Classes

I finished my third session of class today. Things seem to be going really well. The student's English is a lot better than I was expecting. It seems that they have a harder time speaking it than understanding. I am basing that assumption on the fact that once I understand their questions they prove to have a keen grasp on the material being covered. Today we finished the section on the Bible, and tomorrow we begin Theology Proper.

 

I have about 14 students, most of which have never taken a class at ETC. The ages vary. Some I would guess are still 18 or 19, others are probably in their late 50's. That makes a nice dynamic. As far as being students go, they are pretty typical for a summer school program. They think we have too much reading, too much homework, and don't I know that they have work in other classes too? I am sure they would appreciate your prayers. They seem very interested in learning, and most of them seem to have a good working knowledge of the Bible. I am having a really good time.

 

I was wondering how students would address teachers here. Interestingly enough, they are on a first name basis with all professors, but not for the reasons I would expect. In Ethiopia everybodies second name is actually the name of their father. So there is no such thing as a family name. To call me "Mr. Morehouse" would be very strange for them. As far as they are concerned, Morehouse is the name of my father. So I am simply Raymond. It makes it feel less formal for me, which is nice, even if it doesn't make any difference to them.

 

I also did some serious exploring today in the city, but I will save that for another day.