N.E.S.T. Christian Education Resource Center

I met with Shake Geotcherian, Director of the Christian Education Resource Center (C.E.R.C.) at the N.E.S.T. Shake is a graduate of the N.E.S.T. with her M.Div. degree and is currently working on her Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.), along with her responsibilities in the C.E.R.C.

The C.E.R.C., which will officially open December 8 when the N.E.S.T. Board of Managers meets, is an answer to prayers. I remember the first time I visited the N.E.S.T. in April, 2006 and seeing the space that was intended for this center. Two of the rooms had been used for a broadcasting center by the Middle East Council of Churches during the civil war. I’ve posted a photo of Dr. Mikhael and I during my first visit in April, 2006 and we were standing in what is now the C.E.R.C. Women’s Room. Last November, 2007 when I visited the shell was complete. The four rooms had been rewired with electrical needs and were freshly tiled and painted. What a delight this visit to see the warm banners welcoming me to walk into the center. The C.E.R.C. is comprised of four rooms total: the Director’s office, the Seminar Room, a Christian Education Resource Room and a Women’s Room.

As Shake explained, many of the local churches lack Christian Education materials or have outdated materials which have been used for many years. The C.E.R.C. will contain current curriculum, resource books and teaching aids that may be used by the local churches.

These churches also rely on volunteers within the church to lead the Sunday Schools and many have not had an opportunity for training. Through the C.E.R.C., these local leaders will have opportunity for training, along with the resources.

Last Friday was the first Consultative Gathering with several local Christian Educators. It was a historical gathering in the journey toward the C.E.R.C. Dr. Mikhael said it was like she was delivering a baby and Director, Shake was the Midwife. The group met in the large Seminar Room and identified needs in the following ministries for which they will plan seminars and workshops through the C.E.R.C. The ministries include:
Children
Youth
Young Adults and Adults
Women
Singles
Each participant signed up for one of the ministry fields and will be part of a team to prepare and present the C.E.R.C. workshops and seminars.

Shake says new resource materials are always a need and she asks churches in the U.S. to consider sending curriculum material that has been used and no longer needed. 
Resource books and books for the Women’s Room are also appreciated. The Women’s Room will contain special resources for women. We are currently looking for books that are for women, by women, about women.

Shake is looking forward to all the opportunities the N.E.S.T. will be about to reach churches through the C.E.R.C. by listening to their needs and helping to fill those needs. Shake Geotcherian is happy to give more information about needs and you may email her directly at: Shake.Geotcherian@theonest.edu.lb OR shake_g@hotmail.com