Student & Alumni Stories
Grace in Action
From transforming inner-city communities in Houston, Texas, to planting churches in the mountains of Nepal, Grace School of Theology students and alumni are creating ripples of grace in over forty nations, teaching and living out the love of Christ, a love that cannot be earned and cannot be lost.
Undergraduate
Being Prepared to Fulfill God’s Calling in the Ministry
“I do not know how God is going to use me, but I know that I will be well-prepared thanks to Grace and the knowledgeable staff at the school.”
Roland Wade Peete, BABS
Texas, USA
A Relentless Pursuit of Theological Education
“I thank God for sending me to Grace. It has been a great experience for me. I have grown so much, and I have learned more about God!”
Dinah Byrd, AABS, BABS
Texas, USA
A Student’s Desire to Grow in His Study of the Word
“In my country, El Salvador, my motivation was to be a professor and teach people. But due to life circumstances, I was unable to finish my degree. I am happy and thankful that Grace allowed me to follow my dreams.”
Jimmy Escobar, BABS
El Salvador | Texas, USA
A Calvinist’s Experience with Free Grace
“My experience at Grace was transformational. I came into the school a full-fledged Calvinist, and now I am leaving as someone who holds to “grace-centered theology.” It was these things that kept me in school, even when my Christian Theological ideas were being assaulted by the truth.”
Josef Kruppenbacher, BABS
Arizona, USA
Challenge and Equip Your Thinking for Life and Ministry
“It seems appropriate to conclude that I really do enjoy and appreciate what God has put together at Grace. I feel God has been using this school to continue to equip, shape, and challenge my thinking as I engage in full-time ministry.”
Bryan Conard, AABS, BABS, MDiv
Senegal, West Africa
The Answer To What You Are Looking For
“Everything that they told me about Grace is true—Grace is an excellent seminary.”
David Rossotto, BABS
Argentina
Experiencing God’s Grace in Your Journey
“Grace School of Theology is a global and internationally-accredited family of profound teaching. The spiritual mandate upon my life required connecting with spiritual educators with a heart for kingdom growth and Grace provided that.”
Tonja Lynette Eckles, AABS
Texas, USA
Equipping the Equipper
“Grace has some great opportunities for people not only here in the US but all over the world. I like that I can be somewhere around the world doing mission work and be able to go online and plug in my class.”
Allen Mann, BABS, MM, MABS
Arizona, USA
Where Shepherds are Shepherded
“I would tell someone who’s in a similar situation as me to consider Grace because of the biblical challenges that they are going to find studying the Word. They are going to be academically prepared and spiritually challenged as well as grow.”
Francisco “Paco” Morales, BABS
Panama, Texas, USA
Shining the Light of God’s Love
“God has a purpose for you and He wants to deliver you not only from the penalty of sin but from the power of sin. That’s something that Grace has taught me.”
Leo Taveras, BABS Student
Texas, USA
Experience at Grace Inspired a Future Youth Pastor
“But I do know that because of my time here at Grace, I am a better person and a more capable messenger for God. I want the world to see how on fire I am for God; I want to walk into a room and people notice that something is different about me. I want to die to my flesh and be alive in Christ.”
Zechariah Filer, BABS
Arizona, USA
Studying at Grace is a Blessing of a Lifetime
“There is something unique about this school that I honestly did not expect to find elsewhere. Despite the obvious teacher-student dynamic, there is a true feeling of family among the professors and my classmates.”
Andrew Filer, BABS
Arizona, USA
Answering the Call: Vince Salvame’s Path to Ministry Through Grace
“My primary motivation for enrolling at Grace was my desire to be effective in ministry. I believe that studying the Bible deeply and being part of a biblical study program is not just about absorbing information but about applying it in life.”
Vince Gerald Salvame, BABS Student
Philippines
The Van Life: Traveling Ministers Made Possible by Grace
“The Bible is called the ‘Living Word’ and learning how to use proper Hermeneutics with a Free Grace Theology lens has opened our eyes to view Scripture in a new way every time we read it.”
Brad and Misty Rehl, BABS
USA
Become a Better Teacher, Preacher, and Pastor
“I can now take what I learned about the Bible from school and apply it to my church. It’s made a great impact to the ministries that I am leading as I read and teach the Bible in a manner that is rooted to sound theology and doctrine.”
