Shawn Berkebile

A Part of the Seminary Community!

       by Molly Imler

Shawn Berkebile, 23
Church: St. Peter's Lutheran Church,Lancaster, PA
Undergraduate: Susequehanna University
Pursuing M.Div. Degree

Shawn Berkebile, a 23 year old member of the Master of Divinity program, came to the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg due to encouraging words from mentors as well as his ability to stay close to his family as he attends seminary. 

“The campus of LTSG is in a perfect location,” he states, “it’s not too far away from my family’s home in Lancaster, PA and it’s close to my fiancées residence at State College.”  Along with the seminary’s convenient location, Mr. Berkebile also enjoys the prestige and diversity the professors of LTSG offer to him and his fellow classmates.  The professors are unique; “each has their own style of teaching and do a great job challenging the students,” he explains. 

Mr. Berkebile received his bachelor’s degree from Susquehanna University with a major in Religion and a minor in Theater Arts.  He is a member of the Lower Susquehanna Synod and attends St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Lancaster, PA.  Mr. Berkebile came to seminary immediately after receiving his bachelor’s degree and plans to become an ordained minister upon graduation.

Mr. Berkebile’s experiences at LTSG have been enhanced through his diligent extra curricular entourage of activities.  He participates in both seminary choirs; the Motet Choir and the Seminary Choir, is a junior class trusty, acts as chair of the athletic committee and helps organize the annual Luther Bowl.  Along with all of these diligent activities, Mr. Berkebile takes part in daily worship, and describes the experience as a way to “heighten [his] personal spiritual life and education.”  He also describes his weekly Sunday travels to his teaching parish in New Cumberland as his favorite experience, