As I write this introduction in early October, we are entering my favorite time of the year. Fall is beautiful everywhere, but Minnesota especially so. Our UpClose campus visit day for juniors and seniors happens this week, followed immediately by our alumni basketball tournament—which is really just a very big all-school reunion. 

But what makes this time of year exceptional for me is watching everyone “hit their stride.” I see it every year among staff, dorm discipleship workers, faculty, and administration.  

And the students—we exist to establish students in God’s Word for life in Jesus Christ, so what really catches my attention is our students. They are happy. Some seem relieved; the college transition worked for them. Others are impressed—even amazed—at how much they love their classes at FLBC. They may be stressed out from time to time in age-appropriate ways, but it’s all part of the testing that helps them proclaim, “God is my refuge and my strength.” 

My favorite conversations are with recent graduates who almost didn’t come to FLBC but are so glad that they did. There are other places to be well-established in God’s Word, but not very many of them. You would be hard-pressed to find such a focused, high-value program anywhere else.  

If you’re a potential student, I encourage you to dive in. You are not likely to regret it. And to parents, grandparents, youth workers, and pastors, most students say you are the reason they made the decision to come to FLBC. Put in a good word and do what you can to help them along. It’s a great investment.  

Finally, I want to say a word about our seminarians. Recruiting is different for seminary. But there is a good chance that one of the exceptional men we have in class right now will be your pastor someday. Pray for them, then dive into your own congregation. Pastoral training candidates generally come from healthy congregational ministry.  

Dr. Wade Mobley  [FLBCS President]