In mid-winter of 2017, five others gathered with me, in order to discuss my experiences in Malawi; but most especially, to consider a funding-stream for the publication and distribution of other resources for Malawian pastors. During our discussions, I heard: “At least for a time, it is important for you, Stan, to teach what you have written. We need to secure monies for your traveling between here and there, and for underwriting the cost of retreat sites -- which neither these pastors nor their churches can afford.” Upon reflection, I agreed with this assessment.
From that meeting a structural focus emerged, which we call, Shepherd to Shepherds, for such is my desire: to care for and encourage shepherds. The heart of this desire centers upon pastors shepherding within impoverished settings: those settings, which are not blessed with the abundance of resources we Americans view as normative. However, the Scriptural resources I endeavor to write might also prove helpful for bi-vocational pastors in Montana, Alaska, and/or Mississippi.
Since our 2017 mid-winter meeting, I have now taught at eight different pastors' conferences in Romania; six pastors’ conferences in Uganda; and two conferences in Malawi. In each of these, as we study the Scriptures, I encourage pastors to see more clearly, and to think more deeply, all the while encouraging personal application for themselves—and not just for their congregations. Moreover, prayer, thankful praise, meaningful relating, rest, and good food are equally important facets of these moments of retreat.
I/we have now written The Sent One (a working resource for John’s Gospel), published in both English and Romanian, as well as The Great Opening, (a working resource for Mark’s Gospel), published in English and Lango (of northern Uganda). These can be purchased on Amazon, and both are Kindle-friendly—but to those of Romania and Uganda, they are given freely.
In 2024 I will return to Romania in April, and to Uganda in September. I/we will also rewrite and republish The Sent One, a full consideration of all of John’s Gospel.