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GRADUATED CLASSES Class of 2004 Class of 2003
From Left to Right, Front row: Vonelle Kelly, M.T.S. Fiona Hill, M.T.S. Vic Votaw, M.T.S. Nate Binion, M.T.S. From Left to Right, Back row: Nate Turner, M.T.S. Marvin Mitchell, M.T.S. John Flowers, M.T.S.
From Left to Right: Kevin Crispo, M.T.S. Lisa (Nance) Reddy, M.Div. Andrea Thomas, M.T.S.
Class of 2006
Class of 2005
From Left to Right, Front row: Vernice Kelly, M.Div. Karla (Smith) Schnelting, M.T.S. Joey Peyton, M.Div. Brian Hollaway, M.T.S. Anita Corbitt, M.T.S.
From Left to Right: Joey Peyton, M.T.S. Josh Remington, M.Div. Toby Stevens, M.T.S. Chris Anderson, M.Div.
From Left to Right, Back row: Steve Smith, M.T.S. Kelly Zarate, M.T.S. Stephen Zarate, M.T.S. Herbert Brown, M.T.S. Marjorie Truman, M.Div. Harvey Collman, M.Div. Gary Erickson, M.T.S. Missing from the photo: Jessica Simpson, M.T.S.
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LIVINg HISTORY
Embarking upon this project, the committee knew about the rich heritage of the school from personal testimonies that have been shared throughout the years. We saw how graduates demonstrated such tremendous appreciation for their encounter with the only Oneness Pentecostal graduate school in North America. We, too, felt overwhelmed with a sense of privilege and responsibility for having been exposed to such anointed tutelage and a compelling Christlike community. From our inquisitive interviews with faculty and intimate testimonies from students, one thing has been consistent – Urshan Graduate School of Theology is a thriving community of authentic Apostolic believers, from its inception, over a decade ago, to our present day. What we have tried to capture in this publication is the reality that history is unfolding literally before our eyes. We are witnessing a history, a legacy, a precedent being set by a community of pioneers for the Oneness Pentecostal movement. Each person that is a part of the UGST family has contributed, in some fashion, to the institution’s success and, in a greater extent, to the advancement of Oneness Pentecostalism. To this we can only say, “Glory be to God.” We extend our gratitude to those who have gone before us and to those who will follow us. Thank you for your faithfulness, and thank you for all that you are doing for the Kingdom of God. Personally, I would like to commend the members of the yearbook committee for this completed book. I would also be negligent if I failed to thank each contributor for this yearbook, which really is a compilation of personal reflections and testimonies. Thank you to Barry Davis and Michael McCarty for capturing memorable and priceless moments artfully with your photography. Thank you to Bruce Elbeblawy for delivering such a brilliant and clever design. Thank you to Daniel Segraves and Garry Truman for your complementary oversight and thorough review of the final work. Without each of your contributions, this yearbook would be nonexistent. Larry Mazyck Student Body Historian
Yearbook Committee:
Front Row from Left to Right: Richie Johnson Chelsea Kiani Second Row from Left to Right: Rebecca Newton Margaret Ronia Third Row from Left to Right: Crystal Micko Larry Mazyck Back Row Luke Schmalz
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Reflection
on Our History
From its beginning, Urshan Graduate School of Theology has been making history. It is the only Apostolic graduate school in North America, and it is the first institution of higher learning in the United Pentecostal Church International to become accredited. It founded and currently hosts the Apostolic Fellowship Summit, the annual meeting of Oneness Pentecostal organizational leaders. Now it is poised to start the first UPCI-owned Christian undergraduate college. Its professors and alumni are breaking new ground in Pentecostal scholarship as well as in various ministry endeavors throughout North America and around the world. Through its regular and short-term classes, certificate program, and symposiums, it has become a unique forum for studying the Apostolic faith in an environment that is simultaneously academic and spiritual. It has also become a unique platform from which to represent and promote the Apostolic faith in venues beyond the UPCI. David K. Bernard President
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The first time I heard the proposal to establish a graduate school of theology to be owned and operated by the United Pentecostal Church International, I was attending a summer institute offered by the UPCI. The presenters were Timothy Dugas and James Littles. At that time, Timothy Dugas was the president of Gateway College of Evangelism and James Littles was the academic dean at the same school. I was impressed by the idea and happy to know that thought was being given to enhancing the educational offerings of the UPCI. Sometime later, I received a letter from David Bernard, who would be the president of Urshan Graduate School of Theology, inviting me to serve as a member of the adjunct faculty. I accepted and taught my first course – a study of Hebrews – during January 2002, the first year of the seminary’s operation. Daniel L. Segraves Dean of Administration and Academic Dean Professor of Biblical Studies
In 2001 the Gateway Library consisted of approximately ten thousand holdings. That summer the library moved to its present location on the second floor of a girls’ dormitory building. The collection had plenty of room in the five thousand square foot area. Shelving, study carrels, and other furnishings came primarily from area seminary libraries that were expanding and remodeling. By 2002 we had added a computer lab with Internet access. Today the collection contains over 53,000 holdings (about 38,000 titles) and utilizes the same floor space. Expansion efforts are underway once funds can be raised and earmarked for the project. Electronic resources have been incorporated into the collection. Membership in professional library associations affords students access to over ninety area libraries as a result of this collaboration and networking. There is concerted effort to refine and upgrade the collection with the acquisition of new and current titles in theology and Pentecostalism. Gerald L. Truman Dean of Students Director of Library Services
