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  • Merry Christmas!

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    CLI Advent Calendar 2025

    Stories of Hope & Multiplication

    This Advent season, as we prepare our hearts to celebrate the coming of Christ—the greatest gift of hope—we’re highlighting how God is moving through the global Christian Leaders community. Each day of Advent, our CLI Advent Calendar will feature a new student story of hope, transformation, and multiplication in ministry.

    You’re also invited to share your own story with us. If your studies have helped you grow, serve, or impact others, we would love to hear from you. Send your testimony to amunroe@christianleaders.net & adominiak@christianleaders.net —your story may be featured in a future Advent post!

    Our hope is that these daily stories keep you encouraged, inspired, and connected to your CLI community this holiday season as we celebrate the light of Christ shining through Christian leaders everywhere. ✨

    “Glory to God in the highest…” Luke 2:14




  • December 1st

    ✨ Equipped to Shepherd: A Pastor's Story from Nairobi ✨

    I am deeply honored and humbled to share my testimony as a graduate of Christian Leaders Institute. Receiving my Associate of Divinity degree is both a spiritual milestone and a powerful equipping for the ministry God has entrusted to me.

    As the Lead Pastor of The Sanctuary of Nations in Nairobi, I witness daily the transformational power of sound doctrine, Spirit-led leadership, and compassionate shepherding. The training I received through CLI has strengthened my biblical foundation, enhanced my leadership, and empowered me to serve with greater confidence and clarity.

    This journey was made possible by the Pool of Bethesda Scholarship, and I am truly grateful. It is a testimony of God’s faithfulness and the generosity of the Christian Leaders community who believe in raising up global Kingdom leaders, regardless of geography or financial ability.

    This degree is not just a certificate—it represents growth, answered prayer, and a renewed mandate to impact lives for the glory of God. I am already applying what I’ve learned to disciple others, expand the church’s mission, and reach the nations—starting right here in Nairobi.

    To the donors, faculty, and supporters of CLI: thank you. Your obedience and generosity are making an eternal impact. May the Lord bless you abundantly for your faithfulness.

    🎁 Are you called to support a scholarship student this holiday season? Click here to launch a called student as they wait for their degree !

  • December 2

    ✨ A Testimony of Belonging and Hope: Jasmine’s Story ✨

    “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…” — Jeremiah 1:5

    My name is Jasmine B. I was born in New Jersey and now live in Pennsylvania. When I look back on my life, I can clearly see that God knew me, had a plan for me, and was holding me long before I understood it.

    My childhood was marked by instability. My mother had been a foster child and struggled to stay rooted, so my grandmother—her foster mother—raised me in the church. Though I was loved, I often felt a loneliness I couldn’t explain.

    When my grandmother passed, I went to live with my mother. I met my biological father at age eleven, and by age twelve, my mother had also passed away. I felt like I didn’t belong anywhere.

    Yet even then, God placed something in me. I was always the one others leaned on, offering encouragement, wisdom, and faith. I didn’t fit in with groups, but I stood out for being myself.

    After many years of searching, I realized that I had always belonged to God. Through death, pain, rejection, poverty, abandonment, abuse, heartbreak, betrayal, and uncertainty, He never let go of me. I am still a work in progress, but I trust this: God makes no mistakes.

    Today, I feel called to become a Faith-Based Life Coach to help others heal. People often carry silent pain, and our testimony may be the very thing that helps them find hope again.

    This past year has been especially difficult. I am a stay-at-home mother and full-time caregiver to my spouse, who lost his limbs after a severe illness and spent over eight months in the hospital. Even so, God has allowed me to serve as the Women’s Ministry Leader at my church.

    That is why I am so grateful for Christian Leaders Institute. CLI is giving me the opportunity to grow spiritually, learn, and be equipped to minister to God’s people— even in one of the hardest seasons of my life. The lessons are excellent, and the interactive church services have been such a blessing.

    Interested in learning more about CLI's Coaching program? Click here!

  • December 3

    On Mission at the Border: Susan’s Story

    Serving Christ among the needy along the Texas–Mexico border

    Hello! This is Susan F. My husband and I are missionaries living and ministering to the needy on the border of Texas and Mexico, in the Rio Grande Valley.

    I have always loved studying, especially the Word of God. I received an associate’s degree to become an RDH in 1987, during my 25-year career in the dental field. Then in 2017, I received a BA in Ministry from PTBI.

    Born into a wonderful Christian home in Washington State, I was very blessed to be taught about the things of God from early childhood. I have loved Jesus ever since I can remember. When I was nine, my parents became foreign missionaries. They took our family on a summer trip to the interior of Mexico. While visiting there, I completely fell in love with the country, the people, the language, and the culture!

    My earliest role in ministry was as a Sunday School teacher at the age of 17. I discovered a love and gift for teaching. It was during high school that I felt a call to the mission field, like my parents.

    I met and married Kim, my first husband and the father of our four children, at age 19 in Seattle while we were attending Bible school. After a year, we made a poor decision to end our studies prematurely in response to a call to minister as paid staff for his home church. Unfortunately, we were not yet equipped properly to succeed, and that did not end well.

    In later years, we did minister together in the various churches where our family attended. We were tested and tried over decades with problems, but especially so when my husband developed cancer, which recurred years later. After a very long and difficult time of disability, he passed away at only 53 years old. So, in 2012, I found myself a widow, left alone with our autistic 12-year-old son.

    Although I had never given up hope to answer the call from my youth, it wasn’t until after Wayne and I were married in 2019 that God provided the means and opportunity to enter full-time ministry. The next year, Wayne and I felt compelled one evening to answer the biblical call to “go.” And so, like Abraham, we decided to obey, stepping out totally in faith. After retiring in 2021, we sold our home in the Dallas area, said goodbye to family, and made our way 550 miles south.

    Many adventures ensued over the next four years! We have learned a lot about ministry, too often the hard way. It has not been easy ministering in a totally different culture and in a foreign language. But God has always been faithful, even during times of discouragement and setbacks.

    Our ministry began primarily by finding ways to love those in the church and community who were in need of love the most, and that in the most practical ways possible. Secondarily, we came alongside other ministries who were actively serving God, to encourage and support them. At times this has seemed a humanly impossible task, making our “Mission to Love” seem more like “Mission Impossible”! But somehow, God has given us grace to stay faithful to the vision and keep plugging away.

    In recent years, we have been privileged to become leaders of a blossoming ministry which includes a bustling area-wide bulk food distribution routine, weekly home discipleship/Bible study meetings, youth outreach in our neighborhood, and most importantly, early morning intercessory prayer with our faithful team on video chat six days a week.

    The answers to prayer have been astounding! We are now beginning to see some of the rewards of our labors with increasing numbers of souls coming to Christ and new believers maturing. It’s been the adventure of a lifetime!

    With our ongoing training at Christian Leaders Institute, we hope to become yet more effective in our ministry as a couple. My husband and I are both studying with the goal of becoming ordained ministers. Starting with the Wedding and Funeral Officiant training, I have since been able to finish studies up to the Ordained Minister level, for which I praise God.

