Admissions News - Fall 2012
An interview with Sarah Bane, Master of Arts student
Name: Sarah Bane
Degree: M.A. Junior with a concentration in Children, Youth and Family Ministry
Hometown: Apple Valley, Minn.
Home congregation: Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley, Minn.
Current congregation: working with Trinity Lutheran in Stillwater, Minn.
Undergrad: Communication Studies, Luther College, Decorah, Iowa
What was the most exciting thing about coming to Luther Seminary?
The most exciting thing about coming to Luther Seminary for me has been the overwhelming sense of peace that I have in knowing that I am exactly where I need to be right now. I have always loved learning, but have had to work really hard at being a good student. It has been such a joy to find that seminary learning has come naturally for me, which I think is the beauty of following my vocational call.
Have there been any challenges in making the transition to Luther Seminary and the life of a seminary student?
After college, I went straight into the work force for three years. In transitioning into seminary life, learning how to have a student's schedule again has been challenging. I have had to work hard at maintaining a healthy balance of self-care, student life and work life. I have learned that saying no is OK and sometimes necessary in order to give all of myself to my priorities.
What has most surprised you about Luther Seminary?
I have been pleasantly surprised with how academically rigorous yet simultaneously spiritually fulfilling Luther Seminary has been. I have always known that I wanted to do post-graduate work, but was unsure if seminary was the right context. I am so thankful I answered God's call to study at Luther Seminary, since it has helped me see qualities in myself that have allowed me to live into God's world more fully.
What were some of your initial reactions to the Twin Cities and to campus life?
I love how quiet and beautiful the Luther Seminary campus is. There is also a strong sense of community at Luther Seminary and I appreciate how welcoming and easy it has been to plug into campus life. The Twin Cities offer a vibrant and cosmopolitan range of social possibilities and Luther Seminary is strategically well placed. Just 15 minutes in one direction and I am in downtown Saint Paul and just 15 minutes in the other direction and I am in downtown Minneapolis.
What are the experiences, communities or individuals that have helped you discern a call to ministry?
In discerning my call to ministry, it was important to understand the activities and work that were life-giving for me. Having trusted mentors from my home church, camp, friends and family were critical in helping me articulate those life-giving areas. Making the seminary leap was very scary and I doubted my decision to attend seminary many times, but God was and is bigger than my doubts and has been faithful to me in following my call.
Do you have any advice for college students thinking about attending Luther Seminary?
The great thing about a solid institution like Luther Seminary is that it will be there for you when the time is right in your life. Let God lead you to seminary and not the pressure from others and yourself. When you do find yourself at Luther Seminary, rest assured that God will exceed your expectations!
