A letter from Bill Yoder in Thailand
December 2o1o
Dear Friends and Family,
Another year has flown. I continue to think since retirement that I will write more than one general letter a year to keep you informed. Unfortunately time, even though retired, doesn’t permit such largesse. Nevertheless you are all in my thoughts and many of you, as you have increasing health needs, in my prayers.
I was in Ohio and Illinois for a very brief time in September this year. It was a joy to see those whom I could and I’m sorry that I missed so many of you. Travel to the United States is becoming more and more problematic with the weakness of the U.S. dollar, something many of you will not recognize; but for those of us living abroad we are finding our currency of less and less value. The Cleveland Orchestra, compliments of my friend, Bill Blair, the Chicago Symphony and Lyric Opera, compliments of Top and Jane Peterson, were cultural highlights. And, of course, worship at Christ Presbyterian Church in Canton sustains me spiritually for another year or more.
I returned to the General Assembly of the Church of Christ in Thailand. It was a contentious and often disappointing five days. Then back to Chiang Mai and the routine of teaching at the seminary, tending my garden and my dogs and being very involved with life and lives around me.
Health concerns have centered around my lower extremities, from my knees to my toes, and my teeth. Lots of dental problems this year. Anyone else over 65 have similar problems? Generally, however, I’m very well and thankful for each day I have to continue in my service to Jesus Christ and the people He loves here in Chiang Mai.
My son, Spain, surprised and delighted me this year by giving up his career in finance to become Manager of the Prince Royal’s College. His personal sacrifice to serve Jesus Christ and his Church has made me extremely proud. His friends all think he’s crazy. I think he’s been caught by the Spirit.
Pom has finished his master degree in educational administration and continues on as Office Manager at Chiang Mai International School. Several of my grand children are graduating from university this year, including Mary Jane who finished with honors from her university in Japan and now works in the management department of Sumitomo Incorporated of Japan. LJ has graduated in music from Payap University and has returned to Bangkok to try to make his way in the world of music. Not an easy task, I might add.
The political situation in Thailand is quiet. For how long? I don’t know. I don’t feel I can easily comment on this. Please understand. But I’m in no danger and never have been throughout the days of turmoil. Chiang Mai also escaped all the horrible flooding of the past couple of months. I do covet your prayers for this land and these people I have grown to love so much.
I devote much of my life to the McGilvary College of Divinity as I have for the past four years of retirement. I love my teaching. I continue to seek every penny I can to help these wonderful students who are preparing to serve Jesus Christ in his church. I’m also very much involved in the College of Music at Payap University where I have been designated a Senior Advisor. If you wish to help these wonderful causes, you can do so through my home church, Christ Presbyterian Church in Canton, Ohio, who continues to help me in financing my projects. Be clear as to what aspect you wish to help and send your check made out to the church to:
Christ Presbyterian Church
Mr. Donald Weltlich, Controller
530 Tuscarawas Street W.
Canton, Ohio 44702
(330) 456-8113
I’m also far too involved in the building plans for our Chiang Mai International School. I have served on the board for over 20 years and have been Chairman for the past four. It’s a daunting task, particularly since we have outgrown our shoes and need to develop a new campus. By the way, if any of you are certified teachers and would consider a lovely adventure in the tropics, let me know. The pay is good, the living conditions better than you would expect, the health care superb and the people just unbelievable.
May the Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you throughout 2011.
Bill Yoder
The 2011 Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, p. 133
