Retired Teachers Offer Three Months of Service

Originally published in Veritas View newsletter, Spring 2016

Ron and Jacque Maurer came to Sighisoara for the first time in May, 2015. They wanted to observe Veritas programs to see if it would be possible for Trevecca University (Nashville, TN) students to study in a crosscutural setting as part of the Romanian Studies Program. Ron was teaching social work at Trevecca at the time, and has since retired. So instead of sending students, Ron and Jacque felt God’s call to come to Sighisoara themselves for a three-month term – from March to May, 2016.

Ron and Jacque’s experiences in education and living and working in other countries made them a perfect fit for the needs of Veritas at this time. They served in Japan as missionaries with the Church of God, Anderson, Ind. for almost 10 years and also worked on short-term missions assignments in Trinidad and Tobago and in Kisumu, Kenya. 

Jacque brought her 40 years of teaching experience to the kids’ clubs at Veritas. She provided teacher training, taught lessons, and interacted with the children. With new leaders in the Kids’ Club program whose social work experience was with individual children, rather than educational activities for children in groups, Jacque’s insights and expertise were very welcome. 

Ron’s experiences as a social worker, teacher and a pastor were put to good use in Sighisoara. He assisted with the Veritas Disabilities’ Club and taught a class called Pastoral Care and Counseling, which met for five weeks for four hours each week. Veritas staff were able to participate in this class as part of their continuing education. About half of the 26 students were enrolled in coursework through EuNC (European Nazarene College) and took the course to fulfill requirements toward being licensed by the Nazarene Church. Several other local students work for another social work agency in Sighisoara. Being able to combine theological training with practical counseling techniques benefitted all groups of students. 

During their time in Sighisoara Ron and Jacque enjoyed “being a small part of a great community outreach serving an underserved population in Romania”. Of course they also enjoyed visiting some of the ancient castles and fortified churches in Romania, making friends and building relationships with people from Veritas and the local churches, and participating in Monday night dinners with missionaries and volunteers from different countries. 

Ron and Jacque say, “We would definitely encourage other retirees to come and experience Sighisoara, Romania! Bring your work and life experiences and see what God can do with them. The blessings are many!”