This is the seventh training session Walter and I have done together in the past 9 years...and every time I feel honoured and privileged to be part of these few weeks.  With only 3 candidates this year, we shortened the training from three to two weeks.  We condensed some material and adjusted for less discussion and presentation time.  

Every year, a new group comes in, ready to learn and eager to get into their area of ministry.  When the training takes place in spring, we see the change of the season outside and also the growth of the individuals inside!  This year, we arrived at Big River Bible Camp to two feet of snow and very much a wintry welcome!  In the two weeks, we now see ground and grass appearing.  The kids can play on the newly emerging playground.  And I detect that new green fringe of buds on the trees.  Spring!

My role has been very different this time.  I help lead worship in the opening session, then run upstairs to the kitchen to prepare coffee time snack.  I cook lunch and supper the rest of the day.  If I'm organized, I can sneak in a nap or a walk.  After supper, my helpers and I clean up the leftovers and then I set out -breakfast for self-serve.  I did teach two classes this time: "Building Your Support Team" and "Abuse Issues in Ministry" which are my passions.

Walter has done quite a bit of the teaching on topics such as Cross-Cultural ministry, Co-Dependency, Suicide Prevention & Intervention and Spiritual Warfare.  He prepared notes and handouts and felt more ready than in years past.  But every class has unique dynamics and you can never predict where the questions and discussions may lead.

A couple of guest speakers  came to present on Sharing the Gospel Cross-Culturally, Doctrine and NCEM philosophy. Its always good to have many perspectives for a well-rounded experience at candidate training.  

The childcare piece of these weeks has been amazing!  The mom of 5 brought her kids and has been homeschooling her own and the other family's two children.  Plus caring for two toddlers.  Super-woman!  So for the most part, this year's training has been running smoothly.

I best get back to the kitchen to heat up smoked pork, cook rice in the InstaPot and steam some veggies.  Dessert is apple crisp with Dream Whip.  

One more full day...so little time to teach a lifetime of wisdom, advice and vision!