My wife Joan and I have been adjusting to life here in Chicago since we moved last fall. It has been quite a transition. I have been working towards my MDiv at North Park theological seminary. We are finding our place in Chicago and the community at at North Park. I have found a home at Resurrection Covenant Church which has been a source of joy for me, and has allowed me to continue doing worship ministry from time to time. Joan is expecting our first child in October which is very exciting! We are preparing our hearts and home for the new member of the family, and would appreciate any prayer you can spare.
My classes here at North Park have been wonderful. I have never felt more at home in an academic setting. There is room to learn about God, but also plenty of space to love God. My faith has grown in leaps and bounds since coming here. I have made great friends who have met with me for morning prayer, bible study, times or worship, and theological discussion. There have been times of financial difficulty in some ways, but thanks to the generous support of those who have contributed to the Presidential Scholarship program I have been awarded a full-ride scholarship at the seminary.
I have been helping to earn money to pay for our other expenses by working at a local coffee shop called ipsento, and have been able to develop some great friendships. The coffee shop is owned by a local christian roaster who sees coffee an an opportunity to share the love of Christ with the world. We work directly with farmers to make sure we are giving a fair wage to those involved. We have also worked with the farms to help them develop more sustainable ways to grow, and produce crops that will earn a better return in the market. I am SO excited to be a part of this organization.
This summer Joan and I will be spending a month in Alaska working in the bush at a Bible Camp for many of the youth in Alaska. Alaskan youth are in great need of love. They suffer from some of the highest rates of abuse, and depression. There have been some great strides taken by the Covenant Church there and this camp is one of the ways that love is shown to kids who are in great need of more love. We are so excited to be a part of what is going on there!
Our time here has been a challenge in many ways, but God has continued to provide for our needs. We would cherish any prayers, cards, calls, or e-mails of support.
Grace and Peace be with you,
and Glory to God in all things!
-Billy Kangas
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