    We are thankful for CLI, as it enables us to continue to minister full-time and conserve more of our limited resources to help with the pressing needs of others.

  • December 4

    A Tradition of Fellowship and God's Faithfulness

    I do this every year. I cook and have some of the residents over for fellowship— especially those who have no one to spend the holiday with. One lady had just lost her husband in October, yet she laughed instead of crying. Another resident is 97; who knows if this Thanksgiving might be her last. It is a lot of work, but such a huge blessing to me.

    I'm not in the pictures because I can't hold the camera steady enough for group selfies. Three of the people are from the Bible studies I teach on Tuesday and Thursday. Two came from outreach. I love where I live, but I can’t get a larger table—there simply isn’t space. Still, more than ten others picked up meals to go.

    Please enjoy seeing how someone as old as me, in a wheelchair, living in assisted care—a graduate of CLI/CLC and a member of CLA—can still be used by God. I would never have done any of this before CLI.

     God can use you powerfully in every season of life. 

    Do you have an impacful holiday ministry story to share? Please email us!

  • December 5

    From “You’ll Never Make It” to Divinity Graduate


    My kindergarten teacher once told me I would never be “college material” because I couldn’t cut a straight line with scissors. I believed that lie for more than 40 years.

    Years later, when I first considered seminary, all those old words came back. I talked myself out of it—convinced I couldn’t go to college, move to a new city, support my family, and study full time. I shelved the dream and, for a long time, assumed it was over.

    Then, while thinking about seminary again, I came across Christian Leaders Institute online. My curiosity got the better of me, and I started looking into it. At that time, because I lived in Wyoming, I couldn’t enroll in a degree program—but I believed the word God had given me and began taking the free courses anyway. I prayed constantly, asking if this was the right way to use my “free time.”

    In God’s perfect timing, Wyoming was added to the list, and I was finally able to enroll in a degree track. I have now completed all my required courses and am waiting for my final evaluation. Soon, I will have earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity. No one from my past would have believed it—but by God’s grace, I did it.

    I would never have been able to attend, much less graduate with a degree, without CLI. I am so thankful for the opportunity to study tuition-free and still work toward a fully recognized degree. CLI has been a tremendous blessing in my life and ministry.

    Today, I help lead a men’s group at my local church and host a weekly Saturday morning Scripture, fellowship, and coffee time at a local coffee shop. I’ve been invited to provide pulpit supply and to lead Wednesday Bible studies when my pastor is away. I’m still growing in the knowledge, tools, and skills I’ve gained through the excellent courses at CLI—and I may even pursue a master’s degree someday!

    As we move through this Advent season, I’m reminded that God’s plans are greater than any label spoken over us. I’ll keep trusting the path the Lord has set before me and submit to His calling as His servant.

    Thank you to all the staff, administrators, instructors, and everyone who has helped make CLI what it is and opened doors for people like me. I have truly been blessed—and I intend to pass that blessing on to everyone I encounter.

    God bless you all! - Aaron O. 

  • December 6

    Have you explored our Soul Center Program?


    Through seasons of prayer, fasting, surrender, and spiritual testing, God gave birth to this vision. Through Redeemed Calvary Church, we have seen lives healed, faith restored, and souls recommitted to Christ, proving again that God’s power is not limited by distance, walls, or circumstances. This journey has transformed me not only as a pastor, but as a husband and father. I thank God for my wonderful, supportive wife and our children, whose love, prayers, and encouragement strengthen me daily. As we celebrate this Christmas season, I extend heartfelt gratitude and encouragement to every leader, intercessor, volunteer, and souls connected to this ministry.  

    View Robert's full Soul Center listing here!

    Interested in registering your own ministry as a Soul Center? Check out the Registration class.  

  • December 7

     From Darkness to Light: Jess’s Testimony 

    “For healing will be found in your home, saith the Lord our God.”

    17 years ago I was radically saved from tormenting spirits. I had sold my soul to the devil and the tormenting began. I thought I had ‘ghosts’ in my house. I thought I was going absolutely mad. I had even gone so far as to ask a Dr. for medication because I was ‘seeing things’, but I didn’t follow through. Weeks went by, I couldn’t sleep. A giant 10 ft black figure would hover over me in bed, every night, I was beyond scared to be in my home. My dog Herbie would lay on my chest and growl at the demon, protecting me in bed. It would make nosies and move things in the house, slam doors, toss dog food across the room, you name it, it happened.

    When my students that came to my house for singing lessons began to ask me, “Jessica, do you have ghosts?” “Jessica, a man just walked down your hallway!” “Jessica, why is there an old fashioned phone ringing in your living room, you don’t have a phone in your living room” I began to realize I wasn’t going crazy. They were all seeing and hearing these things too. For a while I would laugh it off, and was scared to confirm what they were seeing and hearing was true, but when the phone incident happened with a client named Julie, I admitted it, Yes, I have a ghost. We ran to the living room, looking to see if anyone had left a phone there. We tore that place apart. There was no phone, of course. She left and never came back.

    I tried everything to get rid of that thing. Crystals, sage, tarot cards. My friend Duane. God bless him, performed an American Indian prayer vigil and healing ceremony. He tried but he said he has never felt something that dark before. I felt like I exhausted every religion, every friend, I didn’t know what to do.

    One day I was talking to my Mom about it. She said honey, “ the only way I know how to get rid of spirits is the Holy Spirit” I still didn’t try Jesus but a mustard seed was planted. I didn’t try Jesus because I was a non-believer at that time. I had a hard childhood, was wild in my 20’s and I couldn’t believe in something that would allow bad things to happen to me, so I stayed away from Church even though I went to Church as a child.

    The torment continued… and on November 8, 2008, I hadn’t slept or ate a thing in days, and I finally had an emotional breakdown and dropped to my knees in my living room. I SCREAMED TO GOD, “IF YOU ARE REAL SHOW UP!”Crying and yelling at him with my arms in the air, in my house with my Cavalier Herbie. I was exhausted and finally broken. I screamed to him over and over “I need peace in my home! I need peace in my home! I need peace in my HOME!” He didn’t show up that night, but he was about to.

    The next morning, November 9th, randomly my brothers girlfriend ( now wife - who knew what was going on for a couple months), called me that morning and asked if I wanted to go to Church. I just said, “sure” What the heck. She picked me up and we went to Christ Church on Old Hickory In Nashville, Tennessee. We got there early, as she hadn’t been there in so long, they changed the time of the service to later.

    The Church was empty and we went in and sat down in the front-middle section of the pews; maybe 8 rows back. Since we had time, she opened up her bible and there were highlighted lines. She casually said, “oh this is interesting, have you ever heard anyone speak in tongues?” I said ‘no’ and she read me the scripture. We thought nothing more about it. People started coming in, the Church got filled up. The Choir took their place in their green robes, maybe 80 of them, and they began to singing. On the last song, the congregation sang a Hymn “I Will Serve The” and everyone was asked to stand for it. After the song was over, a man standing with lifted hands, over in the section to the right of me, began speaking in tongues. Everyone did as the Bible said, it was quiet and they waited for an interpreter. A few moments later, the only African American guy in the Choir, right strait in front of me, dead center, began to interpret the tongues. He said:

    For I’ve heard your cries, saith The Lord I have seen your sorrow, I’ve seen your pain With joy shall I return unto the Saith the Lord our God

    But this is my desire That you will rejoice in my righteousness and my hand of mercy This day is the day of joy, that I shall fill my house and rejoicing shall be your portion

    For there is healing in my wings There is a mighty word of confidence that shall fulfill the promises that I have promised you

    Promises in the private Promises of prophet Promises of hope And promises of faith shall be accomplished in this place.