When I first heard of UGST, I had already matriculated in a Baptist university graduate program and was scheduled to take my first class in the summer of 2000. For many years I had offered a very public opinion with a ‘loud’ voice that the Oneness movement needed an accredited college and a graduate university. I was surprised to receive a letter from Bro. Bernard in 2000 announcing the founding of an Apostolic graduate school. Within weeks and days many of my friends, family, and fellow ministers, who knew of my plans to continue my education, called and wanted to know if (and how) this changed my plans (especially after being so vocal about the need). After much prayer and reflection, I felt I could not be true to who I was/am if I did not become a part of this God-ordained, historic event. The next eleven years at UGST have been true to the Apostolic message; truth taught, research started, and lived. This has truly been history in the making. Joey Peyton Director of Field Education
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Pioneering the Legacy
1. The initial full-time faculty members were: - James Littles - David Norris - Raymond Crownover - Gerald Truman 2. Classes began in September 2001. 3. The first classes offered during the fall semester of 2001 were: - Church History I, taught by Steven Beardsley - Foundations of Christian Education, taught by Raymond Crownover - Old Testament Foundations, taught by David Norris - Personal Spiritual Disciplines, taught by James Littles - Systematic Theology I, taught by David Norris 4. There were initially eleven on-campus students enrolled in the fall of 2001 who eventually earned a degree. Those students were: - Nate Binion, M.T.S., 2003 - Gary Erickson, M.Div., 2006 - John Flowers, M.T.S., 2003 - Fiona Hill, M.T.S., 2003 - Vonelle Kelly, M.T.S., 2003 - Marvin Mitchell, M.T.S., 2003 - Lisa (Nance) Reddy, M.Div., 2004 - Jessica Simpson, M.T.S., 2006 - Marjorie Truman, M.Div., 2006 - Nate Turner, M.T.S., 2003 - Vic Votaw, M.T.S., 2003 5. The first short term classes offered were facilitated in January 2002. The classes were: - Church Growth, taught by David Bernard - Studies in Hebrews, taught by Daniel Segraves - Theology of Prayer, taught by Thetus Tenney
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8. T here were initially five distance learners enrolled in the fall of 2002 who eventually earned a degree. Those students were: - Beth Baus, M.T.S., 2007 - Patrick Dotson, M.Div., 2011 - Brian Holloway, M.T.S., 2006 - John Martin, M.T.S., 2008 - Joey Peyton, M.Div., 2006 9. T he student body by-laws were drafted by John Flowers and ratified by the student body in November 2001. The first student body president, Marvin Mitchell, was elected in the spring of 2002. 10. T he first symposium was held in the spring of 2002, which primarily featured student papers and responses. 11. I n 2004, Lisa (Nance) Reddy became the first M.Div. student to graduate, thereby allowing UGST to begin the accreditation process with the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). 12. T he institution was granted Associate status with ATS in 2004. 13. I n the fall of 2004, Toby Stevens coordinated the first spiritual retreat, which took place at Grizzly Jack’s Resort located in Utica, Illinois. 14. I n the fall of 2005, Vinessa D’Sa, from Pakistan, became the first international student to matriculate. 15. T he first Apostolic Summit, where Oneness leaders from a variety of denominations meet together, was hosted at the symposium in 2006. 16. I n 2006, the first graduate to become a military chaplain was Steve Smith.
6. The distance learning program officially launched in the fall of 2002.
17. I n 2006, the first distance learning graduates were Anita Corbitt and Brian Hollaway.
7. The first classes offered via distance learning in the fall of 2002 were: - Old Testament Foundations, taught by David Norris - Orientation and Research, taught by Raymond Crownover - Personal Spiritual Disciplines, taught by James Littles - Pastoral Counseling, taught by Mark Segraves
18. T he institution was granted Candidate status with ATS in 2008, which made it possible to receive federal student aid and student visas. 19. U GST received full accreditation from ATS in June 2010, after a site visit in March 2010. 20. I n 2011, UGST acquired Gateway College of Evangelism with intentions of establishing a Christian college under the name Urshan College.
GRADUATED CLASSES Class of 2007 Class of 2008
From Left to Right, Front row: Everett Gossard, M.T.S. Beth Baus, M.T.S. DJ Porter, M.Div. From Left to Right, Back row: Eric Parekh, M.T.S. Melvin Reddy, M.T.S.
Class of 2009
From Left to Right, Front row: Steve Harris, M.T.S. Curt Fee, M.T.S. Vinessa D’Sa, M.Div. Mike Hall, M.Div. From Left to Right, Back row: Mike Krog, M.T.S. Norman Paslay, M.T.S. John Martin, M.T.S. Greg Norton, M.Div. Chris Anderson, M.Div.
Class of 2010
From Left to Right: Amanda (Rushing) Haeffner, M.Div. Crystal Reece, M.T.S.
Class of 2011
From Left to Right, Front row: Carolyn Harrington, M.T.S. Kiran (James) Yousef, M.T.S. Laura Jurek, M.T.S. Meg Harrington, M.Div. From Left to Right: Arthur Vanderhoff, M.T.S. Betsy Hoffman, M.Div. Patrick Dotson, M.Div. John Powell, M.T.S.
From Left to Right, Back row: Jereme Suey, M.T.S. Gwenitha Johnson, M.T.S.
