Teachers learn too

Monica Shank, a young, white North American, was suddenly left in charge of an energetic class of sixth graders at the Naledi Education Centre in Gaberone, Botswana. With little curriculum to guide her, only one set of textbooks for the teacher, and exams around the corner, Monica set to work adapting lesson plans, creating review games, and assessing student’s abilities.

Although she was there to teach, Monica discovered that she too was learning. The overworked faculty was exhausted from teaching and creating exams while coping with their own personal challenges of daily living. The students, many with fragile home and family lives, often seemed distracted by priorities other than studying their lessons.

“This environment and the unique challenges of my responsibilities reaffirmed the necessity of leaving all to the power of God. It required a kind of patience and sensitivity for which my North American education experiences could never fully prepare me,” wrote Monica in her final report.

Monica stayed in Botswana for three months, taking on additional volunteer assignments with a young adult organization doing HIV/AIDS awareness work, and working with local congregations in various ministry initiatives. “I’m excited to see where God calls me as I continue to walk with more of a servant’s attitude and open heart,” she concludes.

You can help support Mennonite Church Canada’s Witness Intern ministry, for young adults and at the same time help indigenous students, church youth groups, and young adults as they seek Jesus’ way of bringing healing and hope to their people.

“I learned how to take a deep breath and discard what I saw as an urgent agenda … for those whose lives have held greater challenges than solving fractions for the next day’s test.” - Monica Shank, Mennonite Church Canada Witness Intern

You can help

• Your gift of $100 to Witness ministries helps provide service opportunities to young adults. #71001010

Giving is easy

• Click on the “Donate Now” button (specify the gift code in the box, “Would you like to send a message to Mennonite Church Canada?”)
• Call 1-866-888-6785 and tell us your preference.

Contributions over and above this need will go to support other life-giving Mennonite Church Canada Witness.