A little over two weeks into the Fall trimester means we’re beginning to find our groove in terms of our courses. We’re finding the best times and the best places to read our texts, we’re figuring out how to ramp up our research while keeping track of citations and resources, and we’re learning how to understand our instructors and their particular ways of teaching.
Zoom and Populi are becoming old hat. The DTL is either our favorite tool or the bane of our existence. On one hand, we’re relishing being able to Zoom when we can and yet love attending in person when required. We miss making new friends face-to-face but are discovering new ways to build relationships over long distances, multiple time zones, and varied cultures.
The concept of “seminary,” though exciting and scary at times, is becoming a comfortable place to call “home.” The word seminary comes from Latin and has been translated as “seed bed.” In other words, seminarians are here to grow. Winebrenner is an institute of higher learning in topics and themes that prepare us for ministry in the world. Some of us are digging deeply into Scripture, theological studies, and the details of serving as pastors, chaplains, and educators. Some of us are learning the intricacies of social science and clinical counseling in order to impact the lives of hurting people. All of us are working to change lives in meaningful ways. Our goal is to partner with God to grow his Kingdom in our world, helping the world around us grow in their faith in Christ.
The start of the term can be filled with busy work. It should also be a time of thinking new thoughts, discovering new ways of doing and being, and building relationships that will change us today and through all of our tomorrows.
May this be our prayer at the beginning of this term—and throughout these weeks devoted to study, learning, assimilation, and application:
Gracious and loving God, thank you for the gift of Winebrenner Seminary. Help us be committed and strong in this season of learning. Light in us a fire of love for all people, even those we might have once thought of as our enemies. Grant us wisdom, understanding, and the strength we will need to follow so closely in the footsteps of Jesus that we are covered with the dust of his feet.
Inspire us with the indwelling presence of your Holy Spirit. Give us the words we need to tell others the Good News of Jesus Christ. Allow us to experience joy as we learn more and more of what it means to be instruments of your grace and peace in a world so desperate for a touch from you.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns in us. Amen.
Dr. Martin Johnson, Cheif Academic Officer
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