    Let your eyes look up and look high, and see the righteousness and salvation of our God For this is a day that hands will be lifted and hearts will rejoice For healing will be found in your home Healing will be found in your home Healing will be found in your home Saith the Lord Our God

    The 3rd time he said that, I grabbed Hannahs arm and cried “did you hear what he said?” Over and over crying. I felt something come inside me, and I began shaking and fell over, as they say - slain in the Holy Spirt, trembling on the ground. Down I went. People were laying hands on me, praying on me. I don’t remember getting up, but I do remember leaving. People were staring at me and smiling but I was in shock. I went back home and it was like light was shining through the roof into my home. I wasn’t quite sure of what happened to me at that time but I was shaking like a bell for a couple weeks. I felt like a brand new baby. My sisters Pastor got on the phone with me and said, “you received the holy spirit”! I asked him how long was I gonna keep shaking? I was cold! He said, “ I don’t know, but you’ll miss it when it’s done” He told me it the Torah it says, you will shake like a bell. I’ve never found a scripture with those exact words, but I knew what he meant and I realized, I became born again. THIS is what that means. I hadn’t asked Jesus into my heart, as Pastors say you should. I was overtaken with the Holy Spirit and KNEW God brought me to a Church that preaches the words of Jesus. I knew then, I was going to follow Jesus for the rest of my life. I was a born again Christian.

    I’ve asked him into my heart a million times since then because some Pastors tell you too, so I go along with it, but I KNEW when I received the Holy Spirit I was saved, and forgiven, and a new creation. I was put on this earth to serve Jesus and my singing needed to also.

    I have those amazing words from God written because I went back to that Church a couple years later and asked for the video of that service. I have the important clip of it on my computer and the service on a CD. I’ve also typed out Gods words given through interpretation and printed and framed them for my viewing pleasure .

    Very few people know my testimony, and I know it’s time. Demonic strongholds are very real and tormenting spirits are real. I am a testimony of that and what Jesus can do, literally save you from going to the lake of fire and a life of torment.

    Now, after so many years, the world has tried so hard to pull me back, but I keep on fighting, I keep on sharing, and for most of it, by myself. I have never had a spiritual mentor and I don’t have one now. I would love one, but God has never given that to me. I do have very strong Christians around me finally, but it has been very lonely for most of my walk in regards to humans and people In my life. I don’t have a lot of family support. When I got saved, I lost most of my friends, and I stay busy working, spending time with my husband and loving on young people and Volunteering, I hadn’t had time for much else.

    I have stayed the course, I’ve made mistakes, I’ve questioned so many things and I have now, FINALLY read the entire New Testament, working through the Old, and have my path set forth for me. The closer I get to Jesus the more friends I loose, and then stronger, new Christians friends come into my life that I align with. Gifts they are! I have been, for all intensive purposes, Pastoring or mentoring for a while which lead me to desire to get a deeper level of what that means in my Christian world. I need to make sure I’m always honoring God and saying the right things, and guiding them in the right way, so I found CLI. Currently I teach voice, lead Worship at Churches who need me and I do desire to speak about my testimony if God wants to open the door for that in the future. I teach Master Classes at Churches often on singing, worship and giving vocal techniques and spiritual focus on why we are there while helping them be better singers for the kingdom.

    Last year I gave up on secular music completely leaving a multi award winning band to fully obey and honor what God is telling me to do. Give him my voice as a living sacrifice. He wanted everything, every part of me not just some of me. Once he spoke, I left my band in the middle of an album release. Yikes, I did not make people very happy with that decision but I knew it was my calling, calling me. I have been writing and putting out Christian music ever since, under the name Jess Ford because everyone at every church, for some reason, they only ever call me Jess, so Jess it is. Releasing music is part of my worship and ministry, I am sharing the Gospel. All my songs as of late have been written about important stories and people in the Bible. For instance, I wrote a song called “Holy Water” which is literally about the baptism of Jesus with KJV scripture built in and most recently I am almost finished with a song called “I’m The Woman At The Well” which will tell her story, and at the same time let everyone know, I was her, and now I am also her, a sinner and now an evangelist going to tell the world about Jesus, he gives us spiritual water, ah! I am acting as her in the forthcoming music video to tell her story and bring her to life. I’m sharing scripture through songs.

    10 years ago when I moved back to California, I dedicated my teaching business to Jesus. I changed my website over to a Christian business and wow, has God showed up! Every since I did that, I have had 18 clients on American Idol and 4 on The Voice, one is currently on this season. Jesus continues to bless me. My goal is to become a Minister through your program and even if I have to continue to do it alone, I will get it done, because I know there are people who will need my strength and through your program I feel like I’ll be better will be better equipped to share, to quote scripture, to mentor, to lead worship and to share the good news.

    💚 “The closer I get to Jesus, the more I want my whole life and voice to belong to Him.” ❤️

  • December 8

    A Model Built on Your Generosity

    The funding model of CLI is so incredible it’s hard to fathom. 

    The idea of a free education for Christians to grow their faith and multiply it is truly a gift from God. I believe CLI is doing God’s work here on Earth and I am humbled to be able to experience it. Living in a single-income household with two toddlers to care for leaves no funding available for me to pursue Christian studies if not for CLI. 

    I plan to pay it forward and to pray for the program’s success. - Meagan M. 

    Will you join Meagan in paying it forward and/or praying for CLI's success? 

  • December 9

    A Soldier's Journey to Comforting Others


    Hello everyone, I’m Dennis “Alex” Pracht. As a retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and a combat veteran, I’ve gone through tough times, but I have also discovered the incredible healing power of God. Surviving an IED explosion in Afghanistan that took two brave soldiers’ lives was a life-changing experience for me. Since then, I’ve devoted my life to helping others with kindness, understanding, and faith in Christ.

    Becoming a Funeral Officiant is a significant step forward in my path. I’ve seen how grief can make people feel alone, but faith frequently offers comfort and warmth during tough times. With this credential, I look forward to helping families in their moments of need by providing dignity, compassion, and hope through Jesus. Whether serving veterans, first responders, or community members, my heartfelt goal is to walk with mourners and lead them to peace through God’s comforting presence.

    I chose to pursue this officiant credential because it genuinely resonates with my ministry's heartfelt mission of supporting individuals through times of transition, loss, or crisis. The Funeral Officiant course has given me meaningful spiritual insights and practical skills to conduct services that honor lives and inspire hope for resurrection.

