Our first year at Ashland Theological Seminary is in the books…and what a year it was! Our studies were focused primarily on the Old Testament, beginning with a thorough look at Genesis through Deuteronomy, and continuing with a journey through each of the books of the prophets.
What a joy it was to see how God loved His faithful people throughout history. We also learned to read, write, and study the Bible in the original Hebrew language. While this was every bit as challenging as you might think, it revealed God’s word to us in ways that we could not have imagined. Year number two offers us Greek and the New Testament, as well as our first worship and ministry-related classes, and of course we can’t wait!
One of the most profound blessings of the last year has been the love and support we have received from friends, relatives, and especially our church family. God’s call to ministry was a rather unexpected detour which has put our lives in career and financial chaos. Through all of this, however, we have remained enthusiastic and confident that God will provide everything we need to continue on this path. We are so grateful for all of the prayers and encouragement we have received. Seeing your prayers at work in our lives this past year has been inspiring to say the least. We also deeply appreciate those who provided financial support to us. This has offered some relief to our economic stress, allowing us to focus on our studies.
As the beginning of our second year of seminary draws closer, we are eager to see how God will reveal more of Himself to us. We would like to ask for your prayers that God will continue to provide us with academic, financial, and marital blessings. Central College has recently set up a Seminary Support Fund to provide assistance with seminary expenses. Anyone wishing to contribute to this fund may do so via the weekly offering. Please write “Seminary Support” on the memo line of your check.
Thank you for your continued love and support.
In Christ’s Love, Kelle and Jim Alavi
