I said I’d never go back. When I graduated from Washington State University, I was done with school. But, as the word says in Proverbs 16:9, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD determines his steps.” Needless to say, God has been at work in my heart.
On Sunday, guest preacher Tim Osborn announced that I have been accepted into a program he is leading at Western Seminary. This cohort program is designed around people like me that have a number of years of full-time ministry experience, but lack formal theological training. The 3 year program allows a pace that will be manageable for a guy like me who has a job and family. I will be in class one day a month and have a group zoom call one other day a month. All other study will be independent. The program is a cohort model, which means I will go through all 3 years with the same group of of people.
What will I be learning? I will be aiming at a Masters of Arts In Ministry and Leadership. This is a degree that will study topics like hermeneutics (how to interpret the Bible), theology, Old and New Testament, leadership and many others. If you really want to geek out, you can find all the info here: https://www.westernseminary.edu/academics/cohort-landing/portland-maml-cohort
So what exactly do I hope to get out of this? One, I think it will help me be a better pastor. It will better equip me to lead people and to handle the Word. Additionally, I know that at some point, I will cease to be an effective worship pastor. You don’t see a lot of worship pastors reach retirement age in that role. When that day comes, I want to be better equipped for whatever God has next for me. Now let me clarify, I love my job. When I think of doing something different, it makes me sad. I don’t have my sights set on something else, but I do think this schooling is a good equipping opportunity.
If you are inclined…please pray for me that I can balance school, work and family. I would be lying if I said I’m not a little apprehensive in facing this new chapter. Pray for time management and clarity of thought as I study in the wee hours of the morning.