Invigorating. Interactive. Investment.
These are words used to describe the Hope ESL ministry by volunteer Jim McCalip.
“Aren’t Christians and Jews the same?” asked a Hope ESL student during class. What an opening that is to share the good news of how the one true God became man in Jesus and gave himself on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins. A Hope ESL student asked this question in two different classes, which created the opportunity to share God’s story with the students. This is just one example of the doors that God has opened for the team to share the gospel while serving our community. On 30 Monday nights during the school year, Hope ESL teachers instruct adults from over 15 different nations in English, American culture and the Christian faith. Birthdays are recognized each month by singing “Happy Birthday” and giving a DVD of the Life of Jesus film to the students. Christmas is celebrated together with a potluck with food from around the globe. We are able to rejoice in the birth of the Savior and give each family a Bible to read the Christmas story for themselves. At the end of each year, each student received a certificate indicating the number of hours attended and has heard the testimony of God’s love from one of our Indian church members.
Jim asks those considering getting involved to be praying that the Holy Spirit would guide them because the ministry interacts mostly with non believers, but it’s an amazing opportunity to share our faith and the love of Christ with people in our community. If you are interested in learning more about this ministry, please email hope.esl@mbbcirving.org.