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Board of Directors, Administration, Faculty, and Staff The inspiring group of people who are living legends, making UGST what it is today and what it will be in years to come.
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Board of Directors:
Front Row from Left to Right: Clifford Readout James Beardsley David K. Bernard Garth Hatheway Janet Trout Back Row from Left to Right: Bill Coltharp Clark Lott Rodney Pamer J. Mark Jordan Ron Mullings Evelyn Drury Paul Evans John Putnam Matthew Martin Jay Carney Daniel Flemming Members who are missing from the photo: Arnulfo Cedillo Stanley Gleason Ted Graves Darrell Johns Jerry Jones Robert Martin Albert Skaggs Ted Wagner Steve Willeford
DAVID K. Bernard President B.A., Rice University, 1978 J.D., University of Texas, 1981 M.Th., University of South Africa, 2006 Th.D. Candidate, University of South Africa
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UGST has provided a unique opportunity to train men and women for Apostolic ministry and leadership. It has also spurred my own pursuit of advanced theological education. Through opportunities to teach and to interact with Apostolic scholars, it has helped refine my theological views as well as the oral and written expression of them. As a pastor I benefited from members of our church receiving training from UGST and by having three UGST alumni come to our area to start two daughter works. As a district superintendent, I saw our district benefit from UGST certificate and chaplain classes. The experience of leading UGST and working with the UGST board has given me resources for leading the UPCI as general superintendent. UGST professors, alumni, and students have become a great resource for our headquarters operations and divisions, and they are enhancing and expanding our ministry around the world.
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Daniel L. Segraves Dean of Administration and Academic Dean Professor of Biblical Theology Diploma, Western Apostolic Bible College, 1967 B.A., Theological Studies, Gateway College of Evangelism, 1981 M.A., Exegetical Theology, Western Seminary, 1993 Th.M., Western Seminary, 2003 Ed.D., California Coast University, 1992 Ph.D., Regent University, 2011
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To interact with the learners at UGST is a richly rewarding experience. Whether studying on campus or online, these students – including pastors, missionaries, and those fresh from finishing their undergraduate degrees – are committed to spiritual growth and academic excellence. This challenges professors to daily spiritual renewal and academic integrity. There is no room for slothfulness in spiritual disciplines or to grow stale in our academic specializations. The interaction between professors as well as between staff and faculty is also a constant source of spiritual enrichment. All of us recognize the awesome opportunities and responsibilities placed before us and understand that we are called to faithfulness to God and submission to one another. The word “seminary” originates from a Latin word that means “seedbed.” We understand the significance of this ministry, and we are committed to being sure that the seed planted here produces healthy fruit for the kingdom of God.
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Marjorie Truman Director of Distance Learning Academic Assistant M.Div., Urshan Graduate School of Theology, 2006 M.S., Education, Lehman College, 2004 B.A., Liberal Arts, St. John’s College, 1998
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I derive my personal mission statement for distance learners from Paul’s words to those who were far from him in terms of geography, “I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself” (Col. 2:2, NLT). However, this is not a mission I can accomplish on my own. Thus, I am grateful for UGST’s commitment to 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 in both theory and practice: “There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us.” This encourages and challenges each of us to remember that our distinctions are derived from that which we hold common and therefore do not distance us.
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Jeffrey E. Brickle Associate Professor of Biblical Studies A.L.B., Harvard University, 1994 M.A., Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, 1999 Ph.D., Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, 2010
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UGST has truly been a gift from God in my life! There were no apostolic graduate institutions during the 1980’s and 90’s when I sensed a calling to pursue a profession in academia. UGST’s formation was indeed a miracle and perfectly timed. During my tenure as a professor I have greatly appreciated my interactions with colleagues, students, and staff. The UGST community is a close-knit family and a wonderful communication partner with which to engage in rich and sometimes challenging theological discussion. UGST has provided a safe haven and encouraging atmosphere in which each member can explore and further develop his or her ministerial calling and giftings. I am very thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this God-ordained institution and to play a role in the formation and training of ministers of the gospel who are impacting our world for Jesus Christ. Thank God for UGST!
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James A. Littles, Jr. Professor of Practical Theology B.S.Ed., State University of New York at Fredonia, 1982 M.S.Ed., State University of New York at Fredonia, 1989 M.Div., Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, 1993 Ph.D., University of Delaware, 2003
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Since the genesis of UGST, I have felt privileged to witness the first Apostolic seminary pioneered into formation. The concept was only a dream prior to the year of 1999; however, the actions executed at the UPCI general conference that year propelled this dream into a surreal experience. I cherish dearly and find deeply rewarding many chapters to the institution’s history: aiding passionate pupils to fulfill their calling, cheering for the first graduating class, serving alongside spiritually gifted colleagues, and celebrating the inspirational journey. Thanks to an upbringing by home missionaries, I easily resonate with the emotional peaks and pits that come with launching a seminary. I find exhilaration and humility while reminiscing over my tenure at UGST. It often feels comforting to know that I am making a difference, leaving a mark, and seeing new possibilities realized. I can recall a number of times when I literally walked out of the building, basking in the sunlight, and pondering, “I can’t believe that I get to do this.”
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Cynthia A. Miller Lecturer in Practical Theology B.A.S.Sc., Thomas Edison State College, 1998 M.S., Philadelphia College of the Bible, 2000 Ph.D. Candidate, Liberty University
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David Norris first introduced me to Urshan Graduate School of Theology in 2001. Becoming part of the UGST family has enriched my life. Through the years, class after class, the students have challenged me to grow and develop as an instructor, minister, and counselor. Each class brings an equal amount of tears, laughter, and illumination as we journey together, into the secret places of the heart, for life changing experiences. To share that journey with such amazing men and women is a privilege.
