After their mission work in Nicaragua, Ann realized the need to grow more in her understanding of God’s Word and be more equipped to minister to different people. She discovered Grace School of Theology through her husband’s missionary friend and decided to enroll first in the Master of Ministry (MM) program. Then, after graduating in 2021, her passion for learning grew stronger. So she decided to pursue a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (MABS) degree to gain a more solid foundation in understanding the Scriptures.

It became possible for Ann to pursue two degrees because education costs at Grace are not too high compared to other seminaries. Moreover, as a retired Navy Chief, she was able to apply for military financial programs for Veterans to finance part of her study. And even though she has to partially pay out of pocket for some classes, the cost is still affordable.

“I never had to worry about the finances, and the school was very easy to work with concerning the military financial programs for Veterans.”

Ann’s learning journey at Grace has not been smooth sailing all the way. There was a time wherein she experienced a traumatic situation that put her resilience as a student to the test. But she managed to get through because of God’s providence and support from her Grace family. During that time, she felt compassion from her professors and discipleship group, who reached out to her and offered to pray for her and her family.

Her classes in Ministry Stewardship taught her not just about being the Lord’s selfless servant but also about being a good steward when it comes to using possessions and finances. She learned about basic money management, giving, saving, and investing—topics that ministers are not usually immersed in learning. The course also taught her how to get out of additional financial obligations. As a result, she was able to reduce her family’s debt—a financial testimony she is proud to share with others!

Ann also found many real-world applications in her study that she can use daily. For example, in her Conflict Resolution class, she learned about the dynamics involved in relationships. As a result, she understood how she could have boundaries and unconditional love at the same time, which is very important to learn and apply to any relationship.

If you share the same heart for the lost as Ann, Grace can help provide you with the needed education and training to be more equipped to share the love of Christ to people who are yet to know Him. Learn more about Grace’s program offerings through its website.