He can use you

Stephanie’s story begins in her home country of France, where she was a teacher for the French Education Ministry. Stephanie wanted a life change and headed to America, but first she needed to learn English. The fastest way to learn English was to take classes in Canada.

The school she attended was just a few blocks away from Cross of Life, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. She soon began attending worship regularly, and even attended Bible information classes (BIC). Without a job, she would soon have to return to France without completing BIC. A couple days before her visa expired Stephanie accepted a teaching position at the French consulate in Chicago. She could now remain in North America.

While teaching in Chicago, Stephanie attended Crossroads Lutheran Church. She also completed her BIC and became a confirmed member.

As a teacher in France, I receive two months of vacation every year. It’s a great time to relax, but much more fulfilling to serve God and others.

I looked up online for a vacation Bible school and found Faith In Action. I didn’t know if I was qualified to be a useful volunteer, but I contacted the KW office and expressed my interest. I was thrilled when they said yes.

I flew to Escanaba, Mich. in August 2010 and had a wonderful time there. I felt like part of a family. Every morning we prepared Bible lessons for the afternoon. We served these kids who needed to know more about our awesome God. The children were very involved. I was proud of them during the Sunday service. They sang with all their hearts. On that last day, we had so much fun that nobody, children and adults alike, wanted to leave. I learned a lot from the kids, and would love to do it again. I was refreshed, renewed, and full of joy.

Since I was not fluent in English, I was a little scared that I would be limited in what I could do. But even if you think you are not qualified to serve, God can use you and get you over your obstacles.

Stephanie

The rest of the story:
Two unchurched families came to VBS every day. Both attended worship for the closing service and the family picnic. One mom said of her daughter, “Susie just had to come to sing today. Stephanie was depending on her to help them sing praises to God.”

Rev. Paul Doletzky in Escanaba tells us little Susie and her family are now worshipping with their congregation and he is hopeful Mom and Dad will soon begin Bible information classes.

How exciting for us to know that new Christians, like Stephanie, are willing to put their faith in action! God works in wonderful ways to bring souls to himself.