If you read this blog frequently you know that I graduated with my Master of Theology degree from Western Seminary a couple months ago and my wife graduated from Portland State University with her Bachelor of Science degree in Child and Family Studies a few weekends ago. Now it is time for us to transition to the next phase of our lives. Since we moved to Portland, OR, we knew it was unlikely that we’d stay here long term. Miranda was raised in Texas and I was raised in California. The long rainy seasons of Oregon have been too hard and even as Portland’s “Portlandia” culture gains attention and appreciation from many, we never felt like it was home. So this September we will be moving.
Our goal has been to return to San Francisco, CA. I thought that I might be able to retain a position with Western Seminary, but there were complications that prevented this from happening. I entertained the idea of working with the seminary longer because I have enjoyed being an employee, I liked the idea of having an pay check when I moved, and I knew they would be flexible with my academic goals. Unfortunately northern California is a bit too expensive. Our hearts are in San Francisco, but our bodies cannot be. Maybe in a few more years?
Another option was a move to the suburbs of Chicago, IL. One of my professors nominated me for entry into the application process with Leadership Journal (a magazine owned by Christianity Today) for a one year, paid editorial residency internship. I was quite tempted by this offer and I interviewed all the way to the final stage of the process before withdrawing my name from consideration. I like working with words, but something didn’t seem to fit and I couldn’t put finger on it. At the end of the day I knew it wasn’t for me even though I was told a couple times that I’d be crazy to do anything but accept it.
So where are we going? My wife has family in Texas and we have the opportunity to move to San Antonio, live relatively cheap, and access a network of connections that is probably better for the both of us and that will allow both of us to move forward in our vocational ambitions. I don’t know how long we will be there, but I presume two to three years at least unless something changes.
Now let me ask if anyone has any connections in San Antonio to either a high school or college teaching position (adjunct is fine) or academic administration. I won’t limit myself to that, so if you think there is something in San Antonio that would fit me, and you have a lead, let me know. I wouldn’t mind working in a church context as well. You can either leave a comment or email me at brianleport@gmail.com. And of course, say a prayer or two for us as we transition.
Best wishes for your new adventure!
Thanks Paul!
We will miss you here in the Pac NW, Brian.
Are you still going to pursue that PhD by distance with Craig Evans?
This should give you an idea of San Diego
http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/San+Antonio+TX+USTX1200:1:US
I mean San Antonio
Bobby
Yes, I am near completing the application for the University of Bristol. I hope to begin in January 2013 if accepted. I would have either John Nolland or David Wenham as my internal supervisor with Evans as my external if all works according to plan. Say a prayer for me!
Dn4sty
I know it is going to be very warm! I am eager to be back in hot weather though. I am a Californian and Oregon has been far too cold and rainy for me. Texas will be a bit hotter, but I will adjust. As long as there is a lot of sun I am fine.
Something lined up there, or being moved by faith?
Andrew
A little of both, probably. My wife may have a few opportunities. My opportunities are far foggier at this point, but SA will give me the flexibility to focus on my doctoral studies, which was my main reason for wanting to move there.
Bittersweet feelings on the part of your church, and your pastor, Brian! God will lead and guide each step of the way. Very nice that you and Miranda will be close to family again–and, as with all your travels, I’m sure the City will become that much more precious to you!
I love San Antonio, and have some good memories of it from when I was there at Ft. Sam Houston for med training!)
Well done for having the courage to follow faith then; prayers for you both!
I will keep that in prayer, Brian. Your situation sounds very similar to mine; I mean the way your doctoral program might be set up (since Myk Habets is my external, but primary supervisor; and then I have an internal one at SATS). Anyway, I will keep this whole transition time for you guys in prayer. Maybe we could meet one more time for coffee before you guys head out?
Ken
We will miss GBC. It has been nice to have a “home” while in Portland and you’ve been a great pastor!
Andrew
Thank you!
Bobby
Indeed, email me and let’s set up a morning to meet.
If you want to teach High School, Texas is chock-full of “alternative” certification programs. You might even land one this late in the hiring season and still get hired by August. Stranger things have happened. At any rate, the big plus for your needs is that they *love* hiring rookies in Texas ISD’s. (That’s “independent school district”, btw.)
Best of luck…
Bill
Thanks for the lead. I might look into that.
Many congrats and we are praying for your transition. I hope you find a great fit for your formidable biblio-skillz.
Paul
Thank you sir!