Events
Ministry Lunch - Recovery is for Everyone - FirstLight Ministries
Speakers: Daniel Park and Stephen Copeland, FirstLight Ministries
What is Recovery? How is it different from accountability? What are the universal principles of spiritual growth we can all glean from recovery ministry? Come join some of the Care Team Staff from FirstLight Ministry as we discuss these questions and share about the ministry.
FirstLight is a sexual integrity ministry that serves men and women struggling with unwanted sexual behavior as well as betrayed spouses.
Lunch provided (Chinese).
Ministry Lunch - The Art of Fundraising with Biblical Fidelity and Effectiveness – Part 2
Speakers: James Dickson, VP of Advancement, CTS; and Drew Vining, Associate Director of Donor Relations, CTS
Begin to put your vision into practice with practical fundraising tools and strategies. Gain an understanding for building a ministry budget, organizing donor information, cultivating lasting partnerships, communicating effectively, making the ask with confidence, and developing a sustainable fundraising plan for long-term ministry.
This seminar is the second of a two-part series offered by the Development Office aimed at answering your questions, helping you identify and understand the resources you have, and developing a fully-formed fundraising plan.
Use this link to sign-up to receive information for this seminar and to help us know how much food to order for lunch.
Lunch provided (Chick-Fil-A).
Children in the Midst: Using Themes and Centers Across the Curriculm
Speaker: Zoe Jones,* CTS alumna and author of God’s Plan for Development and hpjoyfulchildren.org
Topic: Using Themes and Centers across the Curriculum
The Children in the Midst Formation Group is pleased to invite you to join us for this unique learning opportunity for those who work with children in any capacity. Please invite a friend and join us for a time of learning with this experienced children's ministry author, speaker, and practitioner.
RSVP requested to Family Nurture Coordinator Annalisa Smith at annalisa.smith@covenantseminary.edu.
*Pseudonym used for personal reasons.
Ministry Lunch - Church Planting in Iowa
Speakers: Will Bankston, PCA Iowa Presbytery; One Ancient Hope Presbyterian Church + Trinity Presbyterian Church
Come hear about church planting initiatives and opportunities in Iowa. We need more churches planting churches. With this truth at the forefront, the Iowa Presbytery is recruiting ministers for our new Church Planting Fellowships. From growing urban areas like Cedar Rapids to thriving university towns like Iowa City, we aim to train, launch, and support church planters as we work together to spread the gospel throughout the state.
Lunch provided (pizza).
Ministry Lunch - Contextualizing Ministry in a Time of War — Ukraine Summer Opportunities in Greenhouse Internship
Speakers: Doug Shepherd, Team Leader, MTW Church Planting / RUF Global, Lviv, Ukraine
Mission to the World’s Team Lviv seeks to plant church planting churches and provide cross cultural training for the next generation of missionaries. Come learn about the challenges and opportunities available in Ukraine through a Greenhouse Internship.
Lunch provided (Chick-Fil-A).
Children in the Midst: Faith FOrmation at Church and Home
Speaker: Cynthia Fischer, CTS alumna and author of Children’s Sanctuary curriculum and the Faith Passing blog
Topic: Faith Formation at Church and Home
The Children in the Midst Formation Group is pleased to invite you to join us for this unique learning opportunity for those who work with children in any capacity. Please invite a friend and join us for a time of learning with this experienced children's ministry author, speaker, and practitioner.
RSVP requested to Family Nurture Coordinator Annalisa Smith at annalisa.smith@covenantseminary.edu.
Ministry Lunch - Covenant Seminary Thailand Missions Trip 2027
Speakers: Dr. Richard Joe, Associate Professor of World Missions
Covenant Seminary is organizing a summer missions trip to Thailand led by Dr. Richard Joe, May 17 – 31, 2027. We will be partnering with Mission to the World’s work of church planting, counseling, children's education, and community development.
At this informational lunch, Dr. Richard will talk about Thailand, the missions needs there, and our plan as a short-term team. Come just to hear and enjoy a meal together—no obligations!
Lunch provided (Thai food).
Ministry Lunch - Resound Project NYC: Ministry Residencies and Internships
Speakers: Andrew Smith, Emerging Leaders Program Director, Resound Project
Resound Project is an initiative out of Central Presbyterian Church (EPC) in New York City, the purpose of which is to strengthen new and existing churches in light of a changing world so that the gospel of Jesus Christ might resound to the next generation.