    This program has genuinely motivated me to keep developing through the Christian Leaders Institute. I look forward to furthering my education in Chaplaincy, Pastoral Care, and the Ministry Ordination track. Every course enhances my grasp of servant leadership and strengthens my capacity to serve with integrity and compassion. The top-notch, free training from CLI has been genuinely inspiring. It reminded me that ministry is all about heart, not about circumstances, position, or titles. It's a genuine calling to connect with people wherever they are and to share Christ's hope with them all the time. I appreciate this opportunity and am eager to apply these lessons as I continue serving the Kingdom.


    Learn more about the Funeral Officiant program at CLI here!

  • December 10

     Hope that Overcomes Every Weakness 

    Thank you for the beautiful gift of free education. I never thought I would make it this far. After all the physical, emotional, and financial struggles, I finally feel complete and for that, I’m deeply grateful.

    There was a time I was made to believe I wasn’t capable enough because of my learning difficulties, and not “Christian enough” to serve in ministry. But through this opportunity, God showed me otherwise. He allowed me to grow in wisdom, strengthen my faith, and lead with confidence rooted in His Word.

    This degree is more than just an achievement for me. It’s a testimony of God’s grace, faithfulness, and the power of believing that He can turn every weakness into purpose.

    Reminder that right now, until December 15, you can use the code DEGREE20 to recieve 20% off your degree payoff amount. Email amerkle@christianleaders.net for more information!

  • December 11

    Serving the Suffering


    My name is Suzann Pedersen and I started taking classes online at Christian Leader’s Institute because God has called me to serve as a Chaplain.  I have always had a heart in helping people. I was in the medical field for 26 years.  Four years ago, I had an injury that resulted in my going on disability so that I couldn’t work in the medical field anymore. I had been going to Celebrate Recovery since 2015, and when I went on disability, God submerged me into dedicating a lot of my time to the ministry.

    During this time, God called me to take care of a very dear friend of mine who was diagnosed with ALS.  I took care of her until she took her final breath.  During this time, God had called me to utilize my skills as a caregiver and my experience in the medical field to become a chaplain, specifically in the areas of hospice care and serving those in need of Jesus while incarcerated.

    The course was really helpful for me because it actually helped me recognize where I stood in my faith and what I needed to work on as a Christian, specifically in the areas of studying and walking my path.  It also helped me learn how to be a Christian Leader, like Jesus, instead of using my skills as a leader that I learned in the world.

    I am humbled that the courses I take are free- if it wasn’t for this, I would not be able to walk this path God has put me on. I think it is wonderful and such a great blessing that there are people out there who believe in this program so much that they are donating to help people become who Christ has asked them to be. I  have been donating since I started classes.  I will continue to donate, and hopefully be able to donate more in the future.


    Learn more about CLI's Chaplaincy programs here!

  • December 12

    Called, Tested, Found: A Journey Back to His Heart


    My name is Rebekah Abbott. I reside in southwestern Pennsylvania, in the eastern USA, with my wonderful husband and my beautiful son. While searching for a life coach certification, the Lord led me to Christian Leaders Institute, which I immediately felt called to join. I found the freedom and flexibility that CLI offers its students to be the perfect platform for success and accountability.

    While I have walked with God my whole life, I feel my journey to answer His call is just now beginning. I believe it is His will for me to encourage others to live spiritually healthy and balanced lives as they seek to fulfill His purpose for themselves. I pray that as you read my story, you see His perfect work in it—and that all the glory is His.

    Called

    I was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. While I had a loving family, I never felt like I was truly part of things. The world was foreign and confusing, and I lacked a sense of belonging. It was a good life, but one full of many trials. I could always feel God’s Spirit in me. As a child, I didn’t know Him as someone outside of or separate from myself. In my perfect innocence, His presence was part of my own.

    “But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him.” (1 Corinthians 6:17)

    When I was five years old, the Lord made Himself known and spoke to me. While on the front path to my home, the clouds above me appeared to part and time seemed to stand still. A great light shone on me, and I heard Him command: “You will do My work.” Clear and unconditional, there was no room to question. I could only acknowledge the unshakable truth. This was the most loving and perfect moment of my existence.

    Lost

    I was not raised in a devout Christian household, but I had a wonderful grandmother who would take me to church from time to time. I can still recall the anticipation I felt to be in such a holy place. But I soon became disheartened when, time and time again, I did not feel my Father there. The joy I expected to fill the sanctuary never came. My questions about the church were met with rebuke, and I was often overlooked and disregarded.

    Confusion turned to heartbreak when I was told I would never be qualified to be a minister for the Lord. I’m ashamed to say I believed this. I should have turned only to God to know the truth. Instead, I turned away from the church.

    By age 10, the many traumas of my childhood had caught up with my mind. I was unable to cope or function and was desperate for some semblance of control. In an attempt to crush my faith, the devil sent an evil spirit to torment me. For many years, my days were full of darkness and my nights full of terror. Believing I was helpless, I faded away until I was completely lost.

    “But the Lord is faithful; He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.” (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

    But I praise God! Losing one’s mind is not the same as losing one’s soul. Our Father granted me a deep well of faith, and so I prayed. And I prayed. I knew in my heart that He would not abandon me. I knew that, though the darkness of this world might take me, He would never allow me to be stolen from His hand. By His goodness, I survived—and after many years, I found healing.

    Searching

    As I grew, so did my relationship with the world. I fell in love and married. I went to college, but my passion for the Lord was not met there. I established a career, but again, I failed to find my purpose. I was discouraged, but He kept me hopeful.

    I explored any path outside of Christianity that I thought might lead to a deeper connection with God or empower the Spirit within me. Though I gained much knowledge and insight, He always showed me that I would not find true meaning in the teachings of this world. I lived this way for many years—seeking, yet never attaining fulfillment.

    “I observed everything going on under the sun, and really, it is all meaningless—like chasing the wind.” (Ecclesiastes 1:14)

    Found

    As my relationship with God continued to deepen, so did my prayer life. Prayer is truly revolutionary when done authentically. Hearing God answer through prayer is a joyful epiphany—it is like the dawn. My prayers evolved from seeking my own highest good to seeking clarity. From clarity came the fire to make His will my own.

    “And so, I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” (Luke 11:9)

    During the spring of 2024, in deep and honest prayer, I confessed to Him that I was ready to move beyond myself. I asked the Lord how I could serve Him in fellowship. I received many signs in the weeks to come—and every single one of them pointed me back to church.

    While I was doubtful, I was finally—after many years—ready to stop only hearing God and start listening.

    The final sign came when a friend, whom I hadn’t spoken to in several months, sent me an unexpected message one evening inviting me to attend church with her the following day. And like a dawning in my soul, I accepted my Father’s call. That following November, that very same friend joyfully baptized me in Christ!

    I am fulfilled.

    Truth

    As limited beings, we often mistake our search for wisdom and hidden knowledge for God’s will—and I was no exception. Rather than being concerned with gaining, what if instead we devoted ourselves to servitude? In doing this, all that we need is revealed.

    Because while many paths may lead us to the feet of our Father, there is only one that leads to redemption. There is only one He calls righteous. There is only one that sanctifies our souls. This is the path our Christ Jesus has called us to.

