A North American Baptist Seminary
2100 S. Summit Ave.
.
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
fall 2010
equipping leaders . . . transforming lives
with annual report insert Sioux Falls Seminary
800.440.6227 or 605.336.6588 info@sfseminary.edu
www.sfseminary.edu
Make an It is easier than you think! If you would like to help students prepare for ministry for generations to come, without it costing you a single cent during your lifetime, read on! By including Sioux Falls Seminary in your estate plans, you can endow a scholarship that will benefit students for years to come. For example, let’s say you choose to make a $25,000 designation in your will or trust to establish a scholarship endowment at the seminary. After your life, that money would be invested and the interest would provide $1,000 each year to a deserving student. It’s a great way to put your money to Kingdom use after you no longer need it. To find out more, please contact Benjamin Lee in the Leadership Foundation at Sioux Falls Seminary at 800.440.6227 or benlee@sfseminary.edu. If you have already included the seminary in your estate plans, please let us know so we can celebrate your generosity.
Stay in Touch
with Sioux
Falls Seminary
Staying in Touch, the former alumni e-newsletter, is published as part of the Impact magazine. We encourage you to stay in touch with us by sharing your current ministry role, family news, prayer requests, and more. To submit your updates, news, and prayer requests, please e-mail stayingintouch@sfseminary.edu, send us a message on Facebook, call 800.440.6227 ext. 2715, or visit www.sfseminary.edu/contact. To receive the latest news and event information by e-mail, please register online at www.sfseminary.edu/ signup.php. Sioux Falls Seminary impact
14
Fall 2010
‘74
The Rev. Randy Tschetter and his wife, Karla, live in Sioux Falls, SD. Randy has been serving as the Director of Church and Alumni Relations for Sioux Falls Seminary’s Leadership Foundation since 2004. In addition, Randy recently completed work on his Doctor of Ministry degree at SFS. In the section below, he shares some findings of his final project, which is titled Toward a Culture of Generosity Among Alumni of Sioux Falls Seminary.
Generosity as a Ministry by Rev. Randy Tschetter
fall 2010
contents 1
from the president
President Hagan talks about what is at the heart of Sioux Falls Seminary’s mission.
2
equipping . . .
4
We equip servant leaders. Read about the cross-country journey that new student Matthew Holmes took to answer his call.
serving . . .
annual report insert
prayer and praise
8
growing . . .
The 2009-2010 Annual Report for Sioux Falls Seminary reflects on year of prayer and praise.
Introducing sfsOmaha, an exciting new venture from Sioux Falls Seminary. Learn more about how we are bringing seminary education to the Omaha region.
10 sfs event calendar
Discover how Sioux Falls Seminary is serving the community, students, churches, individuals, and more:
.Second Annual Harvest Festival .January Term 2011 Preview .Straw Bale Shed to Become Tool Library .Young Christian Leaders Event Series .Community Development Collaboration .SFPS Serves Community and Churches .Summit House Receives Grant .Online Video Devotionals
Sioux Falls Seminary impact
Connect with SFS at upcoming events. Event listings are always available online at www.sfseminary.edu/events.
11 staying in touch
News, updates, and prayer requests from Sioux Falls Seminary alumni.
The impact is published by Sioux Falls Seminary two times per year for the benefit of the seminary community, friends, alumni, and supporters. Additional news and event information is distributed by e-mail throughout the year. To join our online news list, please visit www.sfseminary.edu/signup.php or call 800.440.6227 ext. 2703.
“I am a pastor, not a fundraiser.” That was my first response to an April 2004 phone call asking if I were interested in becoming a member of the Leadership Foundation at Sioux Falls Seminary. Like many others, I was a bit skeptical about the spiritual and ethical implications of being a “fundraiser.” Additionally, I was not sure that I had the skill, or the desire, to ask people for money. However, in the past six years, I have gained a fresh understanding of the importance of securing the financial resources needed to support a ministry like SFS which is committed to equipping servant leaders for the ministries of Christ. More importantly, I have become convinced that fundraising is not primarily about dollars and cents but rather about pastoral ministry—enabling God’s people to share in the joy and blessing of generosity. The challenges of funding this important ministry led me to a major research and writing project concerning the matter of generosity—especially as it relates to the alumni of Sioux Falls Seminary. Several themes emerged: •
Generosity is a matter of great interest in today’s culture as evidenced by both secular and Christian writers.
•
Biblical priorities for generosity include: Christians caring for other Christians, Christians caring for non-Christians, and support for those who are called to lead and teach.
•
Asking people to be generous requires a great deal of integrity. I concur with John Pearson’s challenge to Christian ministries: “We challenge donors to give liberally to kingdom causes. We urge prayerful giving to God’s work, not for tax benefits nor budget needs. We scrutinize our methodologies not against what works, but against God-honoring principles.” *
•
While there is no specific scriptural model for delivering theological education, the task of doing so continues to be one that’s filled with challenges and opportunities as administrators, educators, and students seek to be led by the Holy Spirit.
By a wide margin, alumni who were interviewed for this research indicated that their primary motivation for supporting SFS was commitment—commitment based on positive relationships developed with the seminary while they were students and as they are alumni. The task of “fundraising” is really “relationshipbuilding” among the seminary’s approximately 1100 living alumni and hundreds of other friends and partners in ministry. Realities like social networking and computer technologies can be useful in the matter of friendship building among people of certain demographics. For others, however, more traditional forms of relationship building are required. Generosity which is reflected in a variety of ways —financial support, student referrals, volunteerism, and more—will grow as SFS continues to care for its alumni and reaches out to the ministry needs of its many friends in building a culture of generosity.
*John W. Pearson, “Mastering the Management Buckets: 20 Critical Competencies for Leading Your Business or Non Profit,” (Ventura, CA: Regal Books, 2008).
