Words from friend on COVID-19: Egypt
From the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo
DISTANCE LEARNING PLATFORM SHINES AMID CRISIS
When ETSC launched its online distance learning program, no one imagined what far-reaching consequences would flow from this decision. The original goal was to make theological education available to students unable to travel to Cairo. It has certainly accomplished that goal, as a significant number of students take courses online. In the face of the coronavirus crisis, Dr. Hani Hanna, Academic Dean and Professor of Systematic Theology, now describes the move as prophetic and gives thanks to God that the Seminary acted in faith to provide this learning platform. “We acted in faith in response to the church’s need. We stand open to the Lord’s guidance as we learn to discern the signs of times,” he said. The use of the electronic platform currently enables ETSC students of all programs to continue their studies online allowing faculty and students to remain with their families and to practice social distancing.
Since the online platform has been in place for some time, ETSC has been able to respond to the current crisis with reasonable effectiveness, but there are technical issues. Some students do not have access to the necessary internet speed to be able to share in the class discussions, and everyone misses the energy provided by face to face interaction. As Professor Dr. Darren Kennedy observes, “Our students really want to grow and learn, and this makes all the difference in the face of these challenges.”
JOIN US IN PRAYER
We unite to face a most challenging time. Virtually every country has been stricken with the coronavirus. Its impact is being felt physically, economically and psychologically. The faculty, staff, and students of the Evangelical Theological Seminary invite you to join them in prayer for our world. Please join us in prayer for the following requests:
That God will move in our lives to draw us together as families, and that we will awaken from this awkward time with new eyes to appreciate those we love and to recognize what is truly important in our lives.
That God will heal our world from the coronavirus and give wisdom and skill to the scientists who are working feverishly to find a vaccine and a cure.
That God will protect the medical personnel on the front lines of fighting this scourge and keep them safe from harm as they risk their lives to save others.
That God will work in our churches, both in Egypt and around the world, to provide spiritual sustenance and strength to people struggling to overcome the hardships brought on by the virus and its attendant challenges.
That God will comfort those who have lost beloved ones and work in the lives of those who suffer deprivation because of lost jobs or those who must work in high-risk situations.
That God will continue to provide for the needs of ETSC as it advances its educational enterprise striving to continue its mission to equip pastors and leaders for the church in Egypt and the Middle East through its online platform.