FAITHFUL

We stopped in the South Dakota town of Aberdeen. Our journey had already seemed endless, and we still had nearly an hour to go. After filling the tank with gas, we made our way through the mist to highway 281 and the forty-mile journey due north. You can get almost anywhere in the northern plains with just a left and a right turn. Roads are all on a grid pattern and only go either north and south or east and west. Every now and again there are gentle bends that I am told help compensate for the earth’s curvature and ensure that a due north trajectory is maintained.

Eventually we reached the stop sign at the corner of Highway 281 and Main Street, Ellendale. It is unimpressive. No traffic light, no signs. We turned eastward and made our way through the small town. We noticed that there was an “akery” right on Main Street. It caught our attention until we realized that it was actually the bakery and that the “B” had fallen off the sign. Sadly, the bakery shut down a few years later. Where had we come to?

As you exit the built-up part of the little town of Ellendale and drive a few blocks further east the majestic pillars of Davidson Hall emerge, and it becomes clear that there is a substantial collection of buildings ahead. I will never forget seeing those pillars for the first time. They would become the center of another story which you will need to read about later in this book. I do recall that my heart leapt inside me, a feeling I could not reconcile with all my other senses at the time.


ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

It is often said that it takes a village to educate a single student. The same is true when it comes to a book like this.

My sweetest life friend, coworker and wife Carol needs first mention. Her steadfast commitment to God, me and God’s work speaks more loudly than any story recorded here of the faithfulness of God. She has been my rock and strength through each season of life. Thank you is not adequate. I love you Carol with all my heart.

The names of many generous people run through this book. These stewards of God’s resources are worthy of yet another mention. Gerry and Mary Schoonbee, you trusted a 28-year-old with a dream. It was you who began the journey that has now resulted in the army of kind and generous people, many referenced in this book, who have joined us in this great calling of training and educating men and women. The hundreds who have sown into our lives over many years though not specifically mentioned, are remembered with gratitude.

My indefatigable administrative assistant Jessica Saylor must take credit for helping get this book into a publishable state. For her many hours of labor and seemingly effortless use of technology that is way beyond my skill set I am very grateful. Likewise, David and Rose Bennet labored for hours in proofreading the text. The Trinity story is incomplete without a special mention of this amazing couple. To them both, thank you.

The Board of Trustees under the capable leadership of Superintendent Stephen Shaible made the publishing of this book possible. As a result of their generosity, I can make this book available on the basis of a donation rather than a sale.

All proceeds from this book will find their way into the Trinity Bible College and Graduate School endowment fund. May this resource serve many generations of future students well.

Finally, the great people of this Upper Midwest region – pastors, District Superintendents, District Youth Directors, and multiple people spread far and wide - thank you. You have welcomed us and made us one of your own. Our lives will forever have the imprint of the beautiful people of the Upper Midwest and the faithful God that they reflect.