The Wholistic Development Center (WDC) is preparing for graduation! Spring commencement is an exciting time for time for high school and university students around the world. But for the students of WDC, graduation is extra-special.

In the country where WDC works, any kind of evangelism is prohibited, and there are few Christian churches, especially outside urban areas. Children growing up in villages experience many contrasts. In some ways, nothing has changed in centuries—families eat only what they can grow, hunt, and forage. Survival is a daily struggle. One WDC student said visiting his home village is like going back in time. On the flip side, outside influences are beginning to make life even more difficult in many villages. Drug use has sky-rocketed, and in some areas nearly every man, woman, and child is addicted. Increasing access to mobile phones and the internet have brought more awareness of life outside the village, and, as a result, most young people move to cities as soon as they are able, creating a generation gap. These are the young people that WDC exists to serve—those from the poorest areas, who have had little opportunity for either education or discipleship.

When the class of 2019 arrived on campus two years ago, many had never been outside their villages before, multiple students were addicted to drugs, and about half had not had the opportunity to hear and understand the gospel. Some students apply to WDC simply as a way to escape their villages, but aren’t really willing to give up old habits or do the work required. At least six students dropped out (and were replaced) in the first couple of weeks, with a few more leaving as time went on. But for the twenty students who’ve stuck with it, WDC has provided life-changing opportunities. They’ve spent two years studying English, vocational skills, and especially the word of God.

While we’re proud of all our graduates, the faculty of WDC shared a few stories of students* who deserve a special shout out:

  • MOST IMPROVED: When Ya arrived at WDC, she had a really poor work ethic. One of the things the girls study is house-cleaning (a very useful skill, but hardly anyone’s favorite subject). The course includes an “internship,” cleaning in various homes. Ya’s host family was very unhappy with her work and complained to the teacher. The teacher challenged Ya, and even though the correction was difficult for her to accept at first, she has made big improvements. Her humility in accepting criticism and her desire to work as unto the Lord are markers of her spiritual growth. She has also been bold in her faith—refusing to participate in spirit worship when she goes home to visit, and teaching her family about Christianity.
  • MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED: Ji was one of six students who came to WDC from his ethnic group. Of the group, Ji was the rebel. He got in trouble more than once during his first semester for getting drunk and using drugs. But God’s hand was on Ji, and even when the other five students from his tribe decided school was not for them and quit, he stuck it out. He has grown so much in his faith and is on his way to a four-year Bible school in a neighboring country!
  • HARDEST WORKER: Chen was hooked on drugs when he arrived at WDC. Even after accepting Christ, the journey has been a struggle for Chen. But his attitude has completely changed over the past two years. He works hard in his studies. And when he went home last Christmas, he managed to convince all his non-believing, drug-addicted friends to join him at church for a multi-day Christmas celebration.

As we celebrate and send off the WDC graduating class of 2019, we’re asking God to guide their steps and protect their young faith as they move on to careers, marriage, ministry, and further studies.

*Student names have been changed