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David S. Norris Professor of Biblical Theology Diploma, Apostolic Bible Institute, 1975 B.A., Neumann College, 1989 M.A.T.S., Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, 1992 Ph.D., Temple University, 2000
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Call me “Doubting Thomas,” but no one was actually more surprised than me when Urshan Graduate School of Theology came into existence. I am very grateful for those who have sacrificed to make the school a reality. The seminary has gifted me with the opportunity to invest into the lives of those who are making a difference. It has allowed me space to research and write. It has offered times of personal reflection, opportunities for “aha” moments as I study, and special times in the classroom where God has particularly made His presence known. I’m thankful for deep friendships with teaching colleagues, students, and alumni. We at UGST are blessed by the leadership of the school, those who stand on the past while creatively dreaming about the future; believing for God’s best, not just for ourselves, but for the larger movement to which we belong.
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Joey Peyton Director of Field Education A.S., University of Alaska, 1993 B.S., B.A. Wayland Baptist University 1998 M.T.S., Urshan Graduate School of Theology, 2005 M.Div., Urshan Graduate School of Theology, 2006 D.Min. Candidate, Eden Theological Seminary
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UGST and I have been walking together since the year 2000. I matriculated before the first UGST class started and took my first J-Term class in January 2001. I served as the Student Body President for the 2005-2006 school year. I continued my education after leaving UGST, first at Barnes Jewish St. Peters Hospital in the Clinical Pastoral Education program for two years and second, I went to Eden Theological Seminary in 2008 to begin my doctorate. During this time I was active as a UGST Alumnus and attended most of the UGST highlight events each year. Finally, I returned to UGST as the Director of Field Education in January of 2010. For eleven ‘long’ years now UGST and I have walked together, and it is hard to imagine life without the UGST family. They have been years of growth, blessing, and learning together with the greatest minds in Oneness Pentecostalism. I am truly grateful for the opportunities that have been provided for me, first by God, and second (as the hand of God) by UGST.
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Gerald L. Truman Dean of Students
| Director of Library Services
Diploma, Apostolic Bible Institute, 1965 B.S.Ed., Indiana University, 1975 M.S.B.A., Boston University, 1987 M.L.S., Indiana University, 2001
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When UGST began operations I was still in library school. That first year I completed my degree doing an internship at Eden Webster Library and commuting to Indianapolis every Friday for classes. We reclassified the collection from Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) to Library of Congress Classification (LOC) – a major undertaking since every item needed relabeling. (Thanks to the entire student body this was accomplished in one week with long hours.) We needed to upgrade and change the integrated library system (ILS) to one that would accommodate an online public access catalog (OPAC) and also allow us to import and export machine readable cataloging (MARC) records. This required two migrations of the data with some difficult and detailed editing. During this time we were growing by 3 to 4 thousand holdings each year. As school was starting in 2005 a computer burped somewhere and we lost all of our records. The worst day of my UGST experience! Everything was rebuilt in one year with a lot of hard work from family, students, and volunteers! The happiest day came when the accreditation team gave us a good report and shared compliments for an impossible task that has turned out well.
Daniel Butler
Nicolas Cohen
Adjunct Professor
Adjunct Professor
B.S., Purdue University, 1978 M.A., Vanguard University, 2000 D.Min. Candidate, Fuller Theological Seminary
B.A., University of Delaware, 2001 M.T.S., Harvard Divinity School, 2003 Ph.D., Boston College, 2011
Raymond L. Crownover
Roy A. Fisher
Adjunct Professor
Adjunct Professor
B.A., University of Missouri, 1978 B.A., Gateway College of Evangelism, 1982 M.Ed., University of Missouri, 1988 Ph.D., University of Missouri, 1993
B.S., California State University at Chico, 2001 M.A., Graduate Theological Union at Berkeley, 2003 Ph.D. Candidate, University of California at Berkeley
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Jack C. Garrison
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Robin Johnston
Adjunct Professor
Adjunct Professor
B.S., Phillips University, 1971 M.Ed., Phillips University, 1974 M.L.S., Oklahoma University, 1985 M.Div., Phillips Graduate Seminary, 1993 D.Min., Phillips Theological Seminary, 1999
B.A., Gateway College of Evangelism, 1979 M.A.T.S., Covenant Theological Seminary, 2001 Ph.D., Regent University, 2010
Tom O’Daniel
Chris Paris
Adjunct Professor
Adjunct Professor
Diploma, Conquerors Bible College, 1973 B.A., Global University, 1987 M.A., Azusa Pacific University, 1991 Ed.D., The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2005
B.A., Western Kentucky University, 1994 M.A., Western Kentucky University, 1997 M.T.S., Vanderbilt Divinity School, 2005 Ph.D., Vanderbilt University, 2012
John Larson
Cheryl Marks
Director of Development
Custodian
Rhonda Morley
Karen Peyton
Director of Admissions Business Manager
Ashley Reever Finance & Admissions Assistant
Library Cataloger Financial Aid Assistant
C. Gayle Yoder Registrar | Administrative Assistant 15
The student body at Urshan Graduate School of Theology remains true to its Apostolic heritage with a student population that is as diverse as the early church. UGST is an environment that is dedicated to promoting and cultivating diversity in gender, race, ethnicity, and Spirit-giftedness amongst the student body. Each student seeks to fulfill God’s distinct calling on his or her life. Some students are enrolled at UGST as they discover and prepare for future full-time ministries, while others are taking courses and serving in ministerial roles concurrently. Upon surveying the students, one will find that they are actively engaged in a variety of ministries that include church planting, leading worship, counseling, teaching, and ministering to all ages.
