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Years ago I developed an email relationship with a couple from Canada that found us on the web. They used to be missionaries in the Philippines and they were very encouraging for the work we’re doing on Eleuthera.
Fast forward a few years later and now Mark and Marie Turner, the couple that we “clicked-with” over the internet are now the new Guidance Counselors for Windermere High School! Not only are they a much needed addition to the school, and dear friends, but Mark also got certified to teach the Bible College classes with me, so now I’ve got some much needed help with that too.
Over a year ago, the Turners decided to take a risk and retire early from their careers in the public school system to invest their experience serving as missionaries. They came to Eleuthera and Emily and I spent some time with them at their cottage.
I remember walking them through my vision for the school and not knowing their background in ministry I mentioned that one of the positions that I was praying to have filled was for a on campus counselor. So many of our students come from broken homes and difficult backgrounds with a lack of positive role models and I fear that we as a faculty are not properly equipped to give them the freedom they might need to process through the journey of adolescence. I enjoy talking with our students, but at the end of the day I’m still part of the school and I think it might be helpful for them to have an “outside” ear to talk to: someone who is not evaluating their grades or behavior, a friend or confidant.
As I mentioned this vision to them, Mark’s eye twinkled and he told me that he has 3 degrees in counseling. I couldn’t believe it. A few days later they visited the campus and I guess now the rest is history.
One problem was we didn’t have any more classroom space, not to mention office space. So we got creative and renovated the old “work-out gym/sports room” to a bedroom and smaller space and with a few weeks labor, couple of cans of paint, wheelbarrow fulls of cement and Mark and Marie’s own touch, they now have one of the nicest offices on campus.
We thank the Lord for bringing us the Turners and all they carry with them. They are such an encouragement. We’re so thankful for their servant spirit and willingness to come and give of themselves to serve the Lord where He leads.