An integral part of Resound Project is the Emerging Leaders Program, through which Central is seeking to function as the first of several “teaching hospitals” in order to cultivate a pipeline of future leaders to serve the broader church in a variety of different contexts. To that end the program has two offerings:
a two-year, full-time salaried residency program for male seminary graduates seeking ordination as gospel ministers;and
a full-time salaried ministry internship program for current male and female seminary students (who would live in NYC while completing their seminary coursework online remotely).
Ministry interns will also have their seminary tuition covered by the program.
Come learn more and see if Resound Project is for you!
Lunch provided (Chick-Fil-A).
Ministry Lunch - From Seminary to Church Planting: Exploring Your Next Steps
Speaker: Dustin Hunt, Executive Director, Southwest Church Planting Network (and CTS alumnus)
How can you begin preparing for church planting while you’re still in seminary? We’ll explore how to get to know a community, build relationships with people who don’t know Jesus, and develop ministry skills through apprenticeship and residency opportunities with the Southwest Church Planting Network.
Lunch provided (Chick-Fil-A).
More about the SCPN: The Southwest Church Planting Network partners with PCA churches across the Southwest to plant churches, develop future ministry leaders, and equip churches to send them. We help aspiring pastors grow through seminary apprenticeships, church-based residencies, and ongoing training and mentoring. Our desire is to see healthy churches take root where people need to hear and experience the good news of Jesus.
Weekly Prayer Meeting for Global Missions
Facilitated by Andres Hernandez
Area of Focus: Colombia
The Covenant Missions Club invites all to join us for weekly prayer as we learn from one another and follow after God's heart for the unreached.
Questions / Get On the Club Email List: Contact missionsclub@covenantseminary.edu
Campus Work Day
Student Council invites everyone to join Eric Kessels, Thomas Gibbs, and the crew as we mulch the playground and care for our campus. Drinks and fruit provided.
Let us know here if you’re coming, so we can plan how much we can do. Note: We still welcome walkups for the campus workday, so come on by!
Fireside Chat with President Dr. Tom Gibbs
Student Council invites you to join us for a time of conversation and questions with Dr. Gibbs.
Share your questions or any topics you are interested in using this form.
We’ll synthesize your submissions to help guide the conversation, with a time of open Q&A at the end.
Sisters, Slices, and Small Fry
If you're a female student, student spouse, staff, or staff spouse and consequently not part of this evening’s Brotherhood and BBQ event, you are welcome to come by the Log Cabin tonight.
We will hang out with some sisters and small fry (the kiddos) and eat a few slices of pizza.
RSVP by Monday, Oct. 5, via email to annalisa.smith@covenantseminary.edu or by text to 567.207.4288. Let us know the number of slices of pizza you/your family will eat.
Dominoes Pizza and some salad is courtesy of the Cabin. Please bring a simple snack (bag of pretzels, some carrots) to share. Paper plates, cups, water, and sparkling water will be available.
Brotherhood and BBQ
All men of Covenant are invited to join us for some great BBQ, growing in friendships, and practical discussion of important topics.
Featured Speaker: Dr. Jay Sklar, Professor of Old Testament
Topic: The Fear of the Lord Is a Fountain of Life
The Bible speaks frequently about the importance of “fearing God,” yet many Christians wonder, “What does that actually mean?” Join us as Dr. Jay Sklar helps us to consider what the fear of the Lord is and why it is foundational—for both growth as a Christian and for a lifetime of faithful ministry.
Women’s Theological Fellowship interest Meeting
What: Calling all women pursuing theological degrees at Covenant (MDiv, MABTS, MATS, MAM)! The Women's Theological Fellowship exists to provide female theological students a space to be encouraged and equipped to serve in their callings. We do this by creating opportunities for fellowship, professional development, and networking.
Interested? Come to this meeting to find out more about the group and ways to serve in leadership to sustain, encourage, and equip seminary women. We'll have a short encouraging word from Dr. Robbie Griggs and a time of fellowship with other women and our professors.
Bring your own lunch. Dessert provided.
Questions? Emai laura.vanderhaar@covenantseminary.edu
Ministry Lunch - The Art of Fundraising with Biblical Fidelity and effectiveness – Part 1
Speakers: James Dickson, VP of Advancement, CTS; and Drew Vining, Associate Director of Donor Relations, CTS
Gain a biblical perspective on fundraising and ministry partnerships. This seminar explores the theology of giving, the importance of vision, and the foundational principles of fundraising that will prepare you to build lasting partnerships in ministry.