‘10 (continued) Travis Lavender resides in Omaha, NE, and works at Christ for the City. He and his wife, Becky, welcomed Ian Lee Lavender to their family on August 10, 2010.
Sarah (Hagan) Loane married Rob Loane on Friday, August 13, 2010, at Trinity Baptist Church in Sioux Falls. The couple resides in Sioux Falls, SD.
Shawn Robinson and his wife, Katherine, are expecting their second child in April 2011. The baby will join their son William, who was born in December 2009. 13
Fall 2010
alumni updates G. Michael Hagan, President of Sioux Falls Seminary
‘90
The Rev. Roy Caudill and his wife, Lazann, live in Sioux Falls, SD. Roy is enjoying his work as District Superintendent in the Glacial Lakes Region of the United Methodist Church.
‘94
The Rev. Jeffrey Hastings is a Captain in the United States Army. Chaplain Hastings was called to active duty on August 1, 2010. He is deployed with the 718 Trans BN to the Middle East. He is overseeing 1500 soldiers in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan, traveling to and from all areas to offer encouragement, prayers, support, and counsel. Chaplain Hastings’ son Logan (25) has also been deployed (June 2010) with the 101st Airborne, currently serving in Afghanistan. Both tours (father and son) are to last one year. Wife and mother, Criss Hastings, will reside in Kentucky during their absence.
‘95
Susan Omanson founded Be Free Ministries several years ago to address the growing problem of sexual exploitation, slavery, and trafficking on a global and local level. Learn more at www.befree58.org.
‘04
The Rev. Carla Jensen and her husband, Barry, just relocated to Sioux Falls. Carla has been serving in a pastoral position at Alvord Lutheran Church.
‘05
Angela Boyenga and her husband, Mike, farm near Ellsworth, MN. Sioux Falls Seminary impact
12
‘06
Clint Hogrefe and his wife, Greta, live in Meriden, IA. Clint is the Senior Pastor at Oakdale Evangelical Free Church. On February 7, 2010, Clint and Greta welcomed their second child. Packer Dennis (named after J.I. Packer) joins sister Esther Louise.
‘10
Andrew Bartel and his wife, Kate, moved northward from Mitchell, SD, to near Valley City, ND, to be co-directors of the Wesley Acres United Methodist Church camp. They are very excited to be in ministry together and hope to develop a spiritual renewal center for church leaders (both lay and clergy) across the Dakotas.
‘03
Ryan Stander and his wife, Karina (Breitkreuz) ‘04, reside in Grand Forks, ND. Ryan is currently in his third and last year of the Master of Fine Arts program at The University of North Dakota. In April 2011, he will present his final exhibition, which is the MFA’s version of thesis.
Alumnus Essay to be Included in 2010 College Theology Society Annual Volume, Coming Spring ‘11 In June 2010, Sioux Falls Seminary alumnus Ryan Stander presented an essay titled “Desiring Place: Artists, HGTV/Travel Channel Cultures, and Eucharistic Topogenesis” at the annual joint meeting of the College Theology Society (CTS) and the National Association of Baptist Professors of Religion (NABPR). The essay, which was presented within the Art, Literature, and Religion Section, has been selected for inclusion into the 2010 CTS Annual Volume Religion, Economics, and Culture in Conflict and Conversation published by Orbis Books. Stander’s essay is one of approximately fifteen papers chosen from the annual conference. The essay explores how consumer society shapes place and space and, in return, humanity itself. Stander examined the work of two artists—Jennifer A. Nelson, a North Dakota artist, and Martin Parr, a British photographer—to raise questions about how consumer desire shapes perspectives on place. He then looked at the work of human geographer David Sack who argues that consumer places produce new and invented contexts and meanings while severing ties to their earlier global production, effects, and meanings. Thus, place and geography are moral concepts that we must evaluate how said places are being used. Sack’s proposal led Stander to Philip Sheldrake’s sacramental proposal arguing that the Eucharist creates a unique form of redemptive and transformative space, which he calls Eucharistic topogenesis. That space unmasks consumerism’s disorientation. The body of Christ is then to extend and embody this particular space within the world.
ge the mission of rvant leaders who enga se uip ts eq we — ng thi e does on gree offerings. It reflec Sioux Falls Seminary ion speaks to all our de ss mi e Th . ed us foc y, sh Jesus. Simple, not fla for prepared people. h urc ch the of ed ne the ssion. Everything ect the heart of our mi refl nts de 101 plus Stu ? ion ss our mi ministry contexts, the the , ing ild bu What is at the heart of the y, ult what God the courses, the fac s at equipping them for aim ng thi revolves around them: ery to Ev re. learn, and mo try where we continue things we wish students r long-term aim is a lifelong, effective minis Ou wants to do with them. way. d ministries along the an s live ir the speak into try or services as students provide minis r ou : ss ce pro ng rni the Marriage and ens in the lea most difficult cases in the of An amazing thing happ me so kle tac Summit House listen g students uals. Students living at s. Then, they offer a byproduct. Counselin ivid ind d an s ilie fam ng e sit , helpi a where their residenc Family Therapy Clinic ically impoverished are e a listening ear to om giv on or ec od an rho of bo s ed igh ne ne the to the in g din len for our students. a tool shed youth groups through a English lessons or build are in ce pla es tak weddings occur— cipleship burial services unfold, d, hurting neighbors. Dis he ac pre ile they t ge s on rm en, se lives of our students wh the in s su Je e Worship services happ se le op our students. Pe ministries performed by This process makes God smile. g. win are learning and gro probably don’t need t ministering now, they no are k y the if nts de tial stu skill, the heart of our tas I have often told poten ledge, character, and ow a kn or in ry ws na mi gro se nt a de n of seminary. As each stu beyond the imaginatio learn. organism that goes far nts ng de livi a stu o as int s ws lop gro ve t de e body of Chris Th . es sir de d Go at student into wh t becomes h the mission of Chris wit nt me ge ga en r Ou impacted. We we find fulfillment. region, and world are ity, un It is through them that mm co r ou , ter As they minis play a part. one of multiplication. t it is a joy to say we do bu , ns pla d’s Go in rt play a small pa
sfseminary.edu.