Fall 2011- Spring 2012
STUDENT BODY
Ahmadpour, Arash Ahrens, Ann Allen, Robert Amsden, Patty Baggett III, Robert Bilbrey, Darrel Bowe, Greg Boyd-Washington, Shirley Brannon, Danielle Buchanan, Frank Byers, Blake Canter, Chris Capacio, Mary Coss, Roger Craft, Rick Dabbs, Lionel DeAngelo, Nick Edwards, Joshua Enriquez, Jonathan Farr, Latunya Fee, Dana Ferguson, Kim 16
Gleason, Stan Goray, Katharine Green, Christopher Henson, Tim Heron, Errol Jadrnicek, Rob Johnson, Matthew Johnson, Richie Junker, John Kiani, Chelsea Kim, E. J. Kobia, Kofi Koren, Daniel MacDonald, Amber Mazyck, Larry McCurrach, Jennifer Medina, G. Jorge Micko, Crystal Millette, Lynne Miyamoto, Nerizza Newton, Rebecca Patton, K. T.
Protzman, Alex Pruett, April Rapp, Donna Rice, Justin Rich, Josephine Riley, Joel Ronia, Margaret Sartin, M. Keith Schmalz, Luke Schobert, Steven Seymour, Rapheal Shaffer, Michelle Simmons, Seth Snider, Timothy Stickler, Shawn Streety, Rebecca Trimble, Tom Verdugo-Esparza, Lydiett Wire, Michelle Wittmeier, Nathan
Arash M. Ahmadpour
Ann Ahrens
Florissant, Missouri, United States
Florissant, Missouri, United States
B.A., Finance
B.A., Church Music M.A., Piano Pedagogy and Performance
Pursuing: M.Div.
Pursuing: M.T.S.
Field(s) of Ministry: Sunday School Teacher Worship Leader Preacher
Field(s) of Ministry: Music ministry Reflection: UGST has taught me to see my current ministry (music education) through a Biblical lens, which has caused me to reevaluate my philosophies and viewpoints, bringing them in line with Scripture.
Reflection: My sermons have more depth and meaning in them, and I have a better understanding of my gifts and callings.
Robert W. Allen
Patty Amsden
Robert A. Baggett, III
Florissant, Missouri, United States
Henderson, Nevada, United States
Belleville, Michigan, United States
B.A., Biblical Studies
B.S., Education Human Services M.A., Education Counseling
Pursuing: M.Div.
A.S., Business Administration B.S., Workforce Education
Pursuing: M.Div. Field(s) of Ministry: Associate Pastor of Greater Bible Way Temple Head Chaplain of the GBWT Chaplain Ministry Ann Arbor Police Department Chaplain Reflection: I currently minister in the capacity as a chaplain and associate pastor of GBWT, UGST has helped me to become more knowledgeable in obtaining a more comprehensive view of the Word of God using multiple methods to better minister to whom I preach and teach the Gospel.
Field(s) of Ministry: Nursing Home Ministry Toddler Sunday School Teacher Reflection: UGST has provided an opportunity to sharpen research and writing skills that will hopefully be used in writing books with an apostolic world view.
Pursuing: M.T.S Field(s) of Ministry: Director of Systems and Grounds Deacon Reflection: Though a deacon of 15 years, I only recently learned of UGST through Dr. Bernard’s bio in The Oneness of God, a finding which directly influenced my decision to continue service and education with a degree that preserves the sound doctrine of the Apostolic faith.
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Shirley Boyd-Washington
Danielle Brannon
Saint Louis, Missouri, United States
Florissant, Missouri, United States
B.A., Religion B.S., Psychology M.A., Counseling
B.C.M., Elementary Education Pursuing: M.A.C.M. Field(s) of Ministry: Music ministry
Pursuing: M.Div. Field(s) of Ministry: Associate Minister Coordinator for New Discipleship Classes Discipleship Teacher
Reflection: I teach sometimes in my local church and UGST has helped me to become a more rounded teacher.
Reflection: I’m responsible for having teachers to cover all new member classes weekly, and I’ve learned to allow room for people to grow.
Frank Buchanan II
Lionel Dabbs
Joplin, Missouri, United States
Athens, Alabama, United States
Singapore
B.A., Accounting
B.S., Chemistry B.S., Education M.A., School Administration & Supervision Ed.D., Educational Leadership Learning Instructional Process
B.A., English B.A., Biblical Studies
Pursuing: M.T.S. Field(s) of Ministry: Lead Pastor Reflection: UGST has aided me in attempting to equip, challenge and prepare people for work in the Kingdom of God.
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Rick Craft
Pursuing: M.T.S. Field(s) of Ministry: Senior Pastor Reflection: UGST has broadened my spiritual and academic perspectives, enabling me to better lead and feed the sheep of God’s flock in Athens.
Pursuing: M.T.S Field(s) of Ministry: UPCI Missionary to Singapore Reflection: UGST has helped enhance my ability to study and teach the Word of God, and this ability is critical in helping my family successfully train up a generation of Apostolic church planters and leaders in Singapore who are called of God to impact SE Asia and beyond.
