I hope all of my readers had a wonderful Christmas. The idea of the light of Christ shining in the darkness has particular relevance here in Lithuania, both because of the long winter nights and because of the dark period of Communism that tried — and failed! — to overcome the light.
I wanted to let me readers know that my family and I will be leaving Lithuania at the beginning of January. We had planned to be here through the spring semester, but our funding has run out. LCC asks its faculty members to raise their own salary due to the financial situation of the college. We have been working as missionaries through the Episcopal church. Unfortunately, our fund raising last summer was not as successful as it needed to be. In particular, two grants totaling $9000 that we had gotten in previous years did not come through, which left us with a sizable shortfall. We tried a number of ways to make up the difference, but were not able to do so.
So, we will be leaving here around Epiphany and moving to Massachusetts to live with Stephanie’s parents. I still have several applications for jobs next fall that are outstanding, so I am hopeful that I will be able to return to teaching then. In the meantime, I will be looking for short term work. If anyone needs a top rate teacher and Old Testament professor for one semester, you know where to find me.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here at LCC. I hope the students have learned half as much as I have. I will miss everyone here: faculty, staff, and students. It has been an very good place to work. I would like to think that my legacy will live on, as one of my students is planning to become a biblical scholar. I am especially sorry that I will no longer have the chance to watch her grow as a scholar and a person.
For those of you who are college professors, LCC is always looking for people to teach short term. If you have a sabbatical and would like to spent it in Eastern Europe, make sure you contact them. For instance, I know they suddenly have a need for a biblical scholar next semester.
On December 26th, 2006 at 4:09 pm
Kevin, You should be very proud of your work as OT professor and missionary at LTC. Let’s be in touch via email upon your return. —SLC
On December 28th, 2006 at 6:15 am
Kev, I’m sorry to hear that this is happening. I know you’ve worked really hard, and that your students will miss you dearly! On the selfish side, I’m glad to hear you’re returning to MA, at least for a little while. Close to me! What will happen with the pup dog?
On December 28th, 2006 at 11:35 am
Karamat will continue to stay with my mom, at least until we get settled. Stephanie’s parents don’t want to have a dog there, so we will have to wait to see where we end up.
On January 3rd, 2007 at 6:02 pm
Dear Kevin,
Happy New Year! Just learned that you have to leave Lithuania early and unplanned. Sorry to hear that–I can empathize! I trust the transition will go smoothly and that you’ll soon find a teaching post in the US. Paula and I will be keeping you, Stephanie, Duncan and Emma in our prayers.
peace,
Darrin