w. nt’s Blog online at ww Check out our Preside
1
Fall 2010
Sioux Falls Seminary equips servant leaders for the
ministries of Christ. We recognize each student is on a journey—going from a person called by God to a person being used by God. Each arrives at Sioux Falls Seminary with different life experiences. The highway adventure that student Matthew Holmes took to seminary is no exception. Whether taking a cross-country road trip or driving up the street to take classes, one thing remains constant. Sioux Falls Seminary is here to equip each student with the skills needed to fulfill God’s call—whatever that may be.
the road of life
Matthew Holmes admits feeling relief when he arrived at Sioux Falls Seminary after setting out several days earlier on a cross-country adventure from Washington state to South Dakota. It’s not that he needed rest from a long trip, but rather that he found comfort in the fact he was one step closer to fulfilling God’s call on his life. “I was really relieved to see the school—after a year of spinning my wheels, waiting for the next step. I was really excited to finally get back to work and start making some forward progress on my education.” Growing up in Spokane Valley, Washington, Matthew always felt like he had two callings—a ministry call and a professional call. And he rarely considered that the two might be the same. By the time he finished his bachelor’s degree, Sioux Falls Seminary impact
2
Matthew had decided to pursue a career as a professor of philosophy and participate in lay ministry on the side. However, God was nudging him in another direction— placing a feeling of discomfort about the choice within him. That was when Matthew stopped to reflect on his future. While taking a year off to figure things out, Matthew was strongly urged by his father to attend a seminary preview day he’d read about in the Sioux Falls Seminary newsletter. Matthew’s father, Craig Holmes, who is a 1982 graduate of the seminary, thought the campus visit might help Matthew find some kind of direction. His father was right. “I was surprised and excited by the atmosphere I experienced—an academic institution with a genuine heart for Christ,” said Matthew. “From that visit, I realized that my two callings could be the same: my academic career could be my ministry.” After some soul searching and a lot of prayer by Matthew, his family, and his church community, he decided to pursue his calling as a professor of theology.
alumni updates, news, and prayer requests
‘78
The Rev. Dr. Jeffry Hoag recently began his twenty-fifth year
of ministry at the United Baptist Church in Sault Ste. Marie, ON. His wife, Jennifer, practices her social work skills at a local nursing home. Their daughters, Laura and Sarah (Mark) Cox, both live in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and graduated from Calvin College. Jeff requests prayers for renewal in his congregation.
Duane Westing and his wife, Linda, live in Pawnee City, NE, home of Larry the Cable Guy and the world famous SchillingBridge Winery. Duane pastors the Christian (DOC) and Presbyterian (USA) churches. Linda is a teacher. They have four children: Lance, Kotzebue, AK (teacher/ coach and wife, Charlotte, a biologist for Fish and Game); Rachel, Kodiak, AK (mission work); Julie, Panay Island, Philippines (Peace Corp); and Annie, El Salvador (mission work).
‘82
The Rev. Keith Kinder and his wife, Karen, live in Brookings, SD. They ask for prayer for the many neighbors and church members who dealt with flooding this year. Also pray for the young man that Rev. Kinder mentors as he leads a Bible study group. Eddie Soto recently served as an official Spanish and Portuguese interpreter/translator at the General Assembly of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), a new organization that represents some 80 million Presbyterian and Reformed Christians world wide. He also represented his presbytery at the National Presbyterian Hispanic/Latino event in San Antonio, Texas, in July and is glad to report that Latin American churches are growing within the Presbyterian Church (USA).
‘89
Vesta Berglund and her husband, Ted, live in Bancroft, IA. They ask for prayer regarding surgery and health problems, including parathyroid issues. Ted just turned 90 and is looking forward to a trip to Washington, DC, with the Honor Flight.
‘06
Dr. Nathan Hitchcock and his wife, Christina, reside in Sioux Falls, SD. Nathan is currently teaching at Sioux Falls Seminary on a one-year appointment as Assistant Professor. Nathan and Christina have a son named Lazarus and are expecting a second child, due in 2011. In November 2010, Nathan successfully defended his doctoral dissertation at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. He has a passion for historical and theological study centering around the doctrine of the resurrection of the body. Nathan has also done pioneering work on men and religion.
11
Fall 2010
Beginning of Journey
the
December
sioux falls or bust
March
The distance between Spokane Valley, Washington, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, wasn’t a factor in Matthew’s decision to make the journey to Sioux Falls Seminary.
three
Matthew said, “The most important thing for me was to find a master’s program that would give my education a strong spiritual foundation. SFS struck me as the best place to get that kind of education.”
April
To help prepare him for his journey, Matthew’s parents gifted him with a small trailer for the 1200-mile trip. This trailer needed some TLC. It would become a symbol of the trip and a way for family and friends to share in the adventure with Matthew. His family, friends, and church community wrote special messages on the trailer before his departure.
five 34th Annual Handel’s Messiah The Sioux Falls Seminary Community Choir will once again perform Handel’s Messiah. The event is free and open to the public. No tickets required. 3:00 p.m., First Baptist Church, 1401 S. Covell Avenue
January
Community Preview Day There is no better way to learn more about SFS and academic program offerings than to visit campus. Tailor the day to your specific needs. Contact the admissions office by calling 800.440.6227 or e-mailing admissions@sfseminary.edu.
twelve
three - twenty-one
2011 January Term A variety of short-term, master’s-level courses are offered. Visit www.sfseminary.edu and click Academics/Registrar for course information and schedules.
