Last week, we traveled to Phetchabun province for the graduation ceremony of the Thailand Theological Seminary (TTS). TTS is one of the four seminaries (Global Theological Institute, Phayao Bible Seminary, and Bangkok Bible Seminary are the other three) that we send Pioneer Pastors for ministerial studies. Over the past 16 years, we have had the great privilege of sponsoring the theological education of 123 full-time pastors and Christian workers. And we have attended and participated in many graduation ceremonies. But this one was truly amazing.
First, it was amazing because five Pioneer Pastors earned their Doctor of Ministry degrees, which is the first time any of the pastors who serve alongside us have reached this level of education. We have seen a trend across many seminaries in Thailand. For a long time, Thai seminaries have relied on professors from the United States and South Korea to come to teach one or two week block classes because there were not enough qualified Thai professors to teach all of the classes needed. But now that more and more Thai pastors are earning their doctorate degrees, these seminaries are able to employ Thai professors.
Second, there was a total of 11 Pioneer Pastors who graduated on this day, 5 Doctor of Ministry degrees, 4 earned Master of Divinity degrees, and 2 earned Bachelor of Ministry degrees.
Here are some of the Pioneer Pastors who graduated on this wonderful day:
(ABOVE: From left to right) Dr. Warin (D.Min.) of Fire of Glory Church, Rev. Santi (B.Min.) of Sukhothai Church, Dr. Somsri (D. Min.) of Fire of Glory Church, Rev. Moss of Fire of Glory Church.
(ABOVE: From left to right) Rev. Nuch of God is Good Church, Dr. Sherri Morrissey, Dr. Narayuth (Peter) of God is Good Church, Rev. Mike Morrissey, Rev. Awee of Buengkan Church.
Third, what made this day to be truly outstanding was the large scale of the graduation ceremony. Over 280 people graduated on this day, making it by far the largest graduation ceremony of any Thai seminary that we have experienced. With these many graduates, we can feel the momentum of rapid growth of Christianity in Thailand. We extend our applause and admiration to Dr. Wallapa who is president of the Thailand Theological Seminary for her fruitful ministry and tireless labor for the Kingdom of God. She is an anointed servant of the Lord!
Finally, Sherri and I would like to wish all of you a Blessed Easter! Jesus is Risen! Hallelujah!