Ephesien Vincent, BABS
Haiti
From the Hills of Nepal to a Global Impact: Pastor Jiwan Lama’s Story
“Grace School of Theology provided me with solid biblical teaching and now I feel more confident and equipped for my calling.”
Jiwan Lama, BABS
Nepal
Sowing Seeds of Hope: The Ministry of Dongsoon and Inoak Kim in Cambodia
“I am applying what I learned at Grace to my life here, teaching and discipling these young people to obey the Word and spread the gospel to the ends of the earth.”
Dong Soon Kim & Inoak Kim, BABS
Cambodia
Graduate
A Shared Calling: Jerome and Beatriz Lagman’s Journey with Grace
“The flexible schedule at Grace has been particularly beneficial for me, allowing me to manage both employment and studies. I complete assignments during breaks, type them on my phone, and review recordings of classes I couldn’t attend. The accessibility and flexibility of the setup are perfect for my situation.”
Jerome John Lagman, MDiv
Beatriz Lagman, MABS
Philippines
From Longing to Learning: How Grace Fulfilled Yanine’s Call to Serve
“For me, Grace is a tremendous blessing. It is a longing of my heart fulfilled, thanks to God. I wanted so much to study in order to gain knowledge and to be able to share the gospel. This master’s degree has given me balance in my life with my family; it has been beautifully coupled. I feel very blessed, and I am very happy.”
Yanine León Espinoza , MM
Xalapa, Mexico
Empowered by Grace to Make Disciples of Jesus
“The impact of Grace on Steph’s life is immeasurable. She utilized every lesson, interaction, and note during her studies to develop teaching materials for her disciples and life group leaders. For Steph, the relevance and richness of Grace’s education continue to shape her ministry.”
Stephanie Sayson, MM
Philippines
A Journey of Faith in a Least Reached Nation
“I thank Jesus Christ for everyone who supports this program—those who fund, teach, and administer it. Their faithfulness is making a difference not just in my life but in the lives of countless others in Central Asia.”
Arslan Berdakov, MABS
Kazakhstan
Transforming Lives Through Faith and Education
“I often reflect on the profound impact Grace has had on my journey, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity to grow as a servant of Christ. I pray that the seminary’s work will continue for many years, reaching others like me who are eager to deepen their faith and serve with purpose.”
Kalina Muzhchil, MABS
Kazakhstan
A Life of Gratitude and Service in Kazakhstan
“I want to express my great appreciation to everyone supporting Grace School of Theology in Central Asia. Your efforts are shaping lives and ministries for God’s glory.”
Leonid Pak, MABS
Kazakhstan
Empowering the Next Generation Through Theological Education
“As I am being established in the Word through Grace, I will be able to equip other people, especially students, to be more established, equipped, and empowered in the Word, their faith, and the community they are a part of.”
Rochelle Crystal David, MM
Philippines
Balancing Faith, Family, and Study on a Missionary Journey
“My Grace education will be really helpful, especially when I plant churches and go to the nations. I want to proclaim who Jesus is according to the Bible, not the distorted versions often portrayed by the media.”
Jan Eric Valle, MABS
Philippines
Answering the Divine Call Inspired by Grace
“I recommend Grace to those aspiring to pursue theological education. I believe that the accessibility, attainability, and flexibility that the school offers make it an ideal choice for anyone seeking to develop a more profound knowledge of God.”
Niermie Lyn Idjao, MDiv
Philippines
Inspired Faith Journey through Meaningful Christian Relationships
“Success in this world is not solely based on knowledge but on connections—building meaningful relationships, particularly within the Christian community. These connections with fellow believers present avenues for spiritual development and dedicated service to the Lord.”
Joe Enloe, MM
Texas, USA
Understanding the Truth and Beauty of God’s Redemptive Plan for Humanity
“Once you are able to grasp the true nature of Free Grace theology and appreciate the differences between justification and sanctification, it really unlocks the ability to enjoy your relationship with God.”
Michael “Todd” Fagan, MM, MABS
Texas, USA
Handling Several Priorities Didn’t Stop a Bi-Vocational Pastor from Graduating Multiple Degrees
“They have supported and encouraged me throughout my educational journey. Their unwavering commitment to helping me succeed has been crucial to my personal and spiritual growth.”
Alvin Ebreo, MM, MABS, MDiv
Manila, Philippines
Acquiring More Understanding to Reach More Souls for Jesus
“I enrolled at Grace to more fully develop a ‘total truth’ worldview that sees the Bible as truth touching on all aspects of reality. This translates directly into my personal teaching and writing ministry.”
