Introducing FAC School of Ministry: Inside the Student Experience

Aug 20

3 min read

FAC School of Ministry students in conversation around a table with their Bibles.

“FAC School of Ministry started as an idea to help people take a first step who feel called or curious about ministry,” Pastor Chet Kennedy explains. “Last year was a pilot project, and we had just over 30 people from their 20s through their 60s learning more about the Bible and how to apply it in ministry.”

We asked Chet to explain more about the "why" behind this initiative. “Churches across Canada need more pastors and ministry leaders, but not everyone can commit to full-time seminary. FAC School of Ministry offers a more accessible path: one class a semester, theological training in partnership with Ambrose University, and hands-on ministry experience and mentoring right here at FAC.”

But what's FAC School of Ministry actually like from the student perspective? We asked Shauna, Darren, and Brett, students from last year’s cohort, what drew them to the program and what their experience has been like.

A smiling woman sitting at a table with her open Bible and Stanley getting ministry training at FAC Deerfoot.

FAC: What made you want to take the School of Ministry courses last year?

Shauna: “We started attending FAC Southwest, and there was a sermon on Gideon about how feeling scared shouldn’t stop you. Pastor Kyle talked about the “Called or Curious” info session, and I was like, well, I’m definitely curious. I think I’ve been called, but what does this look like? Committing to full-time school was terrifying, but I could do one class at a time and see if it was right.

That fear and curiosity you feel might actually be God talking to you! There are so many people at FAC who want to help you find your fit for ministry. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone about it! God doesn't call the qualified. He qualifies the called. And it's cheesy, but it's true. Like, if he wants you in ministry and you have the heart posture of wanting to serve, He will help you!”

Older man wearing glasses and a plaid shirt, smiling as he shares about pursuing a second career in ministry after retirement.

FAC: What made you want to try FAC School of Ministry?

Darren: "I'm sort of transitioning from my career as an engineer into retirement, and I thought maybe it could look like being more in ministry. It’s a dream I’ve had for decades. I felt like God was saying that He didn't want me to give up on that dream, that He really does have a place for me. So you know, when they started offering ministry courses at FAC with Ambrose last year, I was like, 'Oh, this is perfect!' I’m going to take this door that God is opening for me."

FAC: What's your experience been like so far?

Darren: “What I'm learning has been fantastic. I always saw the importance of theological training for pastors, but I thought it was a waste of time for everyday Christians. So I went into it a little bit reluctantly, you know, with some of these doubts, but I was wrong. These courses are a huge boost to my faith. Everyone should take theology courses if you have the opportunity.”

Smiling man wearing a blue collared shirt talking about taking theological training on the side while still working and being a father.

FAC: What’s FAC School of Ministry like?

Brett: “FAC School of Ministry is everything school should be: engaging, fun, uncomfortable, and a little hard. I can grow and stretch myself both academically and spiritually in a safe space. It’s building my confidence in who God has created me to be. I’m looking forward to another year of rich learning and ministry experience.

My steps into this were very hesitant, and I was scared of messing up, that it’d be too hard, or distract me from the rest of my responsibilities. This wasn’t an easy step to take, but I just keep taking small steps of obedience with Jesus!”

Feel called to ministry, curious about how to join Jesus more intentionally, or simply want to grow in your theology? FAC School of Ministry gives you a great place to start. Courses are open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as anyone who simply wants to sit in and learn. Contact Pastor Chet Kennedy to learn more. Registration is now open for Fall 2026!