Answering the call to ordained ministry has been a journey for Strauss Moore Shiple. She started seminary in the early 2000s, but an economic setback forced a change of plans. Still, she never left the ministry, studying on her own and serving congregations while building a career in marketing.
Now, 20 years later, she is responding again to God’s call by studying at Wake Forest University School of Divinity in North Carolina.
“Returning to seminary at this time is beneficial since I am paying closer attention to how the world and church have changed in the last few decades,” she says. “It makes me realize how much more important it is to have trained theologians to lead. The way Christ showed up in the world is how the church, especially church leaders, should show up in it.”
Seeking to live out her school’s motto of justice, reconciliation and compassion, Strauss says, “For the rest of my life, I am committed to building communities of compassion and diversity, in and out of the church, where everyone is affirmed, access is equitable, none are oppressed, and poverty is being erased.”
To the donors of this scholarship, Strauss says, “By selecting me, an older person, the donors affirm it is never too late for one to learn, be of service or effect change. Thank you for helping make it possible for me to complete my degree at this stage of my life.”
The Chris Andersen WomenLead Scholarship awarded over $100,000 to 32 recipients since its inception in 2017. The scholarship was made possible by the generosity of our donor base.
While no new scholarships are available at this time as Thrivent Charitable focuses on other educational initiatives, donors may be inspired to