How do you turn a potato into a porcupine? That’s exactly what children in the country of Georgia are learning today in their English class. This is their second lesson about fruits and vegetables. They’re learning the names of common vegetables as they transform them into animals and modes of transportation.

Ginta, their teacher, uses interactive teaching methods to keep them engaged, and even includes their parents in the action. They’re studying a variety of topics ranging from numbers to colors.

“We just enjoy. Even if someone doesn’t know something we just show the color and remind them how to pronounce it correctly. They enjoy it.”

Originally from Latvia, Ginta came to Georgia to spend a year volunteering at this Global Mission Urban Center of Influence. She started a hands-on English class for children; and she’s very proud of her students’ creations!

“Maybe I can show something…(runs off camera and back on camera with something in hand)...From one of the lessons when we learned about animals. We made butterflies like this. And a previous lesson...pause…(runs off camera again and back with another paper)...And a previous lesson when we learned about fruits and vegetables, we made stamps for lemon and pepper, like this!”

But living in a different culture can bring certain challenges and adjustments.

“It’s very hard for me you know. You are from another country, and they don’t know you. In the beginning they were watching what I’m doing, but now they start to be friends with me. Today even, a few of them said ‘teacher we love you!’ It’s really nice. And parents, it’s the same for them. In the beginning they were very distant and afterwards they’re starting to trust.”

Ginta has gotten to know the students through these programs, and finds it easier to share a hopeful message when a relationship has been established.

“Not just be a teacher, but to be friends with them. I really hope there is a possibility to tell them about Jesus, somebody who really loves them.”

Fifteen year old Simon has been coming to Ginta’s English classes over the last few months. After many questions and conversations, Simon is eager to study the Bible and the Adventist message.

“I’m interested in Christ’s second coming.”

“I’m going through the Bible lessons in preparation for baptism.”

“My life has changed.”

Through these programs, about 15 to 20 people in this town started Bible studies with Gotcha, a Global Mission pioneer, and a small group meets each Sabbath.

Ginta is encouraged to share the love of Jesus with the community through English classes, despite the challenges.

Please pray Ginta, as her develops friendships with students and parents in Georgia. Thank you for your continued support of Global Mission projects like these.