael was ready to robe up and preach—but he also had to don a graduation gown…and then they insisted I do, too! Very unexpected!Selfie with the pastors in attendance pre-service.The two graduates : Suresh Paul (L), and Ruben (R).Once the graduation portion ended, it was time to switch into ordination mode.The newly ordained with their families.Lunch is being prepared outside in the courtyard.A BFLC pastor, Jacob, asked for a selfie. How could I say no? Incidentally, I am on who knows how many dozens of Indian people’s digital photo albums now! So many requests for photos with people I don’t exactly know, yet we’re all part of the same family of God!A view of the seminary/school at the entrance.The first seminary classroom.Another classroom, with lockers. Many of the classrooms are used for the Moriah School these days.Over the past few days, some of the Symposium attendees have stayed in the classrooms.One of the two seminary classrooms set up for Zoom meetings and distance learning.A view of another side of the seminary courtyard below. That building with the metal roof is used for the children of Moriah School.Some lazy dogs in the adjacent lot. Being lazy—some things are just so universal, no matter what side of the globe you’re on!A view of the luncheon taking place.A view of the city from the top floor of the seminary building.We went souvenir shopping and came across this bookstore.Boarding my flight from Vijayawada to Delhi. It was over an hour and a half late, making things quite rushed to make my next flight. But God is good, and I’m on my way! On this flight, I was exhausted and didn’t want to do anything but sleep. However, a young Hindu man named Vishnu sat beside me and he was chatty! Even more, he was interested in what I believed as a Christian. The 2.5 hour flight was a crash course in the Bible and Christian theology. He was very appreciative of the discussion and explanation in a way that was understandable and not so forceful as other Christians he’s met have been. Pray for Vishnu and what happens next with those Gospel seeds.