Nick DeAngelo
Joshua L. Edwards
West Palm Beach, Florida, United States
Oxford, Pennsylvania, United States
B.A., Religion
B.A., History
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Field(s) of Ministry: Youth Leader
Field(s) of Ministry: Church Planter | Preacher | Teacher Pastor | Evangelist | Preliminary Leader Sound Equipment Technician | Musician
Reflection: UGST has provided me with exposure to the most brilliant minds of our movement, challenging me to become a better preacher and person.
Latunya M. Farr
Reflection: I am currently spearheading a church plant in the NJ/DE District (mother/daughter work concept) and UGST is aiding me in the process and practice of “rightly dividing the Word of Truth” in my life and in the lives of others.
Dana J. Fee
Kim Lesley Ferguson
Saint Louis, Missouri, United States
Davenport, Iowa, United States
Hazelwood, Missouri, United States
B.A., Business Administration M.S., Human Resource Management
B.A., French and Linguistics M.A., Education
B.S.W. M.S.W.
Pursuing: M.T.S.
Pursuing: M.T.S.
Pursuing: M.T.S.
Field(s) of Ministry: Director of Evangelism/Outreach Ministry Bethesda Temple Bible Institute, Professor Bethesda Temple Church Ministerial Alliance
Field(s) of Ministry: Pastoral Assistant Sunday School Teacher (adults and children) Counselor
Field(s) of Ministry: Bethesda Temple Church Ministerial Alliance Children’s Ministry Fellowship Committee Baptism Committee
Reflection: UGST has played a significant role in my finding my place in God’s Plan; currently, I am focused on expanding the kingdom of God by spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ to those who are outside the church walls, both domestically and internationally.
Reflection: I thank God for my journey at UGST where I have experienced personal growth towards becoming a healthier Christian, and enjoyed the richness of belonging in community, and have developed valuable ministry skills of teaching, counseling and caring for people to further God’s Kingdom.
Reflection: While attending UGST, the calling on my life has been made plain and I have accepted the call to preach.
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Stan O. Gleason
Katharine C. Goray
Lee’s Summit, Missouri, United States
Madison, Wisconsin, United States
B.A., Theology
B.S., Art Education M.S., Art Education
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Field(s) of Ministry: Senior Pastor, The Life Church, Kansas City, Missouri
Field(s) of Ministry: Christian Education Director Women’s Ministry Choir
Reflection: UGST has exponentially expanded my knowledge of scripture and added richness to my life and ministry presentation.
Christopher Green
Tim Henson
Errol Heron
Saint Louis, Missouri, United States
Paw Paw, Michigan, United States
Brampton, Ontario, Canada
B.A., Marketing Communication
A.S., Liberal Arts B.C.M., Biblical Studies
M.Ed., Psychology
Pursuing: M.Div. Field(s) of Ministry: Pastoral Intern at Winds of Pentecost Reflection: UGST has provided me the opportunity to better understand and fulfill my calling beyond social, cultural, and individual limits.
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Reflection: UGST is preparing me to take the multiple experiences and gifts and combine what I do in the secular educational world and the church body to work within multi-cultural foreign or urban missions.
Pursuing: M.T.S. Reflection: The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Luke 4:18-19).
Pursuing: M.T.S Field(s) of Ministry: Director of Outreach Reflection: Given that I have only just started my degree at UGST, there is, as yet, no discernable impact that my studies have had on my efforts to provide leadership for the several daughter churches and in house departments at the church that I attend.
Rob Jadrnicek
Matthew Johnson
Caledonia, Wisconsin, United States
Pensacola, Florida, United States
B.S., Public Administration M.S., Organizational Management
B.S., Mechanical Engineering Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Field(s) of Ministry: Student / Family Pastor
Field(s) of Ministry: Lead Pastor, LifePoint Church, Mukwonago, Wisconsin
Reflection: Because of my UGST journey I am more confident in an Apostolic hermeneutic, I am more committed to the mission of the Church, and I am more available to the redeeming work of God’s Spirit in my life and the lives of those He has sent me to serve.
Reflection: UGST has been a wanted exposure to the foundational intricacies of Theology as I, following Jesus Christ, am presented with the privilege and responsibility of leading LifePoint Church in ministry and outreach to the Mukwonago community.
Richie Johnson
Chelsea Kiani
Florissant, Missouri, United States
Florissant, Missouri, United States
B.A., Music Education
B.S.W.
Pursuing: M.Div.
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Reflection: I hope to acquire my M.Div. and serve in the United States Army as an Apostolic Chaplain.
Reflection: God has led me in areas of ministry such as social work, missions, community outreach, music, teaching, and my time here at UGST has furthered my insight into what it truly means to be a part of the Kingdom and how to further His kingdom in every ministry He has called us to do.
E. J. Kim
Kwang Myong City, Kyonggi Do, South Korea
B. S., Business Administration Pursuing: M.A.C.M. Field(s) of Ministry: Preacher Teacher President of Bible School Reflection: I am the president of our UPC Bible School in South Korea, possessing the responsibility of teaching, preaching, etc.
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Kofi Kobia
Daniel Koren
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Neosho, Missouri, United States
B.A., History and Sociology M.A., International Affairs
B.A., English Pursuing: M.T.S.
