What’s Next with CrossRoads?

Changes at the CrossRoads

In my previous post, I promised to update you on the changes that have occurred with CrossRoads Samara.  I didn’t expect to feel such resistance to putting this all “out there” for the world to read. It’s not new news by any means. So, I’m still pondering the reason for my hesitation to post. After all, I know that change is usually a good thing.

Well, here it goes…

Samara CrossRoads Closed

After nearly 20 years of active ministry in Samara, and after over a year of prayer and deliberation, we have closed the office of CrossRoads Samara.  This basically means that the official, registered organization has ceased effective earlier this year. We all agreed that the ministry had run its course–and run it well.  But, frankly, none of us is getting any younger. And the program itself had lost its appeal–even met with opposition–in the schools where it was once eagerly received.

However, we are having one more big event, a weekend retreat, to celebrate our work, our relationships, and our impact. We also want to say thank you to the staff, trainers, and teachers who have been so faithful all these years. I have been invited to teach Bible studies, which I’m so blessed to be able to do once again.  The theme of the retreat is “Finishing Well.”  Yes, don’t we all want to do that?

But this isn’t the end.

Not trying to be sappy or anything, but I see it as the beginning. Each day of life, we have the opportunity to live out another page in our “God story” (thanks, Susan Gaddis for that phrase). He is by no means done with me, or with His kingdom work in Samara.

I will be in village churches, rehab centers, homes of friends, lessons of English students, holding new babies, comforting those who have lost loved ones, and whatever the Lord surprises me with.

I’m positive that whatever is “next” will be amazing.