A little nervous...officially applying to Seminary

[pcon]

So after struggling with my heart about trying to pursue law enforcement or full time ministry...I have chosen ministry. I am nearly complete with my application paperwork for the Denver Seminary to start a Master's in Theology. I have to wrangle up 4 reference letters (1 being pastoral), a church endorsement, a statement of faith, an essay about my spiritual journey and official college transcripts.

The goal is to start in the fall session, so we're cutting it a little close, but I'm just waiting for a couple reference letters and the packet will be complete.

If you're the prayin sort, would you mind shooting one up for my admission into the program?

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[Gunnutty]

Will be praying for you. I've been pastoring the same church for the last 25 years. Seminary is great. I graduated with a masters in Theology. Finished my post graduate work for the Doctorate just haven't completed my thesis. Hard to find the time.
The rewards certainly out weigh the trials.

[dukalmighty]

Have you though about the Universal Life Church,about 5 minutes online and you can become a reverend in the church and with a small donation can become a member in good standing.I'm just saying if you need a backup plan.

Good luck I'm sure you didn't reach your decision without a lot of thought

[PastorPack]

Yeah!

I finished my Masters in Theology about 3 years ago. It was a great experience.

I'll be praying that the right doors open for you!

[obxned]

You will still be in law enforcement, just a higher set of laws.

[ImaShepardRU]

I'd be glad to send one up for you.

On another note....if you have an interest in law enforcement....sometime down the road, when things have settled down for you and your on your way; you might consider checking into wherever it is that you have settled and see if there is any Reserve or Auxiliary possibilities. It is a very rewarding way to be involved in a small way, for those that didn't go the path of full-time LEO, but have an interest.

Take care.

[rottkeeper]

Prayers sent, good luck and God Bless.

[Chaplain Scott]

PCON:

Although it was more than a few years ago (I went to Seminary 1976-80), I thouroughly enjoyed Seminary (well, the Greek and Hebrew classes were not so "fun" but still rewarding). To study His Word and all that goes along with being a good shepherd was truly rich and magnificient. I have never regretted my Call to ministry.

Like ImaShepherd said--there is always the Police reserve, or even the police chaplaincy. You might also consider the Army chaplaincy--another truly great calling--the opportunity to minister to soldiers and their families is a demanding but very meaningful and sacred service. If that sounds like something you might be interested in, do NOT go talk to an Army Recruiter--go to the US Army chief of chaplains website and follow their links to the chaplain recruting site. (or drop me a PM and we can chat about it)

Blessings,

Scott

[ron8903]

PCON,
It's men and women like you that reassures me there is hope
for our country.
Prayers sent up for you, God bless and good luck.

[DaveH]

You will still be in law enforcement, just a higher set of laws.

and

to you, too, pcon

[RevDoug]

Hey, good to hear! Seminary was one of the hardest things I've ever done -- but also one of the most rewarding. Just remember to fill each day with prayer, and never let the academic emphasis eclipse the pastoral goal.

In other words: remember that Sunday's comin', & the sheep need to be fed!

RevDoug

[TucAzRider]

Good for you... :-)

[cmb]

congrats, it is definitely a calling! I did my undergrad at a Bible College and loved all my time available there to study and glean from some very intelligent and godly men. It is a great time. I have been in ministry for almost 9 years and pastoring fulltime for 2 and I love it. thouth I would do the MDIV and PHD thing but God called to a different route. Just wish there was two of me so I could do more. PM me anytime with any prayers or theology, philosophy, ethics, stuff I love academia just pursue it on my own. And I thought Greek was great! May God bless your efforts.

[Paco]

Prayin for ya. Good luck when you get to Greek and Latin classes, I hear they are a riot

Don't get burned out with all of your studies, remember to take time for your own personal time with God and your family.

[zbock]

Anyone that is considering or is in full time ministry or heavily involved in ministry NEEDs to read this book:

Amazon.com: The Forgotten Ways: Reactivating the Missional Church (9781587431647): Alan Hirsch, Leonard Sweet: Books

good luck!