Now that the second semester is over, I have more time to write and update everyone.

First, some minor changes in our immediate plans. I (Nollie) might go back to the U.S. in a week or two. Because I have some student loans to pay off, I have a temporary job prospect in the SF Bay Area beginning next month. Evelyn and Rachel will go back May 27th as originally planned. Also, we might stay until mid-September, since Lem’s graduation has moved from June to September.

I gave final exams to three of my classes, and reflection papers to the to the other two. With patient teaching and diligent studies, I’m anticipating that they will get better and better as they progress through their years of studies. The seminary is also handicapped with its lack of library and financial resources, so I have to photocopy the assigned readings for my students. And in 1-1/2 semesters, I have come to love teaching them.

I’m still helping a new federation of churches (teaching and preaching) called the United Covenant Reformed Churches in the Philippines (UCRCP). Three churches formed the charter membership, but there are three more which are interested in joining in the near future. Once a month, I take a five-hour bus ride to a church north of Manila to teach on Saturdays and preach on Sundays. Sometimes, I preach at another church 1-1/2 hours south of our place.

Since Rachel’s school opened its aquatics facility, I have been able to find time to do laps at the pool three times a week. So Evelyn and I are getting some needed exercise.

P.S. In the future, I’ll be setting up a Weblog for all our e-mail partners to be able to read and also send comments to us. I’ll e-mail you the Web address later.