Vanessa King and I are teaching English as a Foreign Language in the city of Santiago, located in the northern part of the Dominican Republic (DR).  The English program is one way the mission is reaching out to the community.   These English classes serve as a bridge to share Jesus not only across the external border, but also internally, into the hearts of our students, families, and friends.

The English Program is divided into six week sessions.  Each session begins with an open registration to supply basic information and schedule placement interviews for interested participants.  During the placement interviews, we ask the students general questions about their life, interests, and past experience studying English.   This gives us a chance to determine their level of English and to get know them… before they even step into the classroom.  It shows them that we really care!  Many times, students will ask at the end of the interview, “Why are you doing this?”.  We are able to witness our faith to them, right from the beginning!

Throughout the sessions, we make homes visits to our students.  These visits serve as opportunities to build relationships with our students and their families, sharing the message of the Savior with them.  There are also Bible studies led by the missionary after the English classes and at other times during the week in addition to worship services for those interested in learning more about their Savior.

At the end of each session, we host a party filled with English activities, crafts and games for children, snacks, and a Bible study.  These events are highly attended and provide another opportunity for us to build bridges for Jesus.

Please keep our students and their families in your prayers that Jesus may fill their hearts!

Julia Majerus