Karla Stoltzfus's story

I began seminary studies with a clear sense of calling to pastoral ministry. I knew that I was in seminary to grow my knowledge and skills for leading the church. I came to AMBS in particular, after three semesters of study in my native Virginia in order to stretch my horizons while staying
rooted in the Mennonite tradition.

I also moved to Elkhart to study in order to learn more about my biological roots in this part of the world that was my mother’s first home. Today, after three semesters of study at AMBS, I understand that coming to AMBS was a return to my “motherland” in ways I could not have articulated when I came.

As I have learned to know my maternal grandmother and relatives better while living here, I have also been learning to know God who mothers, protects, and fiercely loves all of creation. My understanding of God has been richly expanded as I have been invited, through studies, spiritual direction and times of corporate worship, to consider the feminine attributes of God. I have appreciated opportunities presented in many classes to study the work of feminist, womanist and minority theologians along with the other voices that are prominent in our Anabaptist Christian tradition. I am convinced that as we listen to the voices of women and men, to people of various races and traditions and even to the voiceless parts of creation, we grow a more full and balanced image of God. This growth is vital, because our character and work of spreading God’s shalom in the world are shaped by our image of God.

I needed to grow in knowledge and love of God; to have my image of God stretched and sculpted as part of my preparation for ministry. And this is happening for me at AMBS. Sensitive and encouraging professors, inspiring student colleagues, a wise spiritual director, and attentive, caring staff people have all been instrumental in my growth here. I have a more ample understanding of God and greater confidence in my calling to serve the church and the world as a woman created in God’s image because of these people and this place. I am deeply grateful to God for leading me to AMBS!