The Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:27b-28
Your prayers and support of my ministry at Black Forest Academy impact the lives of so many students and families. God continues to show his faithfulness each year, and I am thankful that you share in this ministry with me!
Small Group: Seven beautiful, godly women are launching out on new adventures this summer, and while I am sad to see them go, I am also so proud of each one of them. I have had the opportunity of co-leading this group of girls for the past four years. Two of the girls have been with Libby and I for all four years and all have been in it for at least the past two, which has allowed us to build strong bonds of trust with one another. We have watched some of these girls grow from chattering freshmen to inquisitive seniors. They have demonstrated a desire to know the truth, to seek God, and serve him with their lives. Here is what small group has meant to them:
"Both you and Libby have really encouraged me and I feel at home with this group."
"I have loved being in your group these last 2 years. I have loved listening to what advice you have to give, and I have really taken away a lot."
"I just want to let you know that you displayed the love of Christ to me in a time that I didn't feel it... My walk with Christ is by no means perfect, but I am growing so much... You opened doors of freedom and hope for me."
"Thanks for leading this group in a way that was focused both on God and on supporting each other!"
"I will look back to these years and will be forever grateful for Tuesday nights with you!"
Resource: "We were never sure he would finish high school, so we have not yet made any plans for what might come next." Mr. N answered, when I asked if they had any ideas for what Adam* might do after he graduates in a few years. We were looking over what classes he needs to take next year along with how he could make up some missing credits. Mr. N went on to explain that prior to this year at BFA, a high school diploma had never looked like a certainty. Adam is a student with autism, he has a wonderful sense of humor, towers over his other classmates, and sometimes falls asleep in class. Before this year he had no real desire for school. The first time I met the family was about this time last year as they toured the school. They stopped by my office as I was doing a final year-end cleaning. While Adam's dad asked questions about the school and the support we could offer his son, Adam stood quietly, looking off in a different direction. He looked at me briefly to answer a question before quickly diverting his eyes again. Now, when he sees me in the hall he smiles and nods his head in acknowledgment. Mr. and Mrs. N continually express their amazement at the difference they see in their son. Adam now puts forth the effort to complete his school work. He is happy to have a group of friends at school and joins most school-wide events, though in his own way. He has even decided to take online summer classes to ensure that he can stay with his classmates, since he is a little behind in credits from his previous school. Adam and his parents may soon begin discussing plans for after high school.
Giving Summer Project:
You can help make a difference in the lives of students like Adam. Your summer gift will help cover the cost of an online class on autism from UC Davis as well as a German language course. The cost of the autism class is $700 and the German class which is ongoing is $150 a month. I would like to be able to take two additional autism classes over the next year which will allow me to earn a Professional Concentration in Autism from UC Davis. The purpose for the German course is to increase my knowledge of the language and engagement with the community.
Make an eternal impact with a monthly pledge or one-time financial contribution by clicking on this link or entering the web address: give.teachbeyond.org/support/rebecca-swanson/ You can designate giving for Rebecca Swanson or account number 40335.
Please Pray...
For my small group girls as they enter university, bible school, and jobs; may their faith in Christ grow even as it is challenged by the world.
For Caroline and her family, I have two more appointments with her in July; may God open her heart to the gospel.
For summer courses in autism and German, may they go well and benefit my ministry here.
For preparation in taking on the role of Academic Support Supervisor, overseeing the Resource, ELL and Discovery Programs next year.
For Libby and her husband as they move to serve in a school in Japan.
For those who are leaving BFA as they say good-bye and transition to what God has next for them.
For the new staff raising support and planning to arrive here in July and August, as this can be a stressful time.
Praise God, my parents and grandma are settling into their new place in Arizona.
Summer Snapshot
Place: Kandern, Germany
Professional Development: Autism class through UC Davis Extension
Personal Development: Online German Course
Ministry Development: Preparing for my new role as Academic Support Supervisor:
Summer Fun: Hiking, Rest, Friends
*student's name changed