I have had many experiences in my life leading toward my dream of being a big tree producing a lot of fruit for God. I grew up in a Christian family in Korea in the midst of a culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Shamanism. My grandparents were some of the first Protestant Christians in my country. My father served the church for 30 years as an elder before he passed away, and my mother still serves as a junior pastor. My sister is a pastor's wife. I am so grateful for my Christian roots.

When I took the Master of Divinity Program at the Asian Center for Theological Studies and Mission at Asia United Theological University, I learned how wide, deep and beautiful the Christian world is. As I met wonderful professors and studied Reformed theology, I learned the harmony of deep spirituality, academic intelligence, and gentle character. Sometimes in class I felt God's presence so clearly, it brought tears to my eyes. God is so majestic, clear, and active.

I learned the harmony of deep spirituality, academic intelligence, and gentle character.

After earning my degree, I planted a church in Seoul, the capital of my country. During ten years there, God taught me about ministry, church members, the Church itself, and even God's heart toward mankind. Through this experience, I became practical and spiritual - a precious treasure for my life. I also served the Army as a chaplain during this time.

Through teaching at a university and seminary, I realized that my gifts lay in the teaching ministry. As I taught, I grasped how theology is important to modern Christianity. I realized that theology poses a problem for Christianity today, since so many people have different faiths and ways of living the Christian life based on their own different beliefs.

Coming to the United States, it has been helpful for me to see the lovely sense of community at Western Theological Seminary. The professors and students are peaceful, quiet, and kind. They earnestly worship God every day and have a personal relationship with God and each other. I see American life and education as honest, truthful, and responsible. Here I am continuing to develop my dream of becoming that big, fruitful tree for God.