This is the first of a 2-part seminar offered by the Development Office aimed at answering your questions, helping you identify and understand resources you already have, and developing a fully-formed fundraising plan.
Lunch provided (pizza, fruit, chips, and drinks; let us know of any dietary restrictions and we can try to make accommodations).
USE THIS LINK TO SIGN UP to receive information for this seminar and to help us know how much food to order for lunch.
Ministry Lunch - So You Want to Write a Research Paper: Getting Started with Theological Research and Writing
Speaker: Mark Green, Public Services Librarian, J. Oliver Buswell Jr. Library
We'll briefly go over the nature of academic research and dig into the process of working through the brainstorming, researching, and writing processes to get from point A to Z in the writing process.
Lunch provided (sandwich platter, veggie tray).
Ministry Lunch - Life on the Ancient Silk Road with MTW
Speakers: Kurt (MDiv’96) and Jill, MTW missionaries
Live the adventure of life on the Silk Road through Central Asia, both then and now. Discover gospel bridges embedded in their culture. Learn about opportunities and challenges for the church in this unreached part of the world. Join us as we talk about cross-cultural contextualization for the gospel. Lunch provided.
Exhibit on the Silk Road: Kurt and Jill will be on campus Tuesday, Sept. 29, and Wednesday, Sept. 30. In addition to their Ministry Lunch, they will set up an exhibition in Buswell 111 titled Silk Road, Life at a Crossroads. Stop in to meet them, ask questions, and learn about opportunities to serve in Central Asia with MTW.
RUF Evening Picnic - Opportunities to Work for RUF in Seminary and After
Speakers: Mike Wenzler, RUF Recruiting Coordinator-West, and Keith Berger, RUF Coordinator for Organizational Development
Join RUF staff and others interested in learning more about this important college ministry. Reformed University Fellowship meets college students where they are by bringing the gospel to them during this important and transitional time in their lives. Opportunities abound to help by serving in this ministry in various ways, both during your tim in seminary and after. Come hear more about how you can be part of this ministry. BBQ provided.
ALSO JOIN US FOR:
An RUF Ministry Lunch Earlier Today, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. / Buswell 111
NOTE CORRECTED LOCATION: A Large Group Gathering at Saint Louis University, 8 p.m.
These events are open to anyone interested in learning more about RUF and any former RUF participants who would like to join us. RSVP requested but not required.
Ministry Lunch - Opportunities to Work for RUF in Seminary and After
Speakers: Mike Wenzler, RUF Recruiting Coordinator-West, and Keith Berger, RUF Coordinator for Organizational Development
Reformed University Fellowship meets college students where they are by bringing the gospel to them during this important and transitional time in their lives. Opportunities abound to help by serving in this ministry in various ways, both during your tim in seminary and after. Come hear more about how you can be part of this ministry. Lunch provided (Gioia’s Deli!).
ALSO JOIN US THIS EVENING FOR:
A Picnic at the Community Center, 5 – 6:30 p.m.
A Large Group Gathering at Washington University, 8 p.m.
These events are open to anyone interested in learning more about RUF and any former RUF participants who would like to join us. RSVP requested but not required.
Ministry Lunch - U-Haul and the Bible: Toward a Theology of Moving
Speaker: Rev. Jim Hatch, Church Planter Development Director, Mission to North America
Most everyone in ministry moves, and has a moving minsitry constituency. Why does moving hurt so badly? Is there any redemption to moving? Based on his many years of ministry experience, Jim Hatch of MNA will reflect on and lead a discussion about a helpful theology of moving.
Lunch provided (Chick-Fil-A!).
Fall Seminary Picnic
All current CTS students—including our Hybrid students—as well as staff, faculty, and their families are invited to join us for this event. Come and enjoy a fun evening filled with food, fun, and fellowship. We'll supply the main dish and drinks. You can help by:
Last name A-M – bring a side dish.
Last name N-Z – bring a desert.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
Ministry Lunch - Answer the Call, Make a Difference: Become a Chaplain
Speakers: Lt. Matthew Scheibel, US Air Force/Air National Guard Chaplain Corps
The U.S. Air Force Chaplain Corps serves men and women of the armed forces by promoting spiritual resilience and providing pastoral care. In the Air National Guard, serve in the Air Force one weekend a month. You can serve close to home, stay connected with your community, and make a difference where you live.
