Vonda's reflections on Seminary Focus Sessions

By Vonda DenBoer, Canada East Mission Centre Co-President
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Before attending World Conference in Independence, I participated in my final Focus session for Graceland Seminary. For the thirteen of us scheduled to graduate this December with a Master’s Degree in Religion, this moment was especially meaningful. We were honored in a commissioning service—an intentional pause to acknowledge not only our academic journey but the sacred call to ministry that has shaped and sustained it.

Apostle-designate and former Dean of the Seminary, Matthew Frizzell, offered words of commissioning that struck deeply. He spoke about calling—how each of us is called, how each of us has purpose, and how the Spirit equips us with gifts and opportunities to fulfill that promise. His message was anchored in the powerful life and testimony of Anthony Hollands, a Black gay man in Chicago who courageously responded to a call to ministry in the 1990s, despite the significant obstacles he faced. Anthony’s life continues to bear witness to the resilience of faith and the transformative power of a call answered. Matthew reminded us that while we may not be able to change the world all at once, we can change lives—one day at a time. What we do with the gift of time and energy we’ve been given is up to us. This commissioning was not just a conclusion, but a beginning—a sacred invitation to step forward in love, courage, and faithful service.

My time in seminary has taught me to view the life and ministry of Christ—especially as portrayed in the Gospels—not just as historical narratives, but as living testimonies that speak directly to the challenges of our modern, troubled world. By exploring the context and language of ancient times, I have learned to translate timeless scriptural truths into teachings that resonate with today’s pressing issues: racism, oppression, marginalization, poverty, and food insecurity.

This study is not merely academic—it calls us to action. It invites us to summon the courage to stand against injustice, especially in places where political powers are eroding human rights. I’ve learned to delve deeply into the theology found not only in Scripture, but also in the life experiences of theologians, mystics, and saints—those whose lives bore witness to the truth of the Gospel. Their courage and clarity continue to inspire and guide us. Their narratives remind us that nothing is impossible.

Seminary has instilled in me that learning doesn’t stop at graduation. Every day presents new opportunities to better embody the message of peace, justice, and love that Christ proclaimed. This journey is, and always will be, a work in progress. As Maria Cimperman, author of Social Analysis for the 21st Century, puts it:

“God does the transforming, the befriending Spirit leads, and we, with all people of goodwill, are to assist in bringing about the reign of God through our witness, service, and love.”
—Maria Cimperman, Social Analysis for the 21st Century, Orbis Books, 2015, p. 44

As I assume a new role as Director of Campgrounds and Camping, I am humbled by the trust placed in me to help grow our camping program. Listening to the testimonies of colleagues in seminary has affirmed the importance of this call. For the many whose only encounter with a church community is in camping, it is essential that we offer loving community experiences where the divine is embodied in the people.

This reminds me that the reign of God is not a place but a way of life. It is here and yet not yet. Can you feel it? Can you make it happen? Hope that is grounded in God goes beyond what we can see. Lift up your eyes and fix them on the place beyond the horizon to which you are sent:
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“May we not be afraid to go where it beckons you to go.”
—Doctrine & Covenants 160:1a; 163:1