Leon Chechowich and Rob Zapotoski, International Field Representatives of SMS, decided to teach ESL classes to the Belorussian people during the summer months. In many countries, individuals are interested in learning English as a second language, be-cause of technology and commerce.

Both Leon and Rob spent ten days with classes in the city of Gomel, and Leon continued for another ten days in the city of Minsk. They not only taught conversational English, but also built lasting relationships with many of the students.

400 students attended the program in Gomel, Belarus. Rob taught two classes of beginners and Leon taught one class. (The interested students were divided into three groups: beginner, intermediate and advanced.)

311 students filled out a survey and 159 of them indicated that more information about Christianity was desired. 600 students attended the program in the capital city of Minsk. Leon taught two classes of beginners. 472 students completed the survey, and 271 of them desired more information about Christianity.

Teachers are needed, and formal training is not necessary to teach these classes. The intermediate and advanced students only desire to increase their knowledge of the English language, especially current idioms and modern slang. In Gomel there are opportunities to visit the students in their homes or spend some time exploring the sights of the city with them.