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Field(s) of Ministry: Pastor of Living Springs UPC
Field(s) of Ministry: Department Head of Young Adults Worship Leader
Reflection: My studies at UGST have added depth to the devotionals, lessons, and books the Lord has called me to write.
Reflection: UGST has had a tremendous impact on my life and my ministry; it has increased my knowledge, deepened my faith, and fuelled my desire to be a faithful Christ follower.
Larry Mazyck
G. Jorge Medina
Saint Charles, Missouri, United States
Katy, Texas, United States
Houston, Texas, United States
B.S., Computer Engineering
B.A., Psychology M.A., Psychology
D.Min.
Pursuing: M.T.S. Field(s) of Ministry: Usher Greeter Transportation Specialist Teacher Singles Ministry Team Member Reflection: UGST has broadened my perspective on how creatively God uses Spirit-gifted believers to disciple others.
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Jennifer McCurrach
Pursuing: M.A.C.M. Field(s) of Ministry: Music Ministry Counseling Services Reflection: I am learning more about biblically based counseling and pastoral care at UGST to enhance my ministry, Critical Care Ministry, which provides counseling, training and support to pastors and ministers.
Pursuing: M.T.S Field(s) of Ministry: Outreach and Discipleship Director Teacher Evangelist Published Author Bible School Instructor Founder and Director of Defenders of the Faith Reflection: UGST has revolutionized the way I research, write and study; its professors have expanded my mind to grasp the endless possibilities and rewards of theological study.
Crystal Micko
Rebecca Newton
Saint Louis, Missouri, United States
Hazelwood, Missouri, United States
B.A., Interdisciplinary Humanities B.A., History
B.A., English Pursuing: M.T.S.
Pursuing: M.Div.
Reflection: Studying at UGST has given me a more holistic understanding of my faith and a greater appreciation for our Pentecostal heritage.
Field(s) of Ministry: UGST Student Body President Hospital Chaplain Intern Reflection: The opportunity to learn and serve at UGST has helped me grow spiritually, continues to open up God’s calling and purpose in my life, and has integrated me into a powerful and life changing community of faith.
K. T. Patton, Sr.
April Pruett
Joel Riley
Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Florissant, Missouri, United States
Berkley, Michigan, United States
B.S., Business Administration
B.S., Bible and Christian Ministry
B.A., Political Science
Pursuing: M.T.S.
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Pursuing: M.T.S.
Field(s) of Ministry: Pastor
Field(s) of Ministry: Teacher Small Group Facilitator
Field(s) of Ministry: Ad hoc minister
Reflection: UGST provides me with the support I need as I work in the ministry and pursue my desire to attend seminary.
Reflection: I do a lot of teaching and UGST has taught me how to make effective lessons and present in a way that shares the Gospel of Christ.
Reflection: The one thing that I will always carry with me from UGST, is that it showed me how to strive towards Christ with honesty, earnestness, and sincerity.
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Margaret Thomas Ronia
Luke M. Schmalz
Cochin, Kerala, India
Appleton, Wisconsin, United States
B.S., Biotechnology M.S., Biological Science Research
B.A., History Pursuing: M.Div.
Pursuing: M.Div.
Reflection: UGST has helped me truly love God with all my heart, soul, and mind, thereby preparing me to help fulfill the mission of the church.
Field(s) of Ministry: Home Friendship Group Contributor Reflection: UGST taught me how to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and fulfill my mission in this world for His Kingdom regardless of any circumstances.
Steven Schobert
Michelle Shaffer
Dallas, Texas, United States
Saint Louis, Missouri, United States
Hazelwood, Missouri, United States
B.A., Theology/Missions
B.S., Accounting M.B.A., Finance
Pharm.D.
Pursuing: M.A.C.M Field(s) of Ministry: Associate Pastor, North Cities UPC Director of Global Operations, Purpose Institute Reflection: The community of apostolic scholars at UGST continues to challenge and inspire me to serve God’s people and live out His mission.
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Rapheal Seymour
Pursuing: M.Div. Field(s) of Ministry: Adjutant Deacon Sunday school Teacher Hospice Chaplin volunteer Reflection: UGST has enhanced my efforts by giving more light on Pentecostal doctrine and has caused me to be more deliberate in my over all conversation in service to others.
Pursuing: M.Div. Field(s) of Ministry: Youth Sunday School Teacher Audio Engineer Ladies Teacher Reflection: My ministry opportunities this year have consisted of biblical teaching, which has been enhanced by the exegetical skills I have learned at UGST.
Rebecca Mendizabal Streety
Tom Trimble
Houston, Texas, United States
Dardenne Prairie, Missouri, United States
B.S., Bilingual Education
Diploma, Theology
Pursuing: M.Div.
Pursuing: M.A.C.M.
Field(s) of Ministry: Youth Ministry Team Member
Field(s) of Ministry: YSenior Pastor, Winds of Pentecost, Saint Charles, MO
Reflection: UGST has equipped me to study the Word of God, causing me to grow and mature in my relationship with Christ and others.
Lydiett Verdugo-Esparza
Reflection: Working to improve in the areas of biblical competence and practical theology in my studies at UGST has contributed to my efforts to meet the changing challenges of being a Senior Pastor in the twenty-first century.
Michelle Wire
Nathan Wittmeier
Montebello, California, United States
Florissant, Missouri, United States
Brandon, Manitoba, Canada
B.S., Business Management
B.A., Psychology
B.Eng., Civil Engineering
Pursuing: M.T.S.
