by Dr. Jeffrey A. Gill
Dean, Grace Theological Seminary
Grace Theological Seminary, Winona Lake, Ind., is celebrating its 70th anniversary during this school year. It is a great honor for those of us who minister here to continue the wonderful heritage of an uncompromised commitment to God’s inerrant Word. We are truly grateful to our founders: Dr. Alva J. McClain, Dr. Herman Hoyt, Dr. Homer Kent, Sr., and others who blazed the trail for the rest of us. Here’s a quote about our history from our current 2007-2009 catalog:
After the change in location in 1939 [from Akron, Ohio, to Winona Lake, Ind.], the seminary experienced steady growth, even during the years of World War II. New degree programs were offered, regional accreditation was achieved, and graduates went out to serve the Lord as pastors, missionaries, teachers, chaplains, and leaders in other types of Christian ministries around the world. Faculty members were kept busy, not only as effective classroom teachers and mentors, but also as visiting lecturers in other institutions, in churches, and in Bible conference ministries. The faculty of Grace Theological Seminary has authored scores of books, contributed many articles to scholarly and religious journals, and assisted in the production of Bible translations, such as the New American Standard Bible, the New International Version, the New King James Version, and the New Living Bible. (p. 5)
Celebrating our anniversary prompts us to look back at God’s blessings over the past 70 years. Certainly, many important changes have taken place. Faculty members have been added, facilities have improved, programs and degrees have been added, and technology has expanded our ministry capabilities. But the seminary’s founding principles and its commitment to God and His Word have not changed. These are the things that continue to attract quality men and women to the seminary.
There are many degree and training options available for the men and women who enter Grace Seminary today. Students can earn a Doctor of Ministry, Master of Divinity, or Master of Arts (residential or distance education) degree. Within those programs are specialized fields of study available to each student. There are also non-degree programs for students who wish to earn a certificate or diploma. On the horizon is an online initiative that will bring seminary classes to off-campus students. Eight full-time professors serve on the seminary faculty, along with two full-time staff members. They are joined by several part-time and adjunct professors.
Seventy years gives us a good perspective on God’s blessing and direction to Grace Seminary. We are thankful for our past and excited about our future. We are grateful for our students and alumni, and for faithful men and women (many from the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches) who have supported the ministry of the seminary with their prayers and gifts. We are humbled by the impact that the seminary and its alumni have had throughout the world. And, most importantly, we are thankful to God, who has directed and sustained us for seven decades.
Visit the seminary’s Web site at www.gts.grace.edu to read the winter issue of Grace Magazine, which will feature the school. If you or someone you know, would like more information on Grace Seminary, call Jim Hill, marketing and recruitment coordinator, at 1-800-54-GRACE, ext. 6435, or e-mail hilljm@grace.edu.
