Hello, I’m Dr. Chris Gates, Associate Dean of the Trinity Quest Program and Assistant Professor of Bible and Theology. My role involves supporting and guiding our Quest students, who are often adults balancing careers, families, and education. I provide pastoral care, ensuring they feel seen and supported throughout their studies. I also teach Bible and theology courses, which is a passion of mine.
I was once a student in the Quest Program myself. Initially, I resisted the call to ministry and pursued careers as a firefighter and paramedic. However, I eventually recognized the call and found my way to Trinity. The Quest Program was designed for people like me—those who are answering God’s call later in life, with jobs and families. I attended classes one day a week, and I quickly discovered that learning about the Bible sparked a passion in me that I had never felt in traditional school. My time at Trinity was transformative, not just intellectually, but spiritually. I grew in my faith in ways I hadn’t experienced in my 30 years in church.
As the director, I’ve seen the Quest Program evolve, particularly in terms of format, but the heart of it remains the same. The students in the program are deeply invested in their studies, and it’s a joy to see them engage with their faith and learning. The Quest Program has changed in many positive ways over the past 15 years, but the passion for learning God’s word remains at its core.
When it comes to supporting the school, I often see financial barriers as the biggest challenge for prospective students. I encourage pastors to take advantage of our tuition matching program, where churches can match a portion of a student’s tuition, up to $1,000 per semester. For those who want to sponsor a student, the Life Change Scholarship is a great option to support bright, motivated individuals. While we can accommodate different schedules and study plans, the reality is that financial support is crucial for students to succeed.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Quest Program, helping students grow both academically and spiritually. Thank you for your support!
Recent Comments