Hiller Lectureship featuring Kyle Matthews Kyle Matthews has emerged as one of Christian music’s most prolific songwriters. His music is only a reflection of his deeper commitment to sound theology and spiritual health. Part of his mission is to motivate people to serve others in a way that allows them to meet Christ in “the least of these.” Additional details forthcoming. SFS, 2100 S. Summit Avenue
fourteen
twenty-eight
Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon Sioux Falls Seminary will honor its dedicated volunteers. 11:30 a.m., SFS, 2100 S. Summit Avenue
thirty-one
May
New Student Orientation 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., SFS, 2100 S. Summit Avenue Spring 2011 Semester Begins
February
twenty-one
Commencement and Reception 2:00 p.m., Central Baptist Church, 3100 W. Ralph Rogers Rd.
twenty-two - twenty-four
more online sfseminary.edu/events
Sioux Falls Seminary impact
10
24/7
Days of Prayer Details forthcoming.
“The sad part about moving is leaving something good behind you for something good ahead of you,” Matthew said. “The trailer was a great reminder of all of those good relationships. There are a lot of touching messages on there and more than a few inside jokes.” With his trailer full of belongings, a GPS, and a mix of emotions, Matthew and his mother Cathy embarked on the adventure to seminary—Sioux Falls or bust. After a series of tourist stops including the Lewis and Clark Caverns, Little Bighorn Battlefield, and Wall Drug, Matthew arrived and began a new adventure of scholarship and spiritual formation. Beginning classes in August 2010, Matthew’s first impression has been positive. He is looking forward to starting work on his master’s thesis, which he plans to use as the basis for his future doctoral dissertation.
long distance connections
Family and church were a huge part of Matthew’s life in Spokane Valley. His church community at Journey Fellowship are like an extended family. Not much has changed since Matthew made the journey to seminary. He still keeps in close contact with many family and friends. Face-toface chats have been reinvented. Visits are made via web cam, e-mail, Xbox Live, and telephone. Matthew admits that this network of support is what helps sustain him over 1200 miles away. “That contact is really important—part of what keeps me sane when I’m balancing work, school, and a lot of homework. Being able to call up my family, my friend Ashley, or someone else when I get overwhelmed helps me keep things in perspective,” he said.
the journey ahead
After seminary, Matthew plans to pursue doctoral studies on the Danish theologian Soren Kierkegaard. Outside of Denmark, St. Olaf’s College in Minnesota is the largest center for Kierkegaard scholarship. Matthew plans to apply for a fellowship there. Right now, he is enjoying seminary life and looking forward to continuing the adventure God has in store for him.
“The more I interact with people here at the seminary, the more sure I am that it was God who brought me here,” he said. “The faculty and staff made me feel welcome from the very first day, and the other students have been a lot of fun to get to know.” 3
Fall 2010
Nebraska key elements of Christian community development ministry with a focus on practical application in their own ministry contexts. 2 hours.
Psalms
February 11-12, March 4-5, March 25-26, and April 15-16 Fridays 6-10 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Grace University
Taught by: Michael Hagan, Sioux Falls Seminary President
The book of Psalms will be studied for in-depth understanding and usefulness in ministry. The course includes an overview of Writings, an introduction to the Psalms, and an in-depth study of representative psalms. 3 hours.
Interested in Learning More?
If you would like to register for the spring preview courses at 40% off or inquire about the fall 2011 Master of Divinity program, please contact the admissions department by calling 800.440.6227 or e-mailing admissions@sfseminary.edu.
Quick Clicks: sfsOmaha web page with additional information and .pdf brochure for download: www.sfseminary.edu/omaha Sioux Falls Seminary website: www.sfseminary.edu SFS Facebook page: www.facebook.com
Sioux Falls Seminary impact
4
9
Fall 2010
Growing the ministry of Sioux Falls Seminary and its ability to equip more servant leaders for Christ is one of the ways Sioux Falls Seminary serves the Church and its greater community. That’s why the seminary community finds it so important to explore additional program and course offerings and to consider how more people might be reached and served.
Bringing Seminary Education to Nebraska Only two and a half hours south of Sioux Falls on Interstate 29, Omaha is in need of a seminary to serve its churches and community. It is currently the largest metropolitan area in the United States without its own seminary. “We knocked on the door asking if there was a need, and the Omaha community just flung the door open and embraced us,” said Mike Hagan, President of the Sioux Falls Seminary. “We are discovering that seminary education is greatly needed there.” Conversations with Omaha churches, Grace and Creighton Universities, and individuals led to the creation of sfsOmaha—a Sioux Falls Seminary extension that will begin offering a Master of Divinity program in Omaha in fall 2011. Sioux Falls Seminary impact 8
Sioux Falls Seminary will offer courses for the Master of Divinity program at various locations in Omaha in an effort to minimize operational costs and to pass on additional benefits to students. The seminary is arranging the use of classroom and library space with Omaha-area universities and churches. In the future, the seminary hopes to hire adjunct professors and possibly full-time faculty members. Hagan said, “The number of students who embrace ministry preparation in Omaha will allow us to move faster or slower in terms of finding extra personnel. We are still in the process of developing what courses will look like in Omaha.”
Spring 2011 Preview Courses
In order to begin developing a presence in Omaha and to start building connections, the seminary is offering two master’s-level preview courses in spring 2011. The courses, “Omaha Immersion Experience” and “Psalms,” will give interested individuals a taste of seminary life and the chance to start earning credits toward a degree program. Students who enroll in one or both of the preview courses will receive a 40% tuition discount off the cost of the course(s).
Omaha Immersion Experience
March 7-11 In cooperation with Christ for the City International Location: Inner-city Omaha
Taught by: W. Jay Moon, SFS Professor of Intercultural Studies, and Travis Lavendar, Sioux Falls Seminary Alumnus
A one-week immersion experience participating in intercultural Christian ministry in inner-city Omaha. Students will survey different types of urban ministry and hear from local ministry leaders. They will discuss 5
Fall 2010
a bit of
what’s new continued . . .
Sioux Falls Seminary impact
6
7
Fall 2010
a bit of
what’s new continued . . .
