It's a long way from Egypt to Oklahoma. But when God called dentist Sameh Barsoum into full time ministry, he left his dental practice behind and embarked upon a life-changing journey to ORU's College of Theology and Ministry.
The recent Master of Divinity graduate shared his story:
"In 1997, I heard God's call in my life for full time ministry-this was before studying dentistry. I was watching a video by Oral Roberts, and he mentioned that God used him to build a university for His glory. I was unaware of ORU. I didn't know it existed. But for some reason, that statement stayed in my mind. I kept hearing it over and over: the university God had him to build.
"I went online and found the ORU website. And I found God telling me that I would come to ORU's College of Theology and Ministry when it was the right time.
"I did my dental studies, and worked for four years as a dentist. In 2005, I felt God was directing me to take active steps. I came to the United States and started my Master of Divinity program in fall 2006.
"The reason I came to ORU was to follow God's call on my life and to be more equipped for ministry. I not only got an incredible, top-notch theological education, but it was also a life-changing experience. Over the last three years, God has been teaching me both in and outside of the classroom, while learning under my professors, as well as in applying what I'm learning in ministry outside of the seminary, and in my personal life, as well. It's been a time where God has been shaping and molding my life, preparing me.
"Another thing that sets the Seminary apart is the professors. They are just amazing men and women, incredible role models, who both know and live the Word of God. They're scholars who are available for their students-their doors are always open for questions, whether theological or counsel for real life issues-but they also walk in extreme humility. What sets them apart from other professors is that they are filled with the Holy Spirit, and it shows through their teaching and through their lives, as well.
"I would encourage others to follow God's call on their lives, to take a step of faith, if God is calling you to ORU. Because if you take that step of faith, you will experience God in ways you wouldn't have experienced him otherwise. This seminary is one of a kind in the world, because it combines both excellence in theological education and academics. But it doesn't only minister to your mind-it ministers the Word of God to your whole being. It prepares you to fulfill God's call on your life, whether it's in the academic world, in practical ministry, or counseling."
