Diamond in the Rough

Is the GDQ International Christian School a diamond in the rough?  Well, Tirana, Albania is not a likely candidate for the top 100 most beautiful cities in the world.  In fact, Albania's capital city might more likely be in the top 100 of the more "rough around the edges" cities.  And, while the GDQ School, itself, may not win a beauty contest for its physical appearance either, it sure does qualify for beauty on the inside.

Albania does have some reasons for boasting, however.  Since the fall of communism in the early 1990's, there have been gains in the restoration of a once closed city culture.  Along with a scattering of historical ruins and a scenic Adriatic coast in greater Albania, Tirana actually can now boast about its mimic of western style malls and even an attempt to walmart-ise (sic) some new services and products.

On the outskirts of this congested city, ensconced behind the sheltered protection of brick and mortar walls and gated entrance, lies one of Tirana's jewels.  The GDQ Schol exists because the Lord has enabled dedicated and committed volunteers from several different nations to serve in pedagogical ministry.  Over 100 children, also from many different countries, grades K through 12, are being taught by a staff of qualified and devoted individuals.  The majority of students are from missionary families currently serving in and around Tirana.  We already stated that it might not win a contest for outward beauty, but a glance at the inside heart of the school reveals a spirit of unity as the entire staff acknowledges Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. 

What a blessing to be a part of such a providential enterprise.  Though the work is demanding and the classroom temperatures exhaustingly hot (or cold in the winter), one cannot help but be humbled and in awe of such a dynamic Christ-centered ministry.  How satisfying it is to be part of a school where teaching from a Biblical world view is not only allowed, but is the focus across the curriculum.

GDQ must continually seek volunteer teachers to fill classroom voids.  Please lift this particular issue up in prayer. 

(Pictures show our students in class and a lively chapel time.)