Preparing for ministry

Gavin is double majoring in worship arts and biblical and theological studies (BTS). He has been a part of the Orientation Staff and Campus Ministries Team. Gavin started at Northwestern to pursue his then-girlfriend, who is now his fiancee; he stayed because of the campus community and spiritual growth he experienced immediately after arriving.

Called
Initially, I came in as a computer science major but switched to worship arts and BTS. I had a radical encounter with God at a worship service, when I audibly heard God call me into ministry. My plans after college are to pursue my master's degree in theology and become ordained—and hopefully come back to NWC as a worship/theology professor.

Accepted
I come from a Pentecostal background, so I was worried about sticking out like a sore thumb and not being loved by those around me. I was also worried about theological differences between me and those around me, both professors and students. The students are loving and willing to hear each other’s point of view. The professors challenge you to better understand your beliefs. When you have questions and concerns about doctrines and theology, they come alongside you and push you to find the answers, so you can better lead believers in the future. 

Shaped
I don't think you could find a more relatable and loving team of professors and mentors. The adjunct worship professors from around Sioux County have all been involved with worship at NWC in the past and [They] have a heart for helping the next generation grow in their faith and abilities.

Learning by serving
The biggest strength of the worship arts major is the one-ness of the department—learning who God is through multiple lenses of worship. You get to serve in the ways you’re studying—whether through music, tech, speaking or some other form of worship. I have grown in my musicianship and knowledge of ministry through an abundance of opportunities to serve.

Finding family
Most importantly, I found a family at Northwestern. I found a family of other students and professors who love each other well and come alongside each other in times of joy and sadness, just as God has called us to do. Iron sharpens iron, and this group of peers in the program—as well as professors—sharpens me every day.