    The Lord has called me blessed. I am humbled to know He has never left me and so grateful that He relentlessly sought me. While His ultimate purpose for me is still being revealed, I have faith in knowing I am exactly where He calls me to be. I am a servant leader, and a sacred warrior in His holy kingdom.

    “All glory to God, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to Him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations, forever and ever! Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20–21)

    Learn more about our Life Coaching Ministry course at CLI here!

  • December 13

    Reviving What God Began

    As I complete the Bachelors of Divinity Degree I am setting forth the foundational work to open our home based church again. Our church, “Fellowship of the Faithful Few”, was forced to close when Covid policies and restrictions were placed upon us. Lengthy time has lapsed since our closure but I needed to feel there was a definite calling for me to commit to this endeavor and as you see I feel this has taken place. We (my wife included) will focus our efforts on teaching that results in making disciples of others. We are not looking to educate someone who just identifies as “Christian”. (Anyone can call themselves “a Christian” for example the Jehovah Witness) but I will strive to lead them to emulate Christ in everyday life and put into practice what a Christian is called to do every moment of our earthly existence. I will do my best to teach those who attend to be more Christ-like in personal life and the works they engage in.

     God gives us the strength to fulfill the calling He's placed on our lives.

    Do you have an impactful story about how God used you in a miraculous way? Please email us!

  • December 14

    A First Responder with a Higher Mission

    Jesse Gullett was born and raised in Tennessee, where he still works today as a licensed paramedic. His life has been shaped by service, struggle, and a steady walk with God that began when he was just ten years old.

    “My walk with God began around the age of ten, when I was saved,” Jesse remembers. “I always hated war, but I wanted to help those in need—not only with my hands, but by allowing God to work through me to show His love.”

    In 2008, Jesse enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Combat Medic. For a young man from a small town where nearly everyone attended church, the military was a culture shock.

    “I met people from many different walks of life, both good and bad. The hardest challenge was learning how to be part of the group without becoming part of the world,” he says.

    At times he faced ridicule for his faith, but he chose not to waver. He never pressured others to believe, but looked for quiet opportunities to plant seeds.

    In 2009, Jesse deployed to Iraq. It was a season of danger—but also of deep faith.

    “Our platoon never sustained any major injuries, even in dangerous situations. I truly believe this was because, before every patrol, we prayed together. Not everyone believed in Jesus, but many were willing to pray if it meant divine protection. I know God was with us and kept us safe.”

    Jesse describes his military experience as carrying a yoke “heavy enough to keep me humble, but light enough that I never feared being crushed.”

    After leaving active duty, Jesse pursued a degree in criminal justice and became a licensed paramedic. His work today places him in some of the most intense and vulnerable moments of people’s lives.

    “Being a paramedic means encountering people in their darkest moments. I can’t openly preach about God at work, but I can provide compassion. When someone opens the door to talk about faith, I joyfully share Christ.”

    He has also learned that many who profess Christ need encouragement to live consistently with their faith. This has given him a heart for discipleship among his coworkers.

    EMS schedules make Sunday worship difficult. Jesse sometimes felt like an outsider in church life, but God shifted his perspective.

    “Through prayer, God reminded me that the church is not just a building—it’s the body of Christ. That gave me the vision to create fellowship opportunities within EMS. Too many first responders miss church because of the job. I want to bring worship and discipleship into the workplace.”

    This dream—to serve first responders as a chaplain—began to take shape.

    Jesse knows his calling is not just to provide medical aid, but also spiritual care.

    “One of my future goals is to become a chaplain for the EMS service where I work. I want my faith to shine so others see there is hope—that there is a God who truly loves and cares for us.”

    But he also recognizes the need for equipping.

    “My faith is strong, but my theological knowledge needs to grow. If I’m going to guide others, I need training to answer hard questions, comfort in suffering, and celebrate in joy.”

    That’s what led Jesse to the Christian Leaders Institute.

    “I’m here because I need help. I want to walk closer with God and raise up others who will become mentors and leaders in the future.”

    Learn more about Chaplain Training here!

  • December 15

    Soul Center Feature


    Church Twinning International Global Ministries exists to build bridges of faith, hope, and shared purpose across the world. We connect churches, pastors, and faith-based organizations in meaningful partnerships that strengthen communities, expand ministry impact, and remind us that we are one body in Christ. Through mutual support, shared resources, and Spirit-led collaboration, we help ministries grow together—across nations, cultures, and denominational lines. During this Advent season, we celebrate the gift of connection and the joy of seeing God work through united hearts. Our prayer is that every community we touch experiences renewed purpose, deeper fellowship, and the transforming love of Jesus Christ.

    View Charlene's full Soul Center listing here!

    Interested in registering your own ministry as a Soul Center? Check out the Registration class.  

  • December 16

    Called Together: Christa and Russell’s Journey Into Youth Ministry

    Christa J. Smith of Mustang, Oklahoma, shares a powerful sense of calling alongside her husband, Russell Smith. Together, they are pursuing the Deacon Minister Ordination through the Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance. Their shared mission is clear: they are called to youth ministry.

    “We both feel called to youth ministry,” Christa shares. “This program has been a huge blessing as we prepare to step into leadership roles that will impact the next generation.”

    That’s when he found Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance.

    “As soon as I read their mission, I knew this was the right place.”

    Christa and Russell are raising four children, with their three youngest sons—ages 16, 16, and 17—still living at home. Their family life and ministry vision are deeply connected, rooted in a desire to serve and guide youth toward Christ.

    Already active in their local church, Christa and Russell both serve as youth sponsors and regularly help lead the teen group on Wednesdays. “We currently work alongside another leader who serves as the youth pastor,” Christa explains. “Our hope is to grow into that role ourselves one day.”

    Christa is currently enrolled in the Deacon Minister Ordination class at Christian Leaders Institute. “I am taking this class to further my education in God’s Word. I want to grow spiritually, gain ministry credibility, and learn to pray more confidently and comfortably.”

    The free online ministry training offered by Christian Leaders Institute has made a significant impact on her life. “This training has not only expanded my Bible knowledge,” Christa says, “but also equipped me to be a stronger leader in many different situations.”

    As they continue their studies and ministry work, Christa and Russell remain grounded in prayer and driven by purpose. “Please pray that my husband and I will continue to grow and further our knowledge,” Christa asks, “so that we can fully live out our calling to be youth pastors in our church.”

    Learn more about CLI's Youth Ministry course by clicking here!

  • December 17

    A Search for Truth That Led Him Home to Christ


    Daniel Wheeler’s journey into ministry began in a Christian home, but it was in 2015 that he felt a profound call to preach. With deep respect for that calling, Daniel immersed himself in theological study—exploring a range of views, including those of scholars like Dr. Bart Ehrman and Dr. Gary Habermas. His quest for truth led him through doubt and even away from the faith for a season.

    “I believed in objective truth,” Daniel said. “So I searched other religions, studied their holy books, and practiced their faiths.”


    This emotionally exhausting journey eventually brought Daniel back to Christ Jesus, through both personal revelation and compelling Christian apologetics. Recommitting his life to God, he continued to grow spiritually and academically.


