Fall Trumpet2023 Trumpet
90 Years and Counting
Scripture strongly supports the practice of reflecting on the past. Many times in both the Old and New Testaments, the writers encourage readers to remember. As PRBI embarks on another school year, the words of the Psalmist resonate deeply: “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. Your ways, O God, are holy. What god is so great as our God?” (Ps 77:11–13).
The fall of 2023 marks the 90th year of PRBI. Our desire is that our anniversary celebrations become a time for contemplating God’s faithfulness in establishing and
upholding the college through the committed service of our founders, board members, staff, and supporters. May our memories guide us towards honouring Him!
Remembering the history of PRBI goes beyond mere nostalgia; it can enrich our current and future experiences. Recognizing that our present circumstances were not solely attained through our own endeavours humbles us as we reminisce. Without God’s intervention, we have no narrative to celebrate today. Apart from God, our future holds no promise. Therefore, our celebrations must revolve around Him, for history is essentially “His” story. A critical
examination of the past is needed to identify God’s involvement in the college’s development. This will increase our trust in Him and ensure credit is given where it’s deserved.
History is fundamentally God’s narrative realized through His people. Concentrating on our history offers an opportunity to learn from the faithful who preceded us. What lessons, what inspiration, lie ahead as we reflect on those who have dedicated themselves to the college over the past 90 years? The exhortation from the author of Hebrews is pertinent: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the
sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (He 12:1).
Studying history often illuminates how much has changed. S. Keeble, one of the first students, writing about living conditions in Berwyn (the initial campus location) stated, “There was neither power nor indoor plumbing... but it was comfortable.” Today, each building is equipped with numerous restroom facilities, and alongside electricity, students enjoy highspeed internet connection. Despite the considerable change over 90 years, PRBI remains committed to the founders’ mission. In 1947, an act of the Alberta legislature
Kim Cairns President
incorporated the Peace River Bible Institute. The college’s mission was outlined in the opening paragraph of this document: “having as its object the conduct of a Bible College, the training of students in a thorough knowledge of the Word of God, the Holy Scriptures and the training of students to become ministers, whether at home or abroad.”
You will read in this edition of the Trumpet several previously published articles written by leaders who served between 1940 and 2002. A continuity of mission is well demonstrated in these articles. Each one, in some form, captures the essence of our mission—equipping students with the Word of God for service, whether locally or globally. In 2023, our mission remains steadfast. God’s Word continues to be at the core of our curriculum. We desire for every student to encounter Christ and be transformed by His Word, enabling them to serve as ministers wherever in God’s kingdom He leads them.
What also remains unchanged is the unwavering and sacrificial support from our community. Devoted supporters have
prayed for and contributed funds to further the mission of PRBI. It’s through God’s grace that all of this has been made possible.
Reflecting on the past also illuminates our future. We stand merely a decade away from our centennial celebration. What lies ahead for PRBI? If this query were posed in 1933, I suspect that from a human perspective, viability seemed questionable. Some might make the same assertion today, given the cultural shifts on the horizon. Nevertheless, two constants persist.
First, the need for individuals trained in the Word of God is still undiminished. The demand for equipped vocational ministers remains substantial. Equally crucial is the student who can disciple others in the Word of God, regardless of their chosen vocation.
Second, and paramount, the God who guided PRBI in the past is the same God who guides it in the present and will continue to do so according to His will in the future.
PRBI was established by God, is sustained by Him, and will exist to His glory as He determines!
Christian young man or woman, God has called you to serve Him. The degree of service to which we are commanded: “Present your bodies a living sacrifice to God” (Ro 12:1), applies to all. Whether that call be to a life of sacrificial ministry and service at home or abroad, in the pulpit or in the pew, on the farm or in the workshop, a living knowledge of Christ and His word is indispensable.
It is usually difficult and many times impossible to gain by private study the Bible training that many young people desire. The last 100 years have seen the raising up in this land and throughout the world a great number of Bible schools – schools where the great emphasis has been to open up the scriptures.
With obedience to the revealed word comes the call to consecration
and service. The sphere of service will differ with each individual.
The purpose of the Bible school is to train and send forth men and women who will be His ambassadors in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.
One can know all ABOUT God and His work and still KNOW Him only in a cold and limited way. The “letter alone” killeth; overemphasis of the work of the Spirit to the neglect of the foundation of the Word leads to fanaticism: God’s balance is to have much of both. Such a condition we covet for this school – whence faculty and students grounded and stablished in the teachings of the scriptures may go forth filled with His Spirit and consecrated for His service.
1941 “Green Book” Walter McNaughton Founder of PRBI Sustained By GodSince 1933 two Bible Schools in the Peace River District have closed. The depression, W.W. II, denominational trends, and other factors have also threatened PRBI, yet it continues. In my opinion, at least five factors have contributed to its continuing ministry.
1. Men of Conviction & Vision
From its early beginnings there have been Christian men convinced that a Bible school would meet a definite need. Though internal personnel have come and gone, Board Members have given constant and reliable leadership to this day.
2. Giving Supporters
Sacrificial supporters have had a lifegiving effect on its continuity. Wills, bonds, insurance policies, millions of dollars, goods, and countless hours of free labour have had their share in sustaining our school.
3. Courageous Leaders
When the old campus had served its purpose, key leadership emerged. In spite of cautionings and resistance
Harold Peters President 1980-1989
at times, these people of vision courageously provided the motivation that has given us this debt-free campus we all appreciate today.
4. Committed Staff & Faculty
For many years, dedicated people served the Lord without salaries and current benefits. Though their basic needs were met, at times additional employment was sought to sustain them in the work of the school.
5. Quality Programs
Quality Bible education has always been PRBI’s motto: “Holding Forth the Word of Life.” PRBI’s leaders have consistently sought to keep God’s Word at the core of all our programs. Today PRBI grants degrees that are honoured by Mission Boards, denominations, and Christian colleges and seminaries.
In addition to the foregoing insights, it is evident that God saw that PRBI would become known in most parts of the world as its graduates went forth to serve the Lord.
The TRUMPET is the magazine of Peace River Bible Institute. It is comprised of contributions from faculty, staff, alumni, and students who are passionate about making disciples in their churches and communities. If you have any comments, please email us at development@prbi.edu. Printed in Canada.
