GRTS Graduates Become Teachers in India
Nov 9, 2008
When Eric and Nicolette Karloski began taking courses at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary they had no idea they would be teaching the courses themselves someday-in India.
“I have always wanted to teach and this opportunity is exactly what I was hoping and praying for,” said Eric, a 2008 GRTS graduate.
It began with a dinner with Nimai Suna, the president of Life Theological Seminary, which is based in Bhubaneshwar, India. After several conversations, Suna invited the Karloskis to teach at the school.
During their one-year teaching contract, Eric is scheduled to teach Old Testament courses and Hebrew exegesis. Nicolette will teach missions courses, New Testament courses and help students on an individual basis with papers and research.
“Learning a new culture and a new language is, for me, one of the most invigorating, thrilling and exhausting things I can do,” said Nicolette, who grew up on the mission field. “Eric and I have both been able to travel overseas before and we know we enjoy adjusting to a new way of living.”
When Nicolette started at GRTS she was very interested in foreign missions work. Her classes with Dr. Dave Livermore, assistant professor of intercultural ministries, greatly influenced her passion for culture and language.
“I love the idea of serving God in another country and sharing his love and grace with people who have not heard,” she said.
Eric had a special interest in the Old Testament and loved classes in that content area, especially those with Dr. Byard Bennett, assistant professor of historical and philosophical theology.
“The GRTS experience allowed me to see dedicated men and women giving themselves both in time and resources to the teaching of the Gospel and in the knowledge of the scriptures,” he said. “They have equipped me for the rest of my life.”
The couple is not sure how long they will stay beyond their one year commitment.
“We are certainly not expecting it to be easy,” said Nicolette. “We both know there will be times of frustration and tears, but it will be worth it.”