    In 2021, Daniel became a student at Christian Leaders Institute. He found CLI’s academic integrity and recognition of prior learning to be a perfect fit for his next steps. He was officially ordained as a minister through Christian Leaders Alliance on January 12, 2025.

    “I’m grateful for CLI. Their standards allowed me to test out of some courses and really focus on areas where I needed to grow,” he shared.

    Today, Daniel continues his education at Liberty University through CLI’s partnership, working toward a Bachelor of Science in Religion. With over 10 years of ministry experience, he has served as a volunteer chaplain, evangelist, wedding and funeral officiant, and apologist.

    “One of the most powerful moments in ministry was officiating my mother’s wedding,” Daniel recalls. “More recently, I also presided over a funeral for a close friend. It was deeply humbling.”

    He has also completed his first book on Christian apologetics and hopes to publish it soon to help others face their own faith challenges.

    Daniel’s story illustrates the power of becoming an Evangelist: Faith Officiant—a clergy-recognized minister equipped to share the gospel boldly and compassionately. His journey encourages others to explore the Faith Officiant path and confidently step into the ministry roles God has prepared for them.

    “Let us walk together toward the light and love of Jesus Christ!”

    Learn more about our Faith Officiant Skills course here!

  • December 18

    Called to Counsel, Teach, and Deliver


    My name is Bernard W. Deslandes and I currently reside on the beautiful Island of Jamaica. I am married for over ten years and have two sons. Having grown up in church, the love for God was planted in me at an early age. The decision to fully commit my life to Christ came in August 1994.

    At a very tender age, the call of God was upon my life. Although not an easy thing to submit to, I did so in January 2005 and entered in full-time ministry. Since that time, I have had the unique opportunity to serve and develop practical ministry experience in various capacities ranging from Media Coordinator, Intercessor, Deliverance Minister, Bible Teacher, Youth Pastor, Camp Director as well as Lead Pastor of a congregation.

    Being introduced to Christian Leaders Institute in August 2014 by a good friend was like a dream come true as I was never able to ascertain formal theological training due to the enormous costs associated with attending a theological college. Having found Christian Leaders Institute, the 'tears were wiped away from my eyes' and joy brought to my heart as I was finally able to get the training desired at a very high standard and free of cost. This has greatly impacted me and I am greatly enthusiastic about training at CLI as I know it will enhance my academic effectiveness in ministry.

    Having been involved in ministry in Jamaica for the past ten (10) years, the challenges have been varied. Jamaica is saturated with the gospel and as such many persons have become familiar and hardened in their hearts in response to the gospel message. Other issues such as financial constraints to carry out effective ministry work in various areas also prove to be a great challenge. New churches and ministries are formed but not many are effective and last long due to the various challenges they are facing. It is sometimes difficult to establish new churches due to the overwhelming traditional impact of 'mainstream' churches and other organizations.

    The opportunity to serve in ministry has caused me to see clearly my calling locally and also allowed me to fine-tune my international call as a missionary and prophet. Various ministry opportunities both locally and overseas has caused the pastoral as well as the prophetic gifts to be tremendously developed in me. Currently, I am embarking upon the establishment of a new work in my island home.

    Having been previously ordained into ministry, I have sought ordination from CLI as it will certainly enhance my overall calling as a minister and add the much needed academic credentials and value to the work God has called me to do both locally and internationally as not many churches and ministries want to accept you as called by God if there is no proof of 'formal' theological training.

    Training at CLI has opened up new ideas and methodologies of establishing the unfolding vision that God has communicated to my spirit. Having been commissioned by God to establish something new, this training at CLI will help me to be more effective in soul winning and transformation of lives through Jesus Christ. This training will help me to carefully cast the vision that God has given to me.

    Training at Christian Leaders Institute has certainly exposed me to the much needed theological training that I craved for a long time. This scholarship at Christian Leaders Institute has proven to be divinely orchestrated as I cannot currently afford the tuition for traditional modes of schooling. By the grace of God, I am determined to give back to CLI so that others like me will be trained and equipped to establish what God has called them to do. It is my prayer that I will continue to improve upon the theological academic foundation that CLI has given to me.

    Thanks to CLI and your Partners all over the world; you are indeed Kingdom Builders!


    Learn how to be a leader like Bernard in our Leadership course!

  • December 19

    From Brokenness to Bold Leadership: Jennifer’s Testimony

    My name is Jennifer C. Valerie from the island of Dominica in the Caribbean (not the Republic). I am married to Pastor Drewdolph Valerie and we have two young adult sons. 

    My first experience with Christ was as a child. My paternal grandfather was a pastor and he took me to church with him. When I was 9yrs old I had to choose and began going to the Catholic church with my mom. For ten years I was out doing things that were not pleasing to God and struggling to be an obedient child to my parents. Though I remained a virgin I was by no means sexually pure and I used profanity regularly, went to discos with my cousin, and many other shameful things.

    In His graciousness, the Lord brought me back to Himself at age 19. At that point, my life changed so drastically that people in my village were making comments such as, "If she can get saved anybody can get saved."  Peace came into my heart and I no longer struggled to do right. My zeal for the Lord had me going to church each time the doors were opened. My mentor took me to all crusades, prayer walks, and anything she was involved in. I was thoroughly immersed in ministry training almost from the beginning. My friends were pastors and preachers and ministers.  From there my desire to be in full-time ministry was birthed.

    I have been involved both as a single young adult and a married woman in just about every ministry except Men's Ministry.  I have served on the Youth Leadership Team, taught Sunday School, Women's Ministry Director, Assistant Women's Ministry Director, usher, cleaner, secretary of different groups, outreach team, prayer team, counseling, deliverance ministry, and marriage counseling.  Whatever my hands found to do, I did because one of my spiritual gifts is that of helps. 

    As led by the Lord I have been the Christian Education Coordinator in our island district for a number of years now. I also serve as the Regional Director of Christian Education for our denomination. For several years I served as the Administrative Pastor of our previous church and have been serving as the Secretary of the Dominica Association of Evangelical Churches here on our island for the past 6 years to current.

    As of 2019, I am now an ordained minister with our denomination. All this was made possible because of the high level of theological and ministry training I received here at CLI in addition to my ministry involvement. 

    Thanks be to our Father in heaven for allowing me to accomplish all to His glory and honor. I continue to pursue higher studies with CLI in my journey to become all that the Father has ordained for me to become.

    I love serving the Lord and his people. My primary calling is that of a teacher to the body of Christ but do all kinds of ministry alongside my husband. One of my other predominant spiritual gifts is that of administration and I supremely enjoy operating in both spheres - teaching and administration. I plan to serve the Lord in whatever way he opens the door for me to do so for the rest of my life.

    My husband and I founded and operate a ministry called Valerie Global Ministries. We provide pre-marriage guidance to couples looking to be married. We also help married couples to fine tune their marriage relationship and do interventions where needed. 

    At this point I am now a Certified Life Coach Minister with Specialization in Marriage and Intimacy here at CLI as well as a Romance Officiant and a Wedding Officiant. I am also a Mental Health Coach and Advocate as well.

