Admissions News - January 2011
Michael Rusert, M.Div., reflects on the path that led him to seminary
Michael Rusert, originally from Monticello, Minn., is an M.Div. middler with a concentration in Children, Youth and Family Ministry. He received his undergraduate degree from Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minn.
What has been most exciting about coming to Luther Seminary?
My time at Luther has really filled me with a sense of wonder and anticipation—wonder of and anticipation for what God is doing in this world in a time of such dramatic change, both in the church and the world as a whole. Luther has been a place to ask the hard questions, to wrestle with the challenges and ultimately to dive headfirst into the ongoing work of our creator in new and creative ways.
How did you first feel called to ministry?
I felt a call to ministry during high school. I had encouraging parents and a faith community that surrounded me with love. I also found the Bible to be a pretty amazing book. I found the stories helped me make sense of my life, especially the call of Moses—a guy who by no means had it all put together, feared public speaking and was wanted for murder in the neighboring country. I am not wanted for murder anywhere, but I can relate with those feelings of inadequacy.
As a student, you are active in Day in the Life, an annual event that gives potential students a glimpse of Luther Seminary. But as a prospective student, you attended a similar event. How did this affect your decision to attend Luther?
I actually attended a Previews event, which gave high school students a preview of life at Luther Seminary. Ten years later I returned for a campus visit. It was extremely helpful and really took away some of the anxieties and unknowns I had.
How did you get involved in Day in the Life as a student? How does it feel being on the other side of the visit?
I got involved with Day in the Life in part because I work with admissions as a student host. Participating in Day in the Life is another great opportunity for me to share hospitality but also to be open, honest and available for those discerning a call to seminary.
Is there anything you wish you had known before starting at Luther Seminary?
First Week, Luther's orientation for new students, is amazing. I reluctantly signed up for it thinking that it would bore me out of my mind. I was completely wrong. Two, Luther is not a pastor-puppet factory. There are countless opportunities here to be encouraged and equipped as the leader God is calling you to be in the world. Three, I wish I would have known about the Children, Youth and Family and the Congregational Mission and Leadership programs. I am so grateful for the community and learning I have been exposed to through CYF. I would encourage all who are considering an education at Luther to check out the amazing work both the CYF and CML programs are doing.