Sioux Falls Seminary impact
6
7
Fall 2010
Growing the ministry of Sioux Falls Seminary and its ability to equip more servant leaders for Christ is one of the ways Sioux Falls Seminary serves the Church and its greater community. That’s why the seminary community finds it so important to explore additional program and course offerings and to consider how more people might be reached and served.
Bringing Seminary Education to Nebraska Only two and a half hours south of Sioux Falls on Interstate 29, Omaha is in need of a seminary to serve its churches and community. It is currently the largest metropolitan area in the United States without its own seminary. “We knocked on the door asking if there was a need, and the Omaha community just flung the door open and embraced us,” said Mike Hagan, President of the Sioux Falls Seminary. “We are discovering that seminary education is greatly needed there.” Conversations with Omaha churches, Grace and Creighton Universities, and individuals led to the creation of sfsOmaha—a Sioux Falls Seminary extension that will begin offering a Master of Divinity program in Omaha in fall 2011. Sioux Falls Seminary impact 8
Sioux Falls Seminary will offer courses for the Master of Divinity program at various locations in Omaha in an effort to minimize operational costs and to pass on additional benefits to students. The seminary is arranging the use of classroom and library space with Omaha-area universities and churches. In the future, the seminary hopes to hire adjunct professors and possibly full-time faculty members. Hagan said, “The number of students who embrace ministry preparation in Omaha will allow us to move faster or slower in terms of finding extra personnel. We are still in the process of developing what courses will look like in Omaha.”
Spring 2011 Preview Courses
In order to begin developing a presence in Omaha and to start building connections, the seminary is offering two master’s-level preview courses in spring 2011. The courses, “Omaha Immersion Experience” and “Psalms,” will give interested individuals a taste of seminary life and the chance to start earning credits toward a degree program. Students who enroll in one or both of the preview courses will receive a 40% tuition discount off the cost of the course(s).
Omaha Immersion Experience
March 7-11 In cooperation with Christ for the City International Location: Inner-city Omaha
Taught by: W. Jay Moon, SFS Professor of Intercultural Studies, and Travis Lavendar, Sioux Falls Seminary Alumnus
A one-week immersion experience participating in intercultural Christian ministry in inner-city Omaha. Students will survey different types of urban ministry and hear from local ministry leaders. They will discuss 5
Fall 2010
Nebraska key elements of Christian community development ministry with a focus on practical application in their own ministry contexts. 2 hours.
Psalms
February 11-12, March 4-5, March 25-26, and April 15-16 Fridays 6-10 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Grace University
Taught by: Michael Hagan, Sioux Falls Seminary President
The book of Psalms will be studied for in-depth understanding and usefulness in ministry. The course includes an overview of Writings, an introduction to the Psalms, and an in-depth study of representative psalms. 3 hours.
Interested in Learning More?
If you would like to register for the spring preview courses at 40% off or inquire about the fall 2011 Master of Divinity program, please contact the admissions department by calling 800.440.6227 or e-mailing admissions@sfseminary.edu.
Quick Clicks: sfsOmaha web page with additional information and .pdf brochure for download: www.sfseminary.edu/omaha Sioux Falls Seminary website: www.sfseminary.edu SFS Facebook page: www.facebook.com
Sioux Falls Seminary impact
4
9
Fall 2010
Beginning of Journey
the
December
sioux falls or bust
March
The distance between Spokane Valley, Washington, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, wasn’t a factor in Matthew’s decision to make the journey to Sioux Falls Seminary.
three
Matthew said, “The most important thing for me was to find a master’s program that would give my education a strong spiritual foundation. SFS struck me as the best place to get that kind of education.”
April
To help prepare him for his journey, Matthew’s parents gifted him with a small trailer for the 1200-mile trip. This trailer needed some TLC. It would become a symbol of the trip and a way for family and friends to share in the adventure with Matthew. His family, friends, and church community wrote special messages on the trailer before his departure.
five 34th Annual Handel’s Messiah The Sioux Falls Seminary Community Choir will once again perform Handel’s Messiah. The event is free and open to the public. No tickets required. 3:00 p.m., First Baptist Church, 1401 S. Covell Avenue
January
Community Preview Day There is no better way to learn more about SFS and academic program offerings than to visit campus. Tailor the day to your specific needs. Contact the admissions office by calling 800.440.6227 or e-mailing admissions@sfseminary.edu.
twelve
three - twenty-one
2011 January Term A variety of short-term, master’s-level courses are offered. Visit www.sfseminary.edu and click Academics/Registrar for course information and schedules.
Hiller Lectureship featuring Kyle Matthews Kyle Matthews has emerged as one of Christian music’s most prolific songwriters. His music is only a reflection of his deeper commitment to sound theology and spiritual health. Part of his mission is to motivate people to serve others in a way that allows them to meet Christ in “the least of these.” Additional details forthcoming. SFS, 2100 S. Summit Avenue
fourteen
twenty-eight
Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon Sioux Falls Seminary will honor its dedicated volunteers. 11:30 a.m., SFS, 2100 S. Summit Avenue
thirty-one
May
New Student Orientation 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., SFS, 2100 S. Summit Avenue Spring 2011 Semester Begins
February
twenty-one
Commencement and Reception 2:00 p.m., Central Baptist Church, 3100 W. Ralph Rogers Rd.
twenty-two - twenty-four
more online sfseminary.edu/events
Sioux Falls Seminary impact
10
24/7
Days of Prayer Details forthcoming.
