Pastor's Notes

    I have received materials to begin working on my next class.  I waited to start until October 1, so that I would have until the middle of May to complete the class.  Since I am not aware of how my time will be consumed with the merging of our churches, I attempted to take an easier class.  I am enrolled in Post Exilic Prophets which covers Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.  I have to read Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi four times each, outlining each chapter and finding the key verse of each chapter: read 800 pages of collateral reading, from at least ten sources: and write a 17-20 page research paper.  That's what I get for looking for an easy class. :)

    I am hoping to complete early, and then to take some classes in Hebrew.  I have never studied the language for a class before, and thus I only have a rudimentary understanding.

    For those who are unaware, in May, I completed a Master of Ministry degree in Bible Exposition, and am currently working on a Master of Divinity degree.  I cannot attain the degree, but will pursue equivalency so that I can earn a Doctor of Ministry degree.  If I continue at the present rate, it will take about seven years to earn a Doctorate.  For the purpose of clarification, my first priority is the church.  Often studies are temporarily set aside because of the demands of the church.  The church will remain my first responsibility and priority.  If at any time I believe that taking classes is a hindrance to this ministry, they will immediately cease.  Sarah, for some reason, wants me to continue, and is the one pushing me to earn a Doctorate degree.

-Pastor Stephen Racite