A Heavenly Education

Through the years many young people have attended Bethany Lutheran College for reasons other than “The One Thing Needful.” Some came because it provides a more intimate setting, or to play a sport, or because it is closer to home. Once on our campus, however, these students are presented with the Gospel in religion classes, Chapel services, and through friendships with other students.

Jen Soost was attending high school in Arlington, Minnesota. She was given an option known as PSEOP (Post Secondary Enrollment Options Program), which permits students who excell to finish high school at participating colleges. Since Bethany was a smaller college close to home, Jen decided to attend, starting in the fall of 2001.

Being a 17-year-old in a new place, Jen found the adjustment challenging. She experienced homesickness, but faithfully attended classes and going to chapel services. Not having much of a religious background, she had never been baptized or confirmed, but did consider herself “a Christian who didn’t belong to a church.” Going to Chapel helped Jen through college. She says, “hearing God’s Word everyday gave me strength, comfort and the ability to survive day to day struggles.”

In her second year, Jen was blessed with a wonderful roommate, Elsa Ferkenstad, who had come from a strong Christian background. Their friendship soon grew and the Lord used Elsa to guide Jen in a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. Elsa said, “ I was merely there, and could act as support and encouragement”.

The next year Jen wanted to know more about Christ and the comfort of salvation by grace alone. She enrolled in Adult Confirmation classes, received Holy Baptism, was confirmed, and participated in the Sacrament of the Altar. She looks back on her days at Bethany in gratitude to God for instilling a love for Christ in her heart.

Last year Jen was graduated from BLC with a Business Administration degree. She is now a Data Analyst / Program Coordinator for Taylor Corporation in North Mankato, Minnesota. She plans to obtain a Masters and possibly a Doctorate degree. Teaching at Bethany is one of her future goals. She says she would like “to give back to the community that gave me so much.” Jen still visits Bethany’s evening Vespers.

May the Lord continue to bless us with wonderful opportunities to bring His truth to others, and provide them with an “education that lasts beyond a lifetime.”

By Chaplain Donald Moldstad, based on an interview by Tami Tillman