Hutson Smelley, MABS, MDiv
Texas, USA
Grace Education is a Huge Factor in Ministry Success
“I have learned so much and grown so much while at Grace and always lean back on the knowledge that I gleaned from my professors as I shepherd my local church.”
Wesley Phillips, MABS
Michigan, USA
Christian-Based Education that Makes a Difference
“During my time at Grace School of Theology, I’ve had the privilege of encountering some amazing people who have made a tremendous impact on my educational journey and personal growth.”
Santiago Paet, MDiv, ThM, DMin
Philippines
Gaining Necessary and Relevant Ministry Skills with the Master of Ministry Program
“Thanks again to Grace for allowing the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth to be taught.”
Michael A. Todd, MM
Alabama, USA
A Pastor’s Passion for Theological Education
“I want to thank God for bringing Grace to my life. I know it was God’s providence that my casual browsing on Facebook four years ago led me to this great school.”
Dennis Pueblas, MM
Quezon, Philippines
Endured to Help Others Thrive
“I have learned many things that have enriched my testimony of the Savior and His Gospel. I have been introduced to resources and ways of thinking about things I would not have had in my faith tradition. I am very grateful for the opportunity to attend this school.”
Janea Christensen, MAC
Liberty Lake, WA
Be Prepared to Face Challenges
“The courses are professionally taught, and I can see how far I have come since starting the program. I will continue to take courses in theology even after the degree. There is so much to learn.”
Steve Hummer, MAC
Texas, USA
A Family Man Learned the Purpose of Chaplaincy Through Grace
“God wants us to take our pain and suffering and to be a blessing to others through our testimony. I can use this experience to serve others in the future better.”
Jason McGill, MAMC
Arizona, USA
Grace Education Fueled More Passion for Learning and Ministry
“I couldn’t imagine life without Grace. I love being a student of God’s word in such a positive, uplifting environment.”
Juliann Salee, MM, MABS
Michigan, USA
Pastor’s Wife Decides to Enroll at Grace to be Equipped in the Ministry
“All classes are like sitting in a classroom. I can personally be involved in class discussions and lectures; what helps me with affordability is that the cost of credit hours is less expensive than other seminaries, and the ability to set up a payment plan for each module.”
Linda Mathis, MABS
Louisiana, USA
Juggling Priorities Didn’t Stop a Student from Graduating from Seminary
“So, when it came time to select a school, the choice was an easy one—one that upheld the Word of God, that spoke about His grace, that emphasized a love that one could not earn, yet a love that one could not lose. Grace School of Theology offers what folks need to know… the grace and love of Christ.”
Scott Gill, MABS, MDiv
Texas, USA
Grace Student Has a Heart for Learning and Ministry
“For Grace to become well known, we need many graduates in full-time ministry. So, as you can see, I have a heart for my education and Grace itself.”
Jennifer Gill, MM
Texas, USA
Dedicated Dad Found an Attainable Education at Grace
“I discovered that Grace had provided a way for me to start my formal theological studies while at the same time working a full-time job. Not everyone who desires to pursue theological studies can do so full-time. The flexibility that Grace allows was exactly what I was looking for.”
Joy de Jesus, BABS, MDiv
Singapore
Fast Track Learning with Stackable Degree Programs
“All our professors have just been wonderful. There can’t be a better school of theology on this planet. I look forward to continuing in the Lord’s work of developing spiritual leaders of all nations who can teach others about the love of Christ, a love that cannot be earned and cannot be lost.”
Pol Gonzales, MM
Philippines
How to Love and Serve Others through Chaplaincy
“God placed a desire in me to serve others throughout my entire life, and Chaplaincy was the direction God kept in my heart. It was a great fit with the Master of Arts in Chaplaincy degree that Grace offered.”
Stephanie Hillberry, MAC
Texas, USA
The More I Learn, The Less I Know: Relearning the Bible in Seminary
“It is sensational to have the opportunity to prepare for ministry even in the midst of the trials we face every day.”
Esthela Flores, MABS, MM
Panama
Fast-Paced and Flexible Degree Programs for the Lifelong Learner
“I was incredibly grateful that Grace was indeed what it says its distinctives are—attainable, accessible, affordable, and accredited.”
