Claire Flowers-Waggener
(Master of Divinity)

ClaireChoosing to respond to "the call" can be a gut-wrenching experience that takes years to resolve, and in some cases, the choice is made in an instant, life-altering moment. In a moment, I chose to respond to a yearning in my heart that had been aching for decades.

I then had to choose which seminary I would attend!

Brandon Hanks
(Master of Divinity)

BrandonI find great comfort in knowing that the gifts of God are irrevocable--that God is faithful even if we are faithless. My faith journey begins with the Church of the Brethren. I was raised in the church by my family going to Sunday school and attending worship each week. But as a teenager I found myself struggling in my understanding of the word of God. I wanted to own my faith. I wanted it to be...

Katie Shaw Thompson
Master of Divinity

BethanyI have to admit I had no idea how much my cross-cultural trip to Marburg, Germany, would broaden my perspective. By immersing myself in German culture, I learned more about hospitality, theology, global politics, my neighbor, and myself than I thought possible in two weeks.

I was overwhelmed by the hospitality shown to us by the parish church and our host families. I will forever be...

Kimberly Koczan-Flory

KimberlyNot long ago, I was uncertain if I would be a Bethany student. My calling to ministry holds a strong commitment to the church, but has always extended beyond church doors. I am passionate about the ways God is moving within congregations, but committed also to those who seek God outside of the institutional structures. One of the primary places. I feel most fully engaged in life-giving ministry is as a spiritual...

Todd Peterson
(Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies [CATS] Connections)

Tood Peterson
"The 'later' I've been looking for"

Like many people who recognize God is calling them to follow, I was adept at listing reasons why it couldn't work right now. Money, time, family, commitments to my local congregation--the list went on and on, and I was able to rest comfortably in...

Warren Wade
(Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies [CATS])

Warren Wade
"Surrounding myself with those that Jesus would"

I have felt the call for years. It's been the most silently real yet consistent and palpable sensations of my soul. When I first experienced Jesus as an adult, I understood him differently than I do today. I heard him call me to be active in the...

Staci Williams
(Master of Divinity Connections)


"Determined to make it happen"

My call came to me as I was sitting at a spiritual retreat talking about women in ministry. Suddenly I just had this overwhelming feeling that I knew I was supposed to be one of those women. That event started me on a journey that has been remarkable, wonderful, challenging, and sometimes scary. But one...