Dear Friends and Partners,
It is with great sorrow that we inform you of our resignation as missionaries with United World Mission, effective August 15, 2009. This means that our hoped-for return to Costa Rica and Seminario ESEPA has been put on hold for now.
Our decision to leave United World Mission, an agency which embodies our vision and values, has been one of the most difficult choices we have had to make as a couple. Nevertheless, after much prayer, counsel, and consideration we feel that the financial obstacles that we face in order to be able to serve in Latin America, coupled with the needs of each member of our growing family make it untenable for us to continue in our present capacity.
It is for this reason that I (Kelly) have accepted a position as Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies at LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas. This position will bring us some needed financial stability, while also allowing us to continue to serve in theological education and cross-cultural missions (albeit in a more limited capacity). To our surprise, LeTourneau University contacted us after a period of time in which we were making special pleas to God for guidance and provision. In light of this, and with the support of United World Mission and our home church, we went forward with the interview process, seeking to discern whether this was God’s will and provision for us at this time. While we do not pretend to understand fully how this new direction fits with our desire to be in Costa Rica, we are confident that God has brought us to this place, we are grateful for His provision, and we remain hopeful that this will somehow open new doors for us in Latin America (Prov. 16:1). In the meantime, we are excited about the ministry opportunities at LeTourneau, especially as the institution seeks to develop partnerships in Central and South America.
We wish to express our profound gratitude for your support and service to our entire family over the past seven years. You have been the hands and feet of Jesus for us, and you have played a huge role in shaping and encouraging us, and in enabling us to minister to others.
We will continue to be advocates for United World Mission and Seminario ESEPA in our new capacity, and at present we are seeking to find ways in which we can continue to work together in projects of mutual interest. We look forward to seeing what God unfolds in the future, and we invite you to continue to check-in with us on our blog. Additionally, we hope to continue to receive updates from you.
Over the next several weeks we will be transitioning to Texas. We would love to connect with you and answer any questions you may have.
With grief and gratitude,
The Liebengoods
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