Letter from Oy Mooi (received in July 2008)

Dear friends in CBC:

 

Many of you may be aware that for several years, I have returned annually to teach Christian education courses at various seminaries in West and East M'sia. During those times, I have earnestly sought the Lord about future placement. While I have enjoyed my lifestyle and work in Chicago, there was a growing conviction and leading to return to M'sia. This past summer, I spent two months teaching at Sabah Theological Seminary [STS] and its extension program in Labuan island, off the coast of Borneo. This was my third consecutive year guest teaching at STS. I was impressed with STS vision to train the indigenous people of Sabah and Sarawak in Malay [BM] to pastor in their village community, to equip students from the 20/40 window and throughout Borneo.

 

In August 2009, I would have celebrated 21 years of residence in Chicago; symbolically and spiritually, it spells the reaching of adulthood, also the start of a new chapter in life. I have accepted a full-time teaching position at STS, to start in September, 2009, with three months intensive study of Malay [BM] in Kuala Lumpur. It is my hope that by January 2010, I would be sufficiently equipped to teach the indigenous students. Also required to teach in the English department with potential to play a role in South East Asia School of Theology [SEAGST], and Association for Theological Education in South East Asia [ATESEA].

 

To me, this 'new chapter' is a demonstration of God's grace upon my life, and to all who will earnestly and humbly search and seek His ways. Romans 12:2, 'Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.' NLT.

 

The start of a new chapter in life needs prayer in order to bring everything to fulfillment in His time as we face new [bigger] challenges. Even as you rejoice with me would you pray for me?

 

 Move and transition. Though I do not have much possessions, please pray that moving of 'stuff' and transition back to M'sia/KK to go forward smoothly. If all goes well, I plan to leave Chicago area in mid-August 2009.

 

Time-management. Discipline and focus to use remaining time in Chicago and its wonderful research facilities to design and prepare future courses.

 

Closure. Timely handing over of responsibilities at my work place and Korean church, and a happy season finale to some close friendships in Chicago.

 

Language study. To be equipped to teach in BM. I look forward to seeing more of you, more often!

Blessings,

Saik Oy Mooi

A member of CBC prior to her moving to Chicago, USA.