It’s hard to believe, but as of this spring, I have been a student of Sioux Falls Seminary for four years! It has been an incredibly valuable experience for me. As a result of my studies, I’ve gained both practical and theological knowledge; I’ve developed a healthy understanding and approach to church work; and most importantly, I’ve grown closer to Christ. I cannot say enough good things about the seminary. They are committed to developing knowledgeable, wise pastors who lead and serve their churches with an extra measure of spiritual maturity. I pray and believe that my education is being put to good use.
As always, your continued prayers and encouragement are welcome! It is only by the grace of God that I’ve been able to make it this far; he has used your various ways of showing support to sustain me on this journey. I feel as though I am surrounded by my own “great cloud of witnesses” to help me persevere 🙂
Here’s what I’ve been up to since the last update:
This fall, I finished the first of two required theology classes called God, Christ, and Humanity. The class covered a variety of topics such as inspiration, tradition, reason and faith, and the Trinity. Even though we were discussing some fairly “heady” stuff, our professor was quite adept at pointing out the practical implications for complex theological concepts. I appreciate the effort he put in to bringing things back down to earth and explaining how what we were learning relates to everyday life. It’s one thing to learn theology in the classroom, but it’s another thing entirely to apply it in a way that actually serves the local congregation! As I said to friends and family this fall, this is the kind of class I was been waiting to take. I love learning about and discussing this type of material.
It only makes sense, then, that I’m also enjoying my studies this spring. I’m taking my second required theology class, Creation, Spirit, and the Church. So far, we’ve been learning about the Holy Spirit, the sacraments, and the nature of the Church.
Last, but not least…
In January, I was awarded a scholarship to study in Israel at Jerusalem University College over the summer. I will be taking a class called Historical and Geographical Settings of the Bible, an intensive course designed to “help students discover ways that Biblical events can be placed in their proper geographical, historical and cultural context.” You can read the seminary’s announcement here, and you can read my scholarship essay here.
I see this class as a once in a lifetime opportunity. Were it not for the generosity of the seminary and a few anonymous donors, I doubt I would ever have a chance to take this trip. Nonetheless, it is not without its out-of-pocket expenses! We don’t leave until mid-June, and I have already invested a significant amount of my savings into the trip. If you consider yourself one of my supporters and a partner in ministry, please prayerfully consider providing financial support.
The easiest way to provide assistance is by making a tax-deductible donation through the seminary’s LIFE Fund program. This form explains how it works. Your contributions will enable me to continue taking classes. If you have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to contact me. I’m in this for the long haul, and I can’t do it without you!
Regardless of whether you’re able to help me financially, thank you for investing in the work God has called me to do. It means the world to me that you’re even taking the time to read this post! If you have any questions, concerns, or just want to grab a cup of coffee sometime, let me know.
Sincerely,
Mike Harvat
*Whew!*