Emmanuel Chea, MM, MDiv, ThM
Iowa, USA
Fully Spanish Equipping for Pastors Today
“I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to know Grace. It has truly been a space to learn and an environment that God has used to form Christlikeness in my life.”
Edwin Polanco, MM
Dominican Republic
Equipped to Break Strongholds
“I wanted to focus on an education that I believed would have a lasting impact. I believe learning Scripture is an eternal investment.”
Terry Weaver, MABS
Texas, USA
Transforming Nepal through Church Planting and Training
“Grace allowed me to be in my calling and yet study God’s Word. When I started to take the classes, I witnessed how the professors were excellent in their respective fields. I was affirmed that I chose the best college.”
Bishwa Karmacharya, MDiv
Nepal
Choosing the Right Seminary
“Grace School of Theology was exactly what I was looking for. It is accredited by ATS and TRACS, the classes are online and are both synchronous and asynchronous, and the tuition has been greatly subsidized.”
Ernie Aragon Jr., ThM
Philippines
Reaching Out to Every Nation and Language
“I love the way Grace teaches because the professors instruct us how to do the activities [and use the tools] well. Because of this, I have learned to study the Word of God deeply and biblically.”
Diomede Nkunzimana, MDiv
Burundi, Africa
Exceptional Education with Extraordinary People
“The most excellent part is that my studies allow me to come to know God better. I get to love Him more deeply and adore Him more passionately.”
Myra Jalique, MABS
Philippines
A School that Meets the Needs of Local Pastors
“I wanted an education that I could be proud of. I also wanted to be challenged. Grace School of Theology has done that. From a Free Grace understanding of Church History to the Biblical Languages, I have gotten exactly what I was looking for.”
Mark Fontecchio, MABS, MDiv
Alaska, USA
Why Grace? The 3 Life-Changing Reasons
“I am excited that I can have this degree to take forward for the last season of my life so that I can finish well.”
Edward “Ed” Waken, MM
Arizona, USA
The Pressing Need to Go Deeper In God’s Word
“I am better equipped to deliver sermons and lead Bible studies. I realized the challenge to discover solutions to complex problems and to think more deeply about issues such as predestination, foreknowledge, free choice, and open theism.”
Andreas Neudecker, MABS
Germany
Developing Spiritual Leaders in Every Tribe and Nation
“I am thankful for the technology that allows me to study at home and not having to travel a long way anymore to get the equipping I need for ministry.”
Arcesio Slater, MDiv Student
Panama
Raising Up Godly Women
“Teaching is what I feel God made me to do. When I teach, I feel God’s pleasure and because of that, I really wanted to be a better Bible teacher.”
Merritt Johnston, MDiv
Texas, USA
Transform Your Head, Heart, and Hands
“It was really good for me to have a group where I could just be open about what I am struggling with. I feel encouraged each time.”
Jennifer Morales, BABS, MAC
Panama, Texas, USA
Finding a Community to Journey with
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay with Grace, and I believe that I benefited greatly from what Grace has to offer.”
Orlando Chappell, MDiv
Alabama, USA
Grace is a Family
“When you graduate, you’re not kicked out of the family, you are still part of the family. Grace should be our family going forward.”
John Dillon, MM
Texas, USA
Leading Children to Christ
“I believe that we can always lead people to Christ. We can lead them through community initiatives and by simply living a life that speaks about Christ.”
Gusta Booker, MM
Texas, USA
God Qualifies Those He Calls
“God does not call the qualified but qualifies those He calls. This is where Grace School of Theology comes in.”
Erick Hoskin, MABS
Texas, USA
Embracing the Truth of Grace
“The more you study, the more light is shed on the Scriptures, the more you have the confirmation of what you believe in, and the more comfortable you become in sharing your beliefs and the truths from the Bible.”
Anicet Ndikuryo, MDiv
Burundi, Africa
Making Music with God’s Grace
“My experience at Grace School of Theology made me want to worship God more because I came to know Him more.”
AJ Villanueva, MM
Philippines
Fulfilling the Ministry of Preaching in Today’s World
“Grace will help in any way they can, so that you wouldn’t have a reason for not obtaining your educational goals.”
David Hudson, MDiv
Texas, USA
Embodying Grace in the Art of Biblical Counseling
“I appreciated the seminary’s view on grace, as I wanted that to be a focus of my counseling ministry.”
