Serving in Summer: How English Camps Bring Two Cultures Together

Serving in Summer: How English Camps Bring Two Cultures Together 

After another year full of learning, field trips, Covid restrictions, sports, performances, art shows, class trips, and community service, schools all over the world are starting their summer break. For many TeachBeyond members, the summer holiday is a chance to reconnect with their home country. For others, the summer is a chance to better connect with the culture of their host country. But for one member, the summer holiday gives him the opportunity to bring these two cultures together.  

Matt, a TeachBeyond member serving in Eastern Europe, shares how the summer offers new possibilities in his ministry. While the past few years have made international travel quite difficult, Matt was able to make it back to his home in the United States for the month of June. While he is glad for the time to visit with friends and family, Matt says, “I’m most excited about the English camp I'm helping to organize when I travel back overseas in August. Unlike previous years, I’ll be traveling with members from my sending church, who will help run conversation classes as part of the camp’s activities.” 

"I love the work I'm doing, but I’m even more excited to share the experience with my friends and supporters. I love spreading the Gospel in my work, but I also love that I get to lead others into service. In past years, running camps like this has built relationships between the teachers and students that have lasted beyond the camp itself, and volunteers have helped metransport resources like books that are often difficult to find in my host country.”  

While Matt’s story is an exciting one to share, it’s only one small part of the many ministries continuing after the school year ends. We hope that all our members, wherever they may be, have a chance to recharge, refocus, and give thanks to the Glory of God for all His wonders.