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The opportunity to begin theological education remotely in India, while preparing for future in-person study, has been both a gift and a meaningful step in my vocational journey.

My call to study theology emerged through my involvement in church ministry and teaching the Bible to young people. Over time, I sensed a deeper desire to understand Scripture more carefully and to engage theology in a way that would strengthen both my faith and my ministry. Garrett’s academic reputation—its commitment to thoughtful theological reflection, and its openness to global perspectives—attracted me here to pursue this calling.

However, like many students around the world, I faced practical realities that made immediate relocation difficult. Financial considerations, family responsibilities, and logistical challenges meant that moving abroad for study would take time to arrange. Without the possibility of remote study, I would have needed to postpone my theological education entirely. Instead, Garrett’s remote learning structure made it possible for me to begin my studies without delay, allowing me to start engaging with coursework, professors, and fellow students while remaining in India.

Studying remotely has also given me a unique advantage: I am able to remain deeply connected to my local church and community while I learn. Rather than separating academic theology from ministry, my studies constantly interact with the realities of everyday life. When I read theological texts, discuss doctrine, or reflect on the church’s mission in the world, I do so while actively participating in the life of my congregation. This allows theological ideas to be tested, refined, and lived out in real contexts.

Teaching and discussing Scripture with young people in my community has been especially meaningful during this time. As I learn new perspectives and engage different theological traditions through my coursework, I share those insights with others in my church. At the same time, the questions and experiences of the people I serve often shape how I approach my studies. This two-way relationship between learning and ministry has made remote study not only practical but spiritually enriching.

Another benefit of studying remotely is the opportunity to participate in a truly global learning environment. Though I am physically located in India, the classroom extends far beyond geographical boundaries. I interact with students and faculty who come from different cultural, theological, and ecclesial backgrounds. These conversations expand my understanding of the church as a global community and remind me that theology is always shaped by diverse voices and experiences.

Of course, studying remotely also requires discipline and perseverance. Managing time zones, maintaining focus in a digital learning environment, and balancing academic work with ministry responsibilities can be challenging. Yet these challenges have also helped me develop habits of commitment and resilience that will serve me well in future studies and ministry.

Looking ahead, I hope to eventually continue my education in person at Garrett. Being able to study on campus would allow for deeper relationships with faculty and classmates and greater immersion in the seminary community. However, beginning my education remotely has already provided a strong foundation for that next step. It has let me start this journey now rather than waiting for the perfect circumstances.

In many ways, remote study reflects the reality of the global church today. Faith communities are connected across cultures, languages, and nations; theological education must adapt to this interconnected world. Garrett’s commitment to supporting students in different parts of the world demonstrates a vision of theological education that is both accessible and globally engaged.

For me, studying remotely has not been merely a temporary arrangement. It has been a meaningful way to begin my theological formation while remaining rooted in the community that first nurtured my calling. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and serve simultaneously, and I look forward to continuing this journey with Garrett in the years ahead.

May God richly bless the leadership, teaching faculty, and staff of Garrett for making it possible for students to pursue their dreams of theological education, even from the farthest corners of the world. Their dedication and support have opened doors for many students to learn, grow, and serve faithfully in their calling.