Dear friend and mission teammate,
Second quarter reaches its count down here at Fuller. It's been very intense and blessed for us since last August here at Pasadena, Los Angeles.
Fuller has over 4,000 students from numerous ethnic groups and nationalities, although predominantly North-American, Asian and Latino ones. We feel thankful and privilege to study in this interdenominational, open and biblically and academically sound school. Very thankful as well to each and everyone of you helping make all this learning and equipping possible so we can serve better the Lord and his kingdom purposes. If you are interested on hearing more details on what am I studying, writing, please don't hesitate to ask.
As you know we are only devoting a full school year to in campus studies. In difference to most of my classmates whom are here to stay longer and take 1 or 2 classes per quarter (lucky friends! ;-), I am taking 4 classes per quarter. This translates as 600 pages of weekly academic, thick readings and almost daily writing of papers (from 120 to 3,000 words, with high academic demand). Except for a 16 credits, the remaining 64 credits are classes I'm taking in English, mostly Theology units. Barely above water, but joyful and thankful.
Fuller has over 4,000 students from numerous ethnic groups and nationalities, although predominantly North-American, Asian and Latino ones. We feel thankful and privilege to study in this interdenominational, open and biblically and academically sound school. Very thankful as well to each and everyone of you helping make all this learning and equipping possible so we can serve better the Lord and his kingdom purposes. If you are interested on hearing more details on what am I studying, writing, please don't hesitate to ask.
As you know we are only devoting a full school year to in campus studies. In difference to most of my classmates whom are here to stay longer and take 1 or 2 classes per quarter (lucky friends! ;-), I am taking 4 classes per quarter. This translates as 600 pages of weekly academic, thick readings and almost daily writing of papers (from 120 to 3,000 words, with high academic demand). Except for a 16 credits, the remaining 64 credits are classes I'm taking in English, mostly Theology units. Barely above water, but joyful and thankful. 
Lidia is well. You know the silent tuff warrior in her. Sacrificing more than usual (the support of family and friends back home) guarding the fort in a cross cultural experience with four little "hearthquakes". The kiddos are well. Lucia, Josue and Samuel fully integrated in a public school and with friends at neighborhood and church. Lucia will be speaking and reading in English before she does Spanish. Even Azarías uses words in English, specially if there's a cookie around. They will return to Spain June 22, and I will stay to complete a couple summer intensive classes. July 15, God willing, and if we gather enough funds I will have completed 50 of the 80 credits of the Master of Theology. Our hope and purpose is to take one class per quarter from Fall 2016 combined with returning back to battle field with AIA West Europe so I can complete it in the next 2 years.
Thanks so much for your trust, engagement, prayers and generous and faithful care. Every day we are more assured this venture is a great investment in our family and our capacity to love and serve you and alongside you the coming years. How exciting! Please, pray with us to be good stewards to make the most of every day and opportunity, and for the resources we need to complete this formation journey well. Outrageously grateful yours in Christ and until the nets are full,
Rubén, Lidia, Samuel, Josué, Lucía y Azarías
With our dear beloved Ross & Karen Fitchner. At new years I went to watch the movie Concussion. Ross, who has an NFL champion ring (Browns, 1966) has a son, Randy (QB coach) who's played 2 and win one NFL Superbowl with the Steelers). Ross's health is speeding down out of all the injuries and concussions from his playing days. Pray for them. We will see them again in June, before the family returns
