’08. 

Southern Wesleyan takes a moment to view the hours before one of her alumna returns to teach in Turkey. Join in the preparations and the emotions as Lauren prepares for her return. 

August 4, 2008

Tomorrow morning at 11:09 a.m. I begin my journey back to Ankara, Turkey.  Today has been a whirl-wind of running errands, doing laundry, pulling everything out into the living room and cramming it into what has now become 3 suitcases, cooking a Turkish meal for Mom and Dad, and just trying to end well.

It has been a blessing to reunite with my family and friends this summer.  Each visit seemed way too short, but I’m thankful for them just the same!  I’m sure it comes as no surprise that I’m feeling quite a mix of emotions right now as I look forward to returning, yet I’m sad to be leaving my beloved family!

I’ll meet up with a friend and co-teacher in Chicago and we will fly together the rest of the trip.   It will be nice to spend time with her and share in the lay-over’s together.

PRAISE!!  I received word from my school director last Saturday to confirm that I have two roommates for this year.  Both girls are new teachers at our school (English Second Language and first-grade).  They are both named Ruth and they are both new to living in Turkey.  Because there are three of us rooming together we are going to be of great help financially to one another.  Thank you for your prayers about this concern!!

I will join with the entire staff for orientation on Monday, August 18th .  Then we begin classes August 25th.  I continue to anticipate teaching high school ESL.  I look forward to this new experience in teaching. 

I was able to work on my ESL teaching certification this summer, which I will complete in early October.

It is still an honor to serve our LORD as I live for him in Ankara, Turkey.

Thank you for your love, support and encouragement as we strive to share the love of Christ with those whom we come in contact.

Recklessly His,


Lauren E. Hughey

Submitted by Shirley Duncan

Shirley is the Director of Church Relations and her husband David is the Chaplin of Hephzibah  Children’s Home.  Shirley and David are friends and neighbors of Lauren Hughey and are also graduates of Southern Wesleyan University.  Shirley’s heart was touched as she watched Lauren pack for her trip.  Shirley said, “her spirit and enthusiasm was ready to go and serve with her talents in this country and she didn’t seem to be thinking about the comforts of home!