“The sad part about moving is leaving something good behind you for something good ahead of you,” Matthew said. “The trailer was a great reminder of all of those good relationships. There are a lot of touching messages on there and more than a few inside jokes.” With his trailer full of belongings, a GPS, and a mix of emotions, Matthew and his mother Cathy embarked on the adventure to seminary—Sioux Falls or bust. After a series of tourist stops including the Lewis and Clark Caverns, Little Bighorn Battlefield, and Wall Drug, Matthew arrived and began a new adventure of scholarship and spiritual formation. Beginning classes in August 2010, Matthew’s first impression has been positive. He is looking forward to starting work on his master’s thesis, which he plans to use as the basis for his future doctoral dissertation.
long distance connections
Family and church were a huge part of Matthew’s life in Spokane Valley. His church community at Journey Fellowship are like an extended family. Not much has changed since Matthew made the journey to seminary. He still keeps in close contact with many family and friends. Face-toface chats have been reinvented. Visits are made via web cam, e-mail, Xbox Live, and telephone. Matthew admits that this network of support is what helps sustain him over 1200 miles away. “That contact is really important—part of what keeps me sane when I’m balancing work, school, and a lot of homework. Being able to call up my family, my friend Ashley, or someone else when I get overwhelmed helps me keep things in perspective,” he said.
the journey ahead
After seminary, Matthew plans to pursue doctoral studies on the Danish theologian Soren Kierkegaard. Outside of Denmark, St. Olaf’s College in Minnesota is the largest center for Kierkegaard scholarship. Matthew plans to apply for a fellowship there. Right now, he is enjoying seminary life and looking forward to continuing the adventure God has in store for him.
“The more I interact with people here at the seminary, the more sure I am that it was God who brought me here,” he said. “The faculty and staff made me feel welcome from the very first day, and the other students have been a lot of fun to get to know.” 3
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Sioux Falls Seminary equips servant leaders for the
ministries of Christ. We recognize each student is on a journey—going from a person called by God to a person being used by God. Each arrives at Sioux Falls Seminary with different life experiences. The highway adventure that student Matthew Holmes took to seminary is no exception. Whether taking a cross-country road trip or driving up the street to take classes, one thing remains constant. Sioux Falls Seminary is here to equip each student with the skills needed to fulfill God’s call—whatever that may be.
the road of life
Matthew Holmes admits feeling relief when he arrived at Sioux Falls Seminary after setting out several days earlier on a cross-country adventure from Washington state to South Dakota. It’s not that he needed rest from a long trip, but rather that he found comfort in the fact he was one step closer to fulfilling God’s call on his life. “I was really relieved to see the school—after a year of spinning my wheels, waiting for the next step. I was really excited to finally get back to work and start making some forward progress on my education.” Growing up in Spokane Valley, Washington, Matthew always felt like he had two callings—a ministry call and a professional call. And he rarely considered that the two might be the same. By the time he finished his bachelor’s degree, Sioux Falls Seminary impact
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Matthew had decided to pursue a career as a professor of philosophy and participate in lay ministry on the side. However, God was nudging him in another direction— placing a feeling of discomfort about the choice within him. That was when Matthew stopped to reflect on his future. While taking a year off to figure things out, Matthew was strongly urged by his father to attend a seminary preview day he’d read about in the Sioux Falls Seminary newsletter. Matthew’s father, Craig Holmes, who is a 1982 graduate of the seminary, thought the campus visit might help Matthew find some kind of direction. His father was right. “I was surprised and excited by the atmosphere I experienced—an academic institution with a genuine heart for Christ,” said Matthew. “From that visit, I realized that my two callings could be the same: my academic career could be my ministry.” After some soul searching and a lot of prayer by Matthew, his family, and his church community, he decided to pursue his calling as a professor of theology.
alumni updates, news, and prayer requests
‘78
The Rev. Dr. Jeffry Hoag recently began his twenty-fifth year
of ministry at the United Baptist Church in Sault Ste. Marie, ON. His wife, Jennifer, practices her social work skills at a local nursing home. Their daughters, Laura and Sarah (Mark) Cox, both live in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and graduated from Calvin College. Jeff requests prayers for renewal in his congregation.
Duane Westing and his wife, Linda, live in Pawnee City, NE, home of Larry the Cable Guy and the world famous SchillingBridge Winery. Duane pastors the Christian (DOC) and Presbyterian (USA) churches. Linda is a teacher. They have four children: Lance, Kotzebue, AK (teacher/ coach and wife, Charlotte, a biologist for Fish and Game); Rachel, Kodiak, AK (mission work); Julie, Panay Island, Philippines (Peace Corp); and Annie, El Salvador (mission work).
‘82
The Rev. Keith Kinder and his wife, Karen, live in Brookings, SD. They ask for prayer for the many neighbors and church members who dealt with flooding this year. Also pray for the young man that Rev. Kinder mentors as he leads a Bible study group. Eddie Soto recently served as an official Spanish and Portuguese interpreter/translator at the General Assembly of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), a new organization that represents some 80 million Presbyterian and Reformed Christians world wide. He also represented his presbytery at the National Presbyterian Hispanic/Latino event in San Antonio, Texas, in July and is glad to report that Latin American churches are growing within the Presbyterian Church (USA).
‘89
Vesta Berglund and her husband, Ted, live in Bancroft, IA. They ask for prayer regarding surgery and health problems, including parathyroid issues. Ted just turned 90 and is looking forward to a trip to Washington, DC, with the Honor Flight.
‘06
Dr. Nathan Hitchcock and his wife, Christina, reside in Sioux Falls, SD. Nathan is currently teaching at Sioux Falls Seminary on a one-year appointment as Assistant Professor. Nathan and Christina have a son named Lazarus and are expecting a second child, due in 2011. In November 2010, Nathan successfully defended his doctoral dissertation at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. He has a passion for historical and theological study centering around the doctrine of the resurrection of the body. Nathan has also done pioneering work on men and religion.
11
Fall 2010
alumni updates G. Michael Hagan, President of Sioux Falls Seminary
‘90
The Rev. Roy Caudill and his wife, Lazann, live in Sioux Falls, SD. Roy is enjoying his work as District Superintendent in the Glacial Lakes Region of the United Methodist Church.
