This summer, I had the opportunity to support around 20 students through the Counselors Online Academy. They are taking the course Foundations of Counseling, which is designed both for new counselors and for those who already have experience in camp ministry.
It has been encouraging to see that the course is helpful for both new and experienced counselors. New counselors receive a strong foundation for serving children and teenagers, while experienced counselors have the opportunity to reflect more deeply on their role, evaluate their approach, and strengthen their ministry.
One of the students, Svetlana from Kazan', Tatarstan, recently completed the course and shared this reflection:
“The course was filled with a deep foundation, essential basics, and carefully prepared material. It also helped me look deeper into myself, bring things into alignment, practice what I learned, and strengthen the material. There were many moments of insight along the way.
I really liked the platform itself, with questions, options, and everything in one place. The evaluation and feedback happened very quickly.
Thank you to everyone who prepared and supported this course. May the Lord prepare all of us for this responsible and important ministry.”
Another student, Alexey, shared:
“The course covered things that may seem obvious, but that I had never really thought about before. I am very glad I was able to take this course. Blessings to the organizers. I am sure that God is helping you and will continue to help you even more in your work.”
I am grateful that the course is not only giving counselors information, but also helping them prepare their hearts, practice what they learn, and serve with greater care and responsibility.
I was especially proud to see two of our students serving at our Moscow camp. They came prepared and were an encouraging example to other counselors.
