BVOV Magazine 2013 - present

During their course of study the students attended theological classes, like Old and New Testament Surveys, Christ the Healer, and THE BLESSING; as well as practical ministry classes like Ministry Survey, and Budget and Finance. Students also participated in elective classes that complemented their callings, such as Church Administration; Worship Ministry; Children and Youth Ministry; and Business and Marketplace Leadership. Their training also went beyond the classroom. In addition to traditional studies, they completed 30-60 hours of practicum and volunteer hours each semester in fields like children’s ministry, youth ministry, audio/visual, event planning and more. This kind of practical ministry is key to KCBC’s mission and is another element that sets the school apart. It allows the students to apply hands-on what they’ve learned, and also to garner wisdom from experienced ministers in the field. The result? Students learned what excellence in ministry looks like in real life, on a daily basis. Of course, 2020 saw its own unique challenges with COVID-19. Students and faculty had to press in to learn, to teach and to support one another during this season of uncertainty. Shutdowns made in-person classes impossible for a season, but even with the obstacles, the students gained valuable lessons in ministry. They also learned how necessary it is to pray through hardship and stand in faith, knowing that God’s plans are always fulfilled. “We’re turning out giants of faith,” said Erby. He admits that the season of COVID-19 was a pressure cooker for the students and the school, but said it allowed for creative problem-solving. “Being able to flex and adapt prepared them in a greater way than would have been possible, had we not had to go through that,” he said. Unique Callings for a Unique Class The 2020 students are primed to fulfill their unique callings. KCBC requires that students be able to articulate what their calling is before they graduate. They’re then encouraged to seek the Lord for the exact steps they will take to achieve that calling. This exercise keeps students from feeling directionless or uncertain after graduation. Instead, they hit the ground running with what the Lord has told them to do. Many will join one of the fivefold ministries (apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers) as outlined in Ephesians 4:11. Others will continue their education, taking their strengthened understanding of the Word and mature faith into their future academic pursuits. Still others will help existing ministries or even enter marketplace ministry. In all these ways, the students will fulfill the school’s mission to prepare giants—as well as scholars—of faith. Of course, graduates will continue to have the support of KCBC. The school has created an online portal so alumni can connect with and support each other for years to come. If they need to contact a school leader for advice or prayer, they’ll find that support there as well. “We help them continue to stand and grow,” said Erby, “and if they have any challenges or unique opportunities, we can be a resource for them.” As the school looks to the future, it’s providing even more opportunities. Starting this fall, KCBC will allow classes to be audited—so even if people can’t or don’t want to participate in the full program, they can still take individual classes. It’s definitely a bright future for the 2020 KCBC graduates and for the school; and we look forward to seeing what the Lord does through these faith-filled men and women of God. As Erby said: “They’re ready to go out and soar in ministry as eagles.” Congratulations, Kenneth Copeland Bible College Class of 2020! V * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * For enrollment information visit kcbiblecollege.org. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * BVOV : 13

• Cover