NOBTS Hybrid Weekend - Spring 2026

Thank you to everyone who prayed for James and me as we traveled to New Orleans this past weekend! If you didn’t know, I am currently pursuing a Masters of Divinity (MDiv) at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Most of my classes are online, but I occasionally get the opportunity to attend a weekend hybrid class in person. James had expressed some interest in seminary, so he made the 8-hour drive with me!
These hybrid weekends include lectures, worship services at the chapel (pictured here), and meals with our professors and classmates. I appreciate this class format as it makes me feel like I‘m a part of the campus- like this is “my“ seminary. It also gives me a chance to develop relationships that I wouldn‘t otherwise have. In fact, one of my professors met up with me at 7:30 on a Saturday morning for coffee, which I was so grateful for. This speaks volumes about the overall culture of NOBTS- one of humility, selflessness, and compassion.  
I learned so much in my Old Testament 2 class that I could write whole articles it....but I will spare you this week! Outside of class, we were able to eat some cajun cuisines, do a little sight-seeing on the French Quarter, and of course, get my wife some beignets from Cafe Du Monde.

We were also able to attend Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, one of the largest churches in the area led by Dr. Fred Luter Jr., who served as the first black president of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2012-2014. We were fortunate to be able to see him preach as he will be retiring in October 2026.
 
Additionally, we visited UTM alum and longtime FBCUC member Cortney Bruketta, who is currently working in the office at NOBTS alongside her husband, Zack. Cortney was involved with the children’s ministry and youth ministry here, and she told us that she remembers many of our legacy members! Small world!

Overall, this weekend was a very enriching, edifying time for both me and James. Pray for me as I continue to pursue my degree- it’s going to be a while before I’m done- and pray for James as he continues to discern his ministry calling.