    I am thankful to the Father for all that He has enabled me to do and is equipping me to continue to do. To God be the glory always.

    Will you help support students like Jennifer by paying it forward and/or praying for CLI's success? 

  • December 20

    Soul Center Feature


    What a privilege to remember what we have received during this advent season. My wish for each of you is that you, like me, realize again how Great His love is for us as we are preparing for the anniversary of the incarnation of our LORD who took on flesh to redeem the world, This is a time for examining our hearts and making our souls fitting for the reception of our Lord in Holy Communion and finally the preparation for the second coming of our Lord in all His glory and majesty. As we remember what Christ has done for us, as we look forward to the future when we will see Him again, so too can we use this time to look back on a year that has passed. Where we give HOPE, JOY, LOVE and show others CHRIST all to ‘GET READY’ for the second coming of Christ. Love and hoop with joy to be ready for the Lord. May we grow and make disciples of many.

    View Afrantha De Jager's full Soul Center listing here!

    Interested in registering your own ministry as a Soul Center? Check out the Registration class.  

  • December 21

    Called Back to the Path God Planned

    I am the oldest of two girls. I didn’t have a bad childhood. My mother and father both worked full-time to provide for my sister and me. When I graduated from high school, I joined the Army Reserve. Since the Army Reserve is part-time, and there is not much income, I worked two jobs to get by and raise my newborn son. Then, I decided to join the regular Army to have a full-time job, insurance, and a better life for my son and me. Being in the Army gave me a lot of time to travel and see new things. I was in the Army for 10 1/2 years and had two wonderful boys.

    Saved by Grace

    In 2010, I met my husband. And we got married 3 years later. We are a blended family with 4 children of his and 2 children of mine. Life is a challenge, but through the grace of God, it works. In 2013, we were invited to attend a church called Inner Faith Fellowship Ministries. There I fell in love with God and my church. My husband, me, and my son were baptized in February 2014 and gave our lives to God. The day that I gave my life to Christ, I knew things were going to change, and did they ever.

    Struggles and Renewal

    However, I took a wrong turn, not asking God to guide me and just did what I wanted to do. I decided to take a job in Tennessee, and not only did it take a toll on my marriage, but I lost my way and my walk with God. My husband and I separated for 1 1/2 years, and I also lost connection with my church.

    Therefore, I knew that things had to change, and I had to be a better me. I wanted my marriage back on track. I loved my church and wanted nothing more than to get things back on track with my spiritual walk. So my husband and I decided to get back together and put God first and foremost in our lives. I went back to my church, and we started doing counseling with our Bishop. The more I was in church, the better I felt. I knew things were changing when I was in church, listening to Bishop preach. Something inside of me stirred, and I wanted more and more of God’s Word.

    Finding CLI for Free Bible Study Training

    Then, one day, I was on the internet looking for colleges for free bible study training. That’s when I came across the Christian Leaders Institute. I researched CLI’s website and fell in love with the school. So here I am, studying and learning more. At CLI, I realized that I want to do ministry and make a difference in my life and others. At first, all I wanted to do is learn more about the Bible, but God has put it on my heart to study for the ministry. I pray and ask God to continue to give me wisdom and knowledge to learn all that I can. I look forward to my future and what God has in store for me on the rest of my journey.

  • December 22

    Only God


    My parents raised me to know and love Jesus. Every Sunday, we were in church, something I’ve continued to do and instill in my own family. Unfortunately, I was married for nearly 16 years to a man who became my abuser. On the final day of our marriage, he attacked me at gunpoint in our home and took his own life in front of me. That was, of course, terribly traumatic for my children and me, even though they weren’t home at the time. They were at school, and for that, I am thankful. Although this has greatly affected them, they didn’t witness any of it firsthand.

    We forged ahead after that. We had no choice. In the months after, we had to move from our beloved home and find the proverbial “new normal.” At ages 9 and 13, they struggled to make sense of any part of what happened. I was 40 and had the same struggle. There were no answers, and we had so many questions. However, our family and church family were the hands and feet of Jesus. They supported us, helped us move, showed up to my children’s games and activities, and loved us through this.

    “Only God”

    Through those most challenging times, my children and I clung tightly to Jesus. He was our refuge, our father, provider, supporter, and shield. Friends would ask me how I didn’t just collapse. My answer consisted of only two words: “Only God.” Only God can get us through the hard things. Though I had to walk through some very dark days and nights, He was with me. When I begged Him to stop the pain, God comforted me with the knowledge that it wouldn’t last forever. After a while, I knew that He was molding me. He was forming the broken pieces of my heart and life back together in a beautiful new shape that would be stronger than ever before. He was creating something new in me, and there was purpose in that pain.

    Jesus brought new people, new opportunities, biblical therapists, friends, hope, and laughter. Gradually, we started to heal. And, eventually, God brought a new man into our lives, a man who loved the Lord, me, and my children as his own. This fall, 2021, we will be married for nine happy years. Although my children are now adults, they asked my husband to adopt them. As of this June, the adoption was finalized, and he is their father.

    Beauty From Ashes

    Through all of those years of pain and healing and new things, I started writing again. God used that as a tool of catharsis and healing for me. Eventually, I started a blog and attended a writers conference, which opened many new doors. I’ve contributed to many blogs, a print newspaper, was an editor and writer for an online Christian women’s magazine, and am writing my first book.

    Beauty from ashes came true for me. God took a challenging story that spanned the years and brought beauty, healing, and writing endeavors. I aim to encourage others through my blog and social media. I share about Jesus, abuse survival, and chronic illness (because I have several). God is good. I am so grateful for His mercy and enveloping love, both for myself and my sweet children. They are both fantastic, responsible adults who love the Lord, and I am so grateful.

    Finding CLI to Become a Licensed Wedding Officiant

    My daughter is getting married this year, and she and her fiance asked me to officiate their wedding. I immediately set about researching how I could achieve this credential. I knew I could go online and probably pay some money and be ordained with little effort. But I wanted more. I wanted to have some Christian education behind my licensure and guidance on making my daughter’s wedding biblical and as meaningful as possible.

    I found Christian Leaders Institute online, and I knew it was a God thing. Their physical office was just a few miles from my home! I was so excited and started my education right away. It wasn’t difficult, but it was highly informative and mapped out a path for biblical marriage and a biblical marriage ceremony. I am so thankful I found CLI and can’t wait to share more about the wedding.


    Want to find out more about how you can officiant weddings? Click here!  

  • December 23

    The Long Road Back—and the God Who Kept Pursuing


    Hello, my name is Jeromy Collins. I am being trained and equipped to minister through the online courses at the Christian Leaders Institute.

    My family and I have lived in Southern Oregon, USA, for over a year. Married for 24 years to my wife, and we have three children. Our two oldest boys married twin sisters, and our daughter is a freshman in high school. Before moving to Oregon, we raised our children in the Central Valley and Bay Area of California. We live on the same property in separate homes, attend the same church, love the Lord Jesus, and serve His Body together.