‘94
The Rev. Jeffrey Hastings is a Captain in the United States Army. Chaplain Hastings was called to active duty on August 1, 2010. He is deployed with the 718 Trans BN to the Middle East. He is overseeing 1500 soldiers in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan, traveling to and from all areas to offer encouragement, prayers, support, and counsel. Chaplain Hastings’ son Logan (25) has also been deployed (June 2010) with the 101st Airborne, currently serving in Afghanistan. Both tours (father and son) are to last one year. Wife and mother, Criss Hastings, will reside in Kentucky during their absence.
‘95
Susan Omanson founded Be Free Ministries several years ago to address the growing problem of sexual exploitation, slavery, and trafficking on a global and local level. Learn more at www.befree58.org.
‘04
The Rev. Carla Jensen and her husband, Barry, just relocated to Sioux Falls. Carla has been serving in a pastoral position at Alvord Lutheran Church.
‘05
Angela Boyenga and her husband, Mike, farm near Ellsworth, MN. Sioux Falls Seminary impact
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‘06
Clint Hogrefe and his wife, Greta, live in Meriden, IA. Clint is the Senior Pastor at Oakdale Evangelical Free Church. On February 7, 2010, Clint and Greta welcomed their second child. Packer Dennis (named after J.I. Packer) joins sister Esther Louise.
‘10
Andrew Bartel and his wife, Kate, moved northward from Mitchell, SD, to near Valley City, ND, to be co-directors of the Wesley Acres United Methodist Church camp. They are very excited to be in ministry together and hope to develop a spiritual renewal center for church leaders (both lay and clergy) across the Dakotas.
‘03
Ryan Stander and his wife, Karina (Breitkreuz) ‘04, reside in Grand Forks, ND. Ryan is currently in his third and last year of the Master of Fine Arts program at The University of North Dakota. In April 2011, he will present his final exhibition, which is the MFA’s version of thesis.
Alumnus Essay to be Included in 2010 College Theology Society Annual Volume, Coming Spring ‘11 In June 2010, Sioux Falls Seminary alumnus Ryan Stander presented an essay titled “Desiring Place: Artists, HGTV/Travel Channel Cultures, and Eucharistic Topogenesis” at the annual joint meeting of the College Theology Society (CTS) and the National Association of Baptist Professors of Religion (NABPR). The essay, which was presented within the Art, Literature, and Religion Section, has been selected for inclusion into the 2010 CTS Annual Volume Religion, Economics, and Culture in Conflict and Conversation published by Orbis Books. Stander’s essay is one of approximately fifteen papers chosen from the annual conference. The essay explores how consumer society shapes place and space and, in return, humanity itself. Stander examined the work of two artists—Jennifer A. Nelson, a North Dakota artist, and Martin Parr, a British photographer—to raise questions about how consumer desire shapes perspectives on place. He then looked at the work of human geographer David Sack who argues that consumer places produce new and invented contexts and meanings while severing ties to their earlier global production, effects, and meanings. Thus, place and geography are moral concepts that we must evaluate how said places are being used. Sack’s proposal led Stander to Philip Sheldrake’s sacramental proposal arguing that the Eucharist creates a unique form of redemptive and transformative space, which he calls Eucharistic topogenesis. That space unmasks consumerism’s disorientation. The body of Christ is then to extend and embody this particular space within the world.
ge the mission of rvant leaders who enga se uip ts eq we — ng thi e does on gree offerings. It reflec Sioux Falls Seminary ion speaks to all our de ss mi e Th . ed us foc y, sh Jesus. Simple, not fla for prepared people. h urc ch the of ed ne the ssion. Everything ect the heart of our mi refl nts de 101 plus Stu ? ion ss our mi ministry contexts, the the , ing ild bu What is at the heart of the y, ult what God the courses, the fac s at equipping them for aim ng thi revolves around them: ery to Ev re. learn, and mo try where we continue things we wish students r long-term aim is a lifelong, effective minis Ou wants to do with them. way. d ministries along the an s live ir the speak into try or services as students provide minis r ou : ss ce pro ng rni the Marriage and ens in the lea most difficult cases in the of An amazing thing happ me so kle tac Summit House listen g students uals. Students living at s. Then, they offer a byproduct. Counselin ivid ind d an s ilie fam ng e sit , helpi a where their residenc Family Therapy Clinic ically impoverished are e a listening ear to om giv on or ec od an rho of bo s ed igh ne ne the to the in g din len for our students. a tool shed youth groups through a English lessons or build are in ce pla es tak weddings occur— cipleship burial services unfold, d, hurting neighbors. Dis he ac pre ile they t ge s on rm en, se lives of our students wh the in s su Je e Worship services happ se le op our students. Pe ministries performed by This process makes God smile. g. win are learning and gro probably don’t need t ministering now, they no are k y the if nts de tial stu skill, the heart of our tas I have often told poten ledge, character, and ow a kn or in ry ws na mi gro se nt a de n of seminary. As each stu beyond the imaginatio learn. organism that goes far nts ng de livi a stu o as int s ws lop gro ve t de e body of Chris Th . es sir de d Go at student into wh t becomes h the mission of Chris wit nt me ge ga en r Ou impacted. We we find fulfillment. region, and world are ity, un It is through them that mm co r ou , ter As they minis play a part. one of multiplication. t it is a joy to say we do bu , ns pla d’s Go in rt play a small pa
sfseminary.edu.
w. nt’s Blog online at ww Check out our Preside
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Fall 2010
‘74
The Rev. Randy Tschetter and his wife, Karla, live in Sioux Falls, SD. Randy has been serving as the Director of Church and Alumni Relations for Sioux Falls Seminary’s Leadership Foundation since 2004. In addition, Randy recently completed work on his Doctor of Ministry degree at SFS. In the section below, he shares some findings of his final project, which is titled Toward a Culture of Generosity Among Alumni of Sioux Falls Seminary.
