November 7, 2007

A Note of Appreciation

A special note of appreciation to Maria Lombart, the primary writer and editor of "Weimar College News" during Winter and Spring Quarters 2007.  A gifted writer, she has done a fantastic job of keeping all of us informed of the latest interesting happenings here at Weimar College! Maria is one of our star alumnus, having attended both the academy and the college.  Maria has earned 3 degrees at Weimar College and now serves as the College’s Registrar. Thank you Maria! You are much appreciated!

 

New Staff Join Our Team

  A number of talented individuals have joined our dedicated Weimar College teaching staff.  Coming from all over the world, we welcome each to our campus.

   Dr. Ron du Preez is professor and chairman of the Religion Department. Born in South Africa, Dr. du Preez holds doctorates in both Theology in Ethics and Ministry in Missions. He has taught at both Solusi University in Zimbabwe and Southern Adventist University in Tennessee and served with the General Conference Biblical Research Institute.  Well-traveled and a prolific author, his experience as pastor, professor, and missionary will greatly benefit his students here at the college.      

   Also joining the Religion Department faculty is Andy Im.  Previously, Andy led out in SPARC (Students Preparing Adventists for the Return of Christ), a group that was instrumental in the formation of GYC (Generation of Youth for Christ – formerly known as General Youth Conference).  Andy is nearing completion of his Masters in Religion from Southern Adventist University. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Andy is serving as the College Men's Dean.  His enthusiasm for teaching and mentoring students is proving to be a real blessing.

   Cosmin Ritivoiu, the new Outreach Director and English teacher, was born in Romania and grew up in southern California. He earned a BA in English Literature from California State University and continued on into a masters program. After spending one year teaching English in Korea, Cosmin attended Amazing Facts Center of Evangelism. His goal: that students' spiritual lives will be enriched this year through their study of English and through participation in the outreach programs.

   Coming to us from Canada, Hanna Kim is our new ESL teacher. She studied at the University of Toronto, completing a double major in Sociology and Fine Arts History. Last year she was part of CAMPUS (Center for Adventist Ministry to Public University Students), a campus ministries training program based in Michigan. Hanna has always wanted to be a teacher and was attracted by Weimar College’s commitment to upholding the principles of true education.

 

Fall Week of Prayer

   Weimar campus was privileged to have Dr. Tim Riesenberger as the guest speaker for Fall Week of Prayer September 24-28. The College and Academy met jointly for each meeting. Morning meetings  were held in the College chapel and evening meetings were held in the Academy Center. Dr. Riesenberger presented powerful messages that centered on the life of Christ. Fourteen individuals chose to be rebaptized.

   An agape feast was held on Friday night. The evening included a light meal, singing, special music, a communion service, and the final message by Dr. Riesenberger. Our hearts were stirred as the 14 students who had committed to rebaptism gave their testimonies. Dr. Riesenberger reminded us that we each have a testimony to share with the world. Week of Prayer inspired us all to seek a closer relationship with Jesus.


Fall R&R  

Thursday, Oct 25, Weimar College students and staff headed to Camp Wawona, located in Yosemite National Park, to enjoy some restful time in nature. The majestic mountains, falling autumn leaves and balmy temperatures combined to create a splendid weekend. Several different groups spent Friday trekking by waterfalls, enjoying vistas or touring the Yosemite Valley. Throughout the weekend, morning and evening worships featuring student speakers proved to be a real blessing. Sabbath morning services were held around the fireplace in Camp Wawona’s cafeteria. Cosmin Ritivoiu led out in Sabbath School, followed by a message by Andy Im from John 21. That afternoon, after enjoying one of the many scrumptious meals prepared by Linda Horner and Paula Haynes, everyone had the opportunity to walk among the giant sequoias in nearby Mariposa Grove. Seeing the enormous size of these ancient trees was a reminder of God’s amazing creative power. Sunday morning, students and staff divided into groups for a Camp Wawona Work Bee.  Appreciation for the comfortable cabins was shown by splitting and stacking wood, painting a shed, sorting recyclables, and raking pine needles. Fall R & R was truly a memorable and refreshing time.

 

Backpacking

   October 5, a hardy group of five nature lovers from the college embarked on a weekend backpacking trip into the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains. Undeterred by the forecast for freezing temperatures, the group braved the elements, intent on enjoying time in the wilderness. Although snow forced them to switch from their intended destination to one at a lower elevation, spirits could not be dampened. Camping by Locklaven Lake, the brave backpacking crew was rewarded with a lovely Sabbath full of sunshine.