Grace in Action
Finding a Community to Journey with
Orlando Chappell came to believe in Christ when he was still a high school student athlete. Even as he believed in Christ, he constantly had the feeling that something was still lacking. He was later reintroduced to the grace of God in a new light while playing collegiate football through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Grace in Action
Finding a Community to Journey with
Orlando Chappell came to believe in Christ when he was still a high school student athlete. Even as he believed in Christ, he constantly had the feeling that something was still lacking. He was later reintroduced to the grace of God in a new light while playing collegiate football through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay with Grace, and I believe that I benefited greatly from what Grace has to offer.
After graduation, he encountered challenges in obtaining employment. It was a difficult time for him as he was in his twenties and was set to tie the knot with his college sweetheart. Because different job opportunities kept closing on him, he began to feel that his desired career was out of reach. He shares that when he placed his focus in discerning with God instead of looking for jobs that aligned with his degree, doors began to open, and he was able to enter into a position that allowed him to provide for his family.
With Grace School of Theology partnering with churches and ministries, Orlando was able to be familiarized with Grace through Dr. Dave Anderson, the Founder and President of Grace, and Pastor Thomas Beavers, Senior Pastor of New Rising Star Church (Birmingham, Alabama). Orlando recalls that it took some time before he was able to finally decide to enroll and take full advantage of the opportunities provided by Grace—but he is really grateful that he did. God has heard his pleas and has orchestrated his every step to get to where he is now at Grace.
Grace School of Theology has had a significant impact on his life by broadening his horizons and enabling him to interact with fellow believers all around the world. One of the aspects of Grace that he values the most was the opportunity to participate in Grace’s Student Discipleship Groups. He experienced discipleship in the same manner that Christ did—through imputing Himself into others. Being able to meet and build relationships with various believers from all over the world has been a tremendous blessing. He expresses how it is exciting to witness the development, experiences, and stories of spiritual leaders from all over the world. Because of God’s Word and the prayers that are offered, relationships are formed and strengthened.
Orlando shares that it was comforting to know that there were people—fellow students, leaders, and professors, praying for him. They may not be experiencing the same circumstances as him but they always go out of their way to speak life upon him. He can see how each believer in the Grace community has an intimate relationship with God and they strive for the betterment of the Body as a whole. Each one is on the lookout for the things that God has in store for them.
Orlando believes that Grace has created feasible pathways for people who desire to attend seminary but may not have the financial capacity to do so. He himself is a testament to how God has made things possible through Grace. His Grace experience continues to reap a bountiful harvest in his ministry and his role as a parent and husband.
The Grace School of Theology degree programs and course progression are designed to better equip its students with sound biblical knowledge and practical ministry skills. When we have a firm foundation in the Scripture and are attuned to the leading of the Holy Spirit, it gives us the confidence to go forth, act, and share our testimony with others. Orlando shares that competency in navigating and teaching the Scriptures and intimately building relationships are the most impactful life skills he has honed from Grace.
Orlando encourages fellow believers to experience Grace School of Theology themselves and be equipped through accessible and quality theological education.
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