Generosity as a Ministry by Rev. Randy Tschetter
fall 2010
contents 1
from the president
President Hagan talks about what is at the heart of Sioux Falls Seminary’s mission.
2
equipping . . .
4
We equip servant leaders. Read about the cross-country journey that new student Matthew Holmes took to answer his call.
serving . . .
annual report insert
prayer and praise
8
growing . . .
The 2009-2010 Annual Report for Sioux Falls Seminary reflects on year of prayer and praise.
Introducing sfsOmaha, an exciting new venture from Sioux Falls Seminary. Learn more about how we are bringing seminary education to the Omaha region.
10 sfs event calendar
Discover how Sioux Falls Seminary is serving the community, students, churches, individuals, and more:
.Second Annual Harvest Festival .January Term 2011 Preview .Straw Bale Shed to Become Tool Library .Young Christian Leaders Event Series .Community Development Collaboration .SFPS Serves Community and Churches .Summit House Receives Grant .Online Video Devotionals
Sioux Falls Seminary impact
Connect with SFS at upcoming events. Event listings are always available online at www.sfseminary.edu/events.
11 staying in touch
News, updates, and prayer requests from Sioux Falls Seminary alumni.
The impact is published by Sioux Falls Seminary two times per year for the benefit of the seminary community, friends, alumni, and supporters. Additional news and event information is distributed by e-mail throughout the year. To join our online news list, please visit www.sfseminary.edu/signup.php or call 800.440.6227 ext. 2703.
“I am a pastor, not a fundraiser.” That was my first response to an April 2004 phone call asking if I were interested in becoming a member of the Leadership Foundation at Sioux Falls Seminary. Like many others, I was a bit skeptical about the spiritual and ethical implications of being a “fundraiser.” Additionally, I was not sure that I had the skill, or the desire, to ask people for money. However, in the past six years, I have gained a fresh understanding of the importance of securing the financial resources needed to support a ministry like SFS which is committed to equipping servant leaders for the ministries of Christ. More importantly, I have become convinced that fundraising is not primarily about dollars and cents but rather about pastoral ministry—enabling God’s people to share in the joy and blessing of generosity. The challenges of funding this important ministry led me to a major research and writing project concerning the matter of generosity—especially as it relates to the alumni of Sioux Falls Seminary. Several themes emerged: •
Generosity is a matter of great interest in today’s culture as evidenced by both secular and Christian writers.
•
Biblical priorities for generosity include: Christians caring for other Christians, Christians caring for non-Christians, and support for those who are called to lead and teach.
•
Asking people to be generous requires a great deal of integrity. I concur with John Pearson’s challenge to Christian ministries: “We challenge donors to give liberally to kingdom causes. We urge prayerful giving to God’s work, not for tax benefits nor budget needs. We scrutinize our methodologies not against what works, but against God-honoring principles.” *
•
While there is no specific scriptural model for delivering theological education, the task of doing so continues to be one that’s filled with challenges and opportunities as administrators, educators, and students seek to be led by the Holy Spirit.
By a wide margin, alumni who were interviewed for this research indicated that their primary motivation for supporting SFS was commitment—commitment based on positive relationships developed with the seminary while they were students and as they are alumni. The task of “fundraising” is really “relationshipbuilding” among the seminary’s approximately 1100 living alumni and hundreds of other friends and partners in ministry. Realities like social networking and computer technologies can be useful in the matter of friendship building among people of certain demographics. For others, however, more traditional forms of relationship building are required. Generosity which is reflected in a variety of ways —financial support, student referrals, volunteerism, and more—will grow as SFS continues to care for its alumni and reaches out to the ministry needs of its many friends in building a culture of generosity.
*John W. Pearson, “Mastering the Management Buckets: 20 Critical Competencies for Leading Your Business or Non Profit,” (Ventura, CA: Regal Books, 2008).
‘10 (continued) Travis Lavender resides in Omaha, NE, and works at Christ for the City. He and his wife, Becky, welcomed Ian Lee Lavender to their family on August 10, 2010.
Sarah (Hagan) Loane married Rob Loane on Friday, August 13, 2010, at Trinity Baptist Church in Sioux Falls. The couple resides in Sioux Falls, SD.
Shawn Robinson and his wife, Katherine, are expecting their second child in April 2011. The baby will join their son William, who was born in December 2009. 13
Fall 2010
A North American Baptist Seminary
2100 S. Summit Ave.
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Sioux Falls, SD 57105
fall 2010
equipping leaders . . . transforming lives
with annual report insert Sioux Falls Seminary
800.440.6227 or 605.336.6588 info@sfseminary.edu
www.sfseminary.edu
Make an It is easier than you think! If you would like to help students prepare for ministry for generations to come, without it costing you a single cent during your lifetime, read on! By including Sioux Falls Seminary in your estate plans, you can endow a scholarship that will benefit students for years to come. For example, let’s say you choose to make a $25,000 designation in your will or trust to establish a scholarship endowment at the seminary. After your life, that money would be invested and the interest would provide $1,000 each year to a deserving student. It’s a great way to put your money to Kingdom use after you no longer need it. To find out more, please contact Benjamin Lee in the Leadership Foundation at Sioux Falls Seminary at 800.440.6227 or benlee@sfseminary.edu. If you have already included the seminary in your estate plans, please let us know so we can celebrate your generosity.
Stay in Touch
with Sioux
Falls Seminary
Staying in Touch, the former alumni e-newsletter, is published as part of the Impact magazine. We encourage you to stay in touch with us by sharing your current ministry role, family news, prayer requests, and more. To submit your updates, news, and prayer requests, please e-mail stayingintouch@sfseminary.edu, send us a message on Facebook, call 800.440.6227 ext. 2715, or visit www.sfseminary.edu/contact. To receive the latest news and event information by e-mail, please register online at www.sfseminary.edu/ signup.php. Sioux Falls Seminary impact
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Fall 2010