Grace fits all the checkboxes of what Jason is looking for in a seminary that offers a chaplaincy program. Aside from its curriculum that integrates Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), it is also recognized by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and other accrediting bodies. This is vital because having a degree with multiple accreditations nationally and internationally is usually required to work in government institutions.

The discipleship program of Grace also helped a lot in managing his emotions and getting through this challenging moment of his life. In the student discipleship group where he was in, he had the chance to be “vulnerable to other people” while simultaneously being himself. He learned important lessons about pain and suffering and how God can still use these circumstances to bless us and be a testimony to others.

Jason points to three classes that elevated his life and ministry. First, Spiritual Life with Dr. Ken Wilson challenged him to “live out” his faith and be a more faithful man for his family. It emphasizes the importance of having a healthy prayer life, delving into the Scripture, and exercising Christ’s teachings to the people surrounding him. Expository Preaching with Dr. Mark Haywood impacted Jason’s pastoral ministry. It taught him the importance of preaching biblically and how to prepare the text for preaching and teaching. According to Jason, “taking the extra step” pays “dividends” for his congregation. And lastly, the Issues in Chaplaincy class with Chaplain Ken Schlenker impacted his life by teaching him the very purpose of chaplaincy. He learned that being a military chaplain will expose him to people with various backgrounds, dynamics, and issues. The challenge is to “meet people where they are” and not be judgmental about their situations.