Bring your own lunch and join us!
Ministry Lunch - Covenant London Missions Team Report
Speakers: Dr. Richard Joe and London Missions Team Members
Covenant Seminary sent a short term missions team to West London (May 29-June 7) to serve among South Asians of Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim backgrounds. They partnered with Serge and their church plant to learn about this South Asian community and share the love of Jesus with them. Come to the ministry lunch to hear the team's report on the amazing things that God did during the trip.
Lunch provided.
Covenant Seminary Fall Golf Tournament
It's Tee Time! Come Take a Swing at the Covenant Seminary Golf Tournament
When: Friday, September 11, 1 p.m. arrival time, 2 p.m. shotgun start
Where: Creve Coeur Golf Course, 11400 Olde Cabin Rd, Creve Coeur
What and Who: CTS's Development and Student Life offices students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to join us for fun and fellowship on the golf course! Whether you are a seasoned golfer or someone who is ready to play for the first time, all skill levels are welcome. Open to men and women. Come rub shoulders—and cross clubs—with new friends and old.
This year we will have a shotgun start (all teams will start and finish at the same time). Prizes will be awarded following the round.
Format: 9 holes, scramble scoring, with prizes for the winning team, longest drive, and closest to the hole.
Cost: $25 per golfer; includes 9 holes and cart (cash or credit card, payable on arrival).
REGISTER TODAY!
Women’s Welcome Dessert
What: Women of Covenant (female students and student spouses) are invited to join us for a welcome dessert. This will be a wonderful time to hang out and get to know each other better. Our faculty wives, female faculty, and Student Life look forward to welcoming new and returning women to campus.
Where: Home of Dr. Tom & Mrs. Tara Gibbs
Hosted by: Office of the President in partnership with Student Life
Ministry Lunch - Come Join the Fun with STL Young Life
Speakers: JIll Beaumont, Area Director, Young Life St. Louis, Mid-County
Young Life is an outreach to middle school and high school students. Our mission is to introduce adolescents to Jesus and help them grow in their faith. Our volunteer leaders go where kids are to build relationships in order to share the gospel with them. Come find out more about serving and walking alongside the next generation
Lunch provided (build-your-own-sandwich bar).
Fall 2026 New Student Orientation – On Campus
We encourage all students to attend New Student Orientation. This is a great chance for you to meet other incoming students and learn about all that Covenant Seminary offers to students for connection, care, and support. You will also meet some faculty and staff who will be integral to your first semesters at Covenant.
Spouses are highly encouraged to attend as well.
Childcare will be provided for children ages 6 months – 10 years old. Please arrive at 8:30 a.m. to drop kids off at the Log Cabin, get settled in, and snap a photo for your library card outside of Founders 342.
Official program will start at 9:00 a.m. in Founders 342.
Coffee and snacks will be provided in the morning, and we will end with lunch after the program and an optional tour of campus.
Fall Online New Student Orientation - Option 2
As an extension student, you have two opportunities to join us on Zoom for your New Student Orientation. Choose whichever one works best for your schedule. We look forward to seeing you then!
OPTION 1: Tuesday, August 18 @ 7 – 8:30 p.m. Central Time.
OR
OPTION 2: Wednesday, August 19 @ 8:30 – 10 a.m. Central Time.
Fall Online New Student Orientation - Option 1
As an extension student, you have two opportunities to join us on Zoom for your New Student Orientation. Choose whichever one works best for your schedule. We look forward to seeing you then!
OPTION 1: Tuesday, August 18 @ 7 – 8:30 p.m. Central Time.
OR
OPTION 2: Wednesday, August 19 @ 8:30 – 10 a.m. Central Time.
Summer Seminary Picnic
Join us for food, fun, and fellowship. Our hybrid-learning students will be on campus as well so come meet them!
Student Life will provide fried chicken and drinks. You can help with:
Last name A–N, please bring a side dish.
Last name O–Z, please bring a dessert.
Summer Online New Student Orientation
Online students starting classes this summer are invited to join us on Zoom for New Student Orientation.
This is a great chance for you to meet other incoming online/hybrid students and learn about all that Covenant Seminary offers to students for connection, care, and support. You will also meet some faculty and staff who will be integral to your first semesters at Covenant.
We look forward to seeing you!