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GREAT post!  I would agree with most of what Karl addressed in the blog post.  While education is not a requirement for success, it can certainly be beneficial - professionally, personally and spiritually. 

I am nearing completion of my MA in Children's and Family Ministries through Bethel Seminary.  (I voted MA/Ministry above because I'm just 80 days from grad - but who's counting?)  This program has grown me in so many ways!  I have gained not only knowledge, but confidence.  I have learned so much about myself and who God has wired me to be.  I've met others in ministry who can relate to the joys/challenges that I experience and are now lifelong friends.  I've been given "tools" and skills to look at scripture with new eyes.  My calling has been affirmed.  I could go on and on... it's been an all around great experience for me.

Where Karl mentioned seeing a disconnect between seminary and practical ministry, that has not been my experience at Bethel.  The program is specifically designed for people just like me - those in ministry.  In nearly every class I have found aspects that I could use in my setting - if not with the kids, with the parents/volunteers or myself.

Bethel's degree program is a hybrid model, primarily distance, with 4 weeks/year spent on campus (2 weeks Fall/2 weeks Spring).  My church has been VERY supportive in allowing me to be gone for those weeks of intensives.  I have to say, though, that I couldn't do any of it without the support of my family as well.

I prayed about it and had conversations with my husband for two years before we felt like the time was right.  Each person is different in their journey.  If you feel that nudge from God - and your church and family are supportive - I'd say go for it!  It will change your life and your ministry!

GREAT post!  I would agree with most of what Karl addressed in the blog post.  While education is not a requirement for success, it can certainly be beneficial - professionally, personally and spiritually. 

I am nearing completion of my MA in Children's and Family Ministries through Bethel Seminary.  (I voted MA/Ministry above because I'm just 80 days from grad - but who's counting?)  This program has grown me in so many ways!  I have gained not only knowledge, but confidence.  I have learned so much about myself and who God has wired me to be.  I've met others in ministry who can relate to the joys/challenges that I experience and are now lifelong friends.  I've been given "tools" and skills to look at scripture with new eyes.  My calling has been affirmed.  I could go on and on... it's been an all around great experience for me.

Where Karl mentioned seeing a disconnect between seminary and practical ministry, that has not been my experience at Bethel.  The program is specifically designed for people just like me - those in ministry.  In nearly every class I have found aspects that I could use in my setting - if not with the kids, with the parents/volunteers or myself.

Bethel's degree program is a hybrid model, primarily distance, with 4 weeks/year spent on campus (2 weeks Fall/2 weeks Spring).  My church has been VERY supportive in allowing me to be gone for those weeks of intensives.  I have to say, though, that I couldn't do any of it without the support of my family as well.

I prayed about it and had conversations with my husband for two years before we felt like the time was right.  Each person is different in their journey.  If you feel that nudge from God - and your church and family are supportive - I'd say go for it!  It will change your life and your ministry!