Pursuing: M.Div.
Pursuing: M.T.S.
Field(s) of Ministry: Member of Church Board Member of Church Financial Committee Spanish Ministry
Field(s) of Ministry: Young Adult Minister
Field(s) of Ministry: Assistant & Student Pastor
Reflection: UGST is helping me to gain an even deeper appreciation of the Word of God as I continue to allow the Lord to shape and mold my life and my ministry.
Reflection: UGST has revolutionized my understanding and ability to minister through preaching, teaching and counseling, and has impacted every part of my personal life.
Reflection: UGST has broadened my understanding of ecclesiology and biblical foundations instrumental in personal growth, preaching the Word of God and giving bible studies.
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GIFTED
FOR MINISTRY
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Serving as the Student Body President for the past two years has allowed me the opportunity to take part in and see the spiritual giftedness of the UGST community. Through spiritual retreats, student government meetings, chapel services, outreach opportunities, and fellowship through lunches and late night dinners, I have seen God at work in our seminary. It’s amazing how students from all over the world have gathered at UGST and have found a unity in Jesus Christ. While the dreams and callings may differ, God has brought us together for this special time and season in our lives. It is my hope and desire the community we experience here at UGST will continue on wherever we are and go. May the Holy Spirit continue to bring unity, love, peace, hope, courage, strength, and renewal for the journey on which He has called us. Crystal Micko Student Body President
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Classes at UGST Much more than a mere academic experience.
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While regular classes are extended throughout a semester, an appealing facet about the UGST community and academic experience is its portfolio of short term classes, which are offered at the beginning and ending of each semester. This academic year, the short term classes were both insightfully educational and richly rewarding. In the summer of 2011, students learned a host of topics ranging from the women noted in Pauline writings, the historical development of Christianity, the essence of Christian ethics, and the need for clear biblical hermeneutics. In January 2012, students delved into a study of 20th century Pentecostalism, Jewish literature of the Second Temple period, and the Holy Spirit’s operation both historically and presently. Whether as a distance learner making the periodic pilgrimage to the campus or as a resident student acclimated to Saint Louis, amiable fellowship and memorable exchanges were enjoyed by all. The short term classes at UGST afford the student body an opportunity to earn credit hours towards a variety of degrees through an intense week of engaging lectures, studious participation, and unforgettable memories proceeded and followed by rigorous assignments. The short term classes for this school year were no exceptions to this rule. Larry Mazyck Student Body Distance Learning Officer
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The Graduates of 2011
Master of Theological Studies John Matthew Powell Arthur Theron Vanderhoff III Master of Divinity Patrick Michael Dotson Betsy Olga Hoffman
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UGST Alumni are distinguished people. Among these elite are church planters, authors, principals, chaplains, teachers, missionaries, pastors, musicians, executives, and a variety of other ministries. Each alumnus has been equipped and inspired by the UGST experience. This institution is creating a battalion of forces who are advancing the kingdom around the world. UGST provides Oneness Apostolic training to meet the challenge of this generation. UGST can help you find your ministry, enhance your ministry, secure the anointing, acquire a biblical education, develop critical thinking skills, and acquire a vision for the future. Gary D. Erickson UGST Alumni President
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The UGST admissions department has attended UPCI conferences for several years, actively pursuing interested candidates and serving as an outlet for answering questions about the school. At North American Youth Congress 2011, held in Columbus, Ohio, staff, existing and prospective students, as well as alumni, funneled to the UGST booth. Friends and administrators also swung by the booth to affirm their support. The school’s placement at these conferences has served as a brilliant advertising tool and opportunity to gain exposure to its key demographic.
Conferences
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Symposium 2011
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Community Events
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Why does UGST take the time to host so many extracurricular activities? With all the work that comes with being in graduate school and each person having his or her own life, why would we plan more things to do? It is because we believe that it is important to spend time together beyond the classroom. One of the things that UGST prides itself upon is its sense of community, its sense of being a family. But, becoming a community does not just happen without genuine effort. It is the direct result of possessing a united purpose and the byproduct of spending precious time with one another. Such community-building activities range from a simple trip to the zoo to investing time in outreach at a home mission church. In this world, it is easy to stay busy living our day-to-day routine. It is only the result of purposeful effort to spend time together that forms community. I am thankful to the many that help make UGST an inspiring community for all. Luke Schmalz Student Body Activities Officer
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Fall retreat was held at Cuivre River State Park, Camp Cuivre, while the spring retreat was held at Trout Lodge in Potosi, Missouri.
Spiritual
Retreats
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As the Student Body Vice President, responsibility lies with me for creating the theme and coordinating both the fall and spring spiritual retreats. UGST spiritual retreats are a time when students and faculty assemble to some remote location to embrace our need for spiritual rejuvenation together. After praying for direction, I felt led to emphasize the spiritual need of unity as the theme for our fall retreat. Our sessions were centered on the necessity of unity within the student body as well as the church body. Unity is expressed throughout the Bible as a means to establish a closer relationship with our Creator. For the spring retreat the sessions were focused on renewal. We had the chance to escape from our busy lives with the hope of receiving spiritual and physical renewal through rest, reflection, prayer, and fellowship. If we want to keep from being conformed by this world then we must be transformed by the renewing of our mind. Our spiritual retreats have been a blessing to the UGST community, and I encourage everyone who is a part of UGST to attend both of these getaways. Chris Green Student Body Vice President
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