    Around the age of six, while visiting the cabinet shop where my father worked, my father shared the gospel of Jesus Christ with me. Immediately, I was changed and adopted into the family of Christ. From then on, I was on a mission to share my newfound relationship with God with everyone I knew. Then, at about the age of eleven, my parents divorced. My life was steered in a different direction. Given what I knew about my family’s belief in God, I was not expecting this in life…ever.

    As a young man, I became angry and volatile. I rebelled against all authority. As often as possible, I ran away from home. Usually, I stayed with friends and even on park benches or wherever I could till the sun came up. I ended up in group homes, counseling sessions, and eventually living with my grandparents. I wouldn’t know until many years passed that the season I lived with my grandparents was incredibly impactful to me. It impacted both my life and my walk with the Lord.

    My grandfather wasn’t soft on me. But, he directed my heart to the Scriptures and what it means to be a man of God indeed. He was a pastor for several decades. His example shaped the man and lifestyle for which I strive. Despite the Christian influences at the time, through high school, I ditched and slept in all my classes, eventually dropping out as soon as I was eighteen.

    At the age of 20, lost in depression and suicidal thoughts and an attempt, I was looking for a means of escape and a way to change my life. That is when I committed a crime and stole a friend’s car. The conviction and pain I felt for what I did were so firm that the following day I turned myself in to the police. I stood trial to accept the consequences of my poor choices. God had unspeakable mercy on me as I faced a possible sentence of ten to fifteen years in prison. Instead, I was given one year in jail.

    During my incarceration, I renewed my faith in God. Finally, God got a hold of my heart and mind. I even worried that my release would mean facing society with all its distractions and temptations. However, from this experience and that of my early years, God cultivated a broken heart for the lost and unsaved in me. God developed in me a desire to have my whole life be about the gospel of Jesus Christ. I wanted to help those hurting and lost in the darkness. My scars would be the catalyst to drive me into a mission-minded ministry.

    How God saved me has spoken and ministered to others of the greatness and far reach of God’s grace. We cannot out-sin grace! And one of the markers of how amazing God’s grace has been towards me was in 2014 when the governor of California, on Christmas Eve, gave me a full and unconditional pardon! This was a small taste of all Jesus did for the world.

    Though my heart always loved God first, I haven’t always faithfully walked these past 26 years of my adult life. Yet, the Lord has been faithful to my wife and me in our marriage, with a mission to bring glory to God and have our three children. We considered entering full-time ministry in our earlier years. However, we ultimately served in various capacities in our local churches throughout our marriage. We ran a successful business for many years, then lost everything in the crash of 2008. I started a new job in construction after that. I spent seven years schooling as I worked and supported my family from then to 2021.

    About six years ago, around 40, I had enough of my then-stagnant and sometimes rebellious life. The Lord warned me to change and commit to serving Him wherever that led. Even if it meant construction for the rest of my life. I helped out at church, listened to Bible teaching while I commuted daily, shared my faith at work, spent time in Bible study with my family, and got on my knees in prayer more consistently.

    In 2020, the Lord put it into our hearts to move from our beloved mountain home in California to Southern Oregon. Even though we didn’t know a soul there, we felt God’s call to full-time ministry, specifically in that area. So, after 25 years of construction, we took that step of faith and moved, not knowing God’s plan. Within the first few months of our move, I was asked to come into full-time vocational ministry, where I currently serve.

    I received my GED while I was incarcerated. Over the years, I took some college classes and even some uncredited Biblical courses. The Christian Leaders Institute will make me trained and equipped to minister in every opportunity God has in fulfilling His calling on my life. We walk by faith. I make every plan with much prayer and a desire always to follow the Lord’s will. So, for now, I think that may include facilitating Community Groups in our home, helping in Young Adult outreach, short-term missions trips overseas, Men’s Discipleship, and Inductive Bible study.

    While I look to the Lord’s Coming, I’m so thankful to have the opportunity in this generation to proclaim the good news! I can’t believe that CLI exists! My excitement to be a part of CLI is high! I always wanted to attend Seminary, but raising a family and working never afforded me the opportunity. Also, we have lived with just enough provision from God for many seasons.

    Now, CLI is getting me trained and equipped to minister. I hope to be challenged, continue to grow in my understanding and knowledge of God’s Word, better administer His grace, and effectively share the Truth of Who He is with the world. I hope that my life will stand as a witness and legacy to all Christ is and that my family will be deeply impacted.

    Learn more about ministry through CLI's Ministry Foundations course here!

  • December 24

    When Business Becomes Kingdom Work

    I am Richard Voegt from Melbourne, Australia, and here is my ministry calling story. I serve in an Info-Tech based business as a mission in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Now is such a great time for Christians to have an impact for the Gospel in Cambodia. Cambodians are coming out of poverty and open to outside ideas. I get to work with inspiring local leaders and cross-cultural workers from all over the world every day.

    Growing up, my family wasn’t keen on anything religious. However, I had numerous spiritual experiences when I was a child. Some of those experiences left me with an intense feeling of anxiety. This anxiety plagued me through my adolescence and kept me awake night after night. I made some wrong decisions after high school and got involved in the party scene and didn’t take care of myself. I developed depression from the party lifestyle and was removed from two universities for non-attendance and poor results. Somehow, I kept meeting Christians at my work who shared the Gospel, prayed for me, and encouraged me to pursue peace through Christ.

    Hearing the Gospel and Business as Mission 

    I went to a nightclub while all this was happening. There, I met a friend I hadn’t seen for a while. He used to be in the party scene too. He told me that he was a born-again Christian and that I didn’t have to be polite if I didn’t want to talk to him. However, I did want to talk to him. He invited me to church the next Sunday and asked me not to go out partying until then. Through that church, I was able to get the love and support I needed and make many wonderful friends. I returned to the university and was able to graduate with my BA and later achieve a Masters in Business Administration.

    Since God saved me, I desperately wanted to serve God, and much enjoyed my volunteer work in outreach cafes and street ministry. I went to Cambodia twice on short term mission while working as a business professional. I thought I had to be a traditional missionary, which I was happy to be. At that time, I didn’t know that Business as Mission was a thing!

    Now, I travel the world, inspiring people to a more profound commitment to the mission, and promoting the software products of our company. My dream is to continue this work, and also do more ministry work with overcoming addictions and creation science teaching.

    Spiritual Struggles and Free Ministry Training at CLI

    Old habits die hard, and it took a long time for me to submit my whole self to the Lord and move on from the enticing old lifestyle. I’m grateful to God for His never-ending grace and all those friends who saw me through times of backsliding and loved me onto the right track.

    The protection and provision of God humbled me. He provided such a loving community and made way for me to return to study. God rescued me from an intense period of rebellious living.
    God became real to me when I was young. However, I didn’t understand that He is the Name Above Every Name. I knew I should follow Him as soon as I started to get prayed for by loving friends.

    Getting to know Jesus as Saviour was easy, but it’s taken a long time to submit to everything He asks of me as Lord. God led me to Christian Leaders Institute as part of my ministry calling story. 

     If this story stirred something in you, don’t ignore it. Share with your community how God is working in and through you this holiday season!