METC MODULE COMPLETED DESPITE OBSTACLES

Middle East Theological College (METC) has used a modular approach since its inception in 2022. It isn’t the easiest or best, but it is the most workable for our students who also work in our ministry. Each module has been unique and had its share of blessings and surprises. But no module has ever approached the one just completed in terms of challenges.

Relocating the METC Summer Module

After canceling our last module due to a regional conflict, we feared we might miss the scheduled summer module this year. Missing two modules is a half-year’s loss, and most of our students are less than a year from graduation. We decided to hold a module outside the country, but close enough for our students and team to come, and with airport access for those coming to teach and lead.

We found a suitable location, and for the last two weeks, we held our courses in another country, away from everyone’s home and language. There was not a day that went by without unforeseen obstacles to overcome, so much so that we all realized these were not coincidences but spiritual warfare. The enemy who has held sway in this region does not want a small cadre of trained and qualified leaders to strengthen the church in Iraq.

I give thanks to God for students and staff who did not give up. I taught Advanced Sermon Preparation, and Dr. Austin Surls came to us in a completely untested situation and delivered a brilliant class on the Old Testament Pentateuch. Every day, as we finished, Kathy and I said, “We finished another day” and praised God for it. We met new Christian friends here, learned about challenges in this location, and most of all, are one module away from our first graduate!

– Craig Miller