Bonnie-sue Harper, MM (Biblical Counseling Concentration)
Arizona, USA
Retired Navy Chief Has a Heart for World Missions
“I am asking God to show me where He desires to use me. My heart is missions, and my heart desires to go back to Nicaragua and minister there.”
Ann Messier, MM, MABS
Texas, USA
A Life-changing Oasis
“This school has been a life-changing oasis for me. I must admit that I did not think that I would like online learning but after my encounters here at Grace, I have discovered that I love it. With this in mind, the courses have stretched me, blessed me, challenged me, and changed me.”
Brooklyn Williams, MM
Texas, USA
Becoming a Better Minister of God’s Word and Disciple of Christ
“I chose these programs because I believed they would equip me for the ministry, and this program has exceeded my expectations. These courses prepared me for my responsibility for the people I shepherd weekly.”
Ronald Wright, MABS
Alabama, USA
Distance Learning Made Possible for a Student in Panama
“Thank you so much because studying at Grace was so eye-opening to see the riches of the Bible and also that God’s desire for us is that we live by grace, as we have been saved by it.”
Juliette Bellance de Smith, MM
Panama City, Panama
Strengthened Understanding of Salvation through the Lens of Grace
“Since attending Grace, I’ve strengthened my understanding of the Word of God, especially in the area of soteriology.”
Gene Ziesel, BABS, MM
Alabama, USA
Pastor Affirms Studying at Grace as a Life-Changing Experience
“Regardless of one’s theological background, Grace is remarkably accepting, forgiving, and filled with love. What resonates with me about Grace is its immense capacity for love.”
Christopher De Guzman, MDiv
Philippines
Enhancing Ministry Outreach Through Grace
“I strongly recommend Grace to those who want to pursue their theological education. More than theological education, I believe that as you enroll here, life-long relationships will help you with your walk with the Lord and deepen your relationship with the Lord.”
Ramon Del Valle, MM Interdisciplinary
Philippines
Growing in Faith and Ministry: Magbis Romero Hernández’s Journey with Grace
“When I look back and compare myself to who I was before studying at Grace, I deeply appreciate the faith and growth it has brought into my life.”
Magbis Romero Hernández, MDiv
Cuba
Walking Through Open Doors: Hyun Seoung Choi’s Journey of Faith and Missions
“If the Lord calls me elsewhere after my time in India, I’m willing to be a vessel for spreading His message wherever it’s needed.”
Hyun Seoung Choi, MDiv
India
Doctorate
A Passion for Preaching Grace to Kids
“I decided on Grace because I knew it would ground me further in grace doctrine and provide a solid education. I haven’t been disappointed!”
Janine McNally, DMin
Florida, USA
A Missionary to the World Benefits from the Doctor of Ministry Program of Grace
“My path to seminary was spurred by realizing that I needed help to better understand Scripture. My path to missions was realizing that the biggest needs for academic ministry are found in the majority world.”
Joshua Crank, DMin
Philippines
Quality Education for Lifelong Learners
“I believe that Grace is a beacon of light in a world that desperately needs to hear the good news of the gospel of grace.”
Dr. Kenny Hodges, DMin
Texas, USA
Leaders are Learners
“I enjoy all the professors because they really make me think about my theology. The discipline of research is emphasized.”
Erwin Amador, DMin student
Philippines
Leading the Youth with the Love of Christ
“I believe in grace because that’s what sets us apart from how the world thinks and operates. I believe in grace because if I don’t, then what makes me a Christian?”
JP Kabuhat, DMin Student
Philippines
“I am a wife, a mother, a pharmacy technician, and I also lead a women’s Bible study. With most of us working full time vocational jobs while pursuing further education, Grace’s online learning platform allows us to interact with professors and other students. I’ve been challenged to dive deeper into the Word of God to determine what Scripture really says.”
Kristi Russell, BABS
Alabama, USA
“What drew me to Grace was its accessibility, affordability, and small family atmosphere. Having been out of school for a while, seminary seemed pretty intimidating but at Grace, I began to see it as possible.”
David Hill, MM
Texas, USA
“I invite you to be part of us and ask you to invite others. It is truly a wonderful experience for the students, we help each other and the teachers are top-tier.”
Humberto Espinoza, BABS
Texas, USA
“Part of my journey into a formal education was just the dissatisfaction I had of not having my own developed answers to very difficult questions. I’d like to be able to stand in front of a group and be able to give a strong biblical answer to tough questions.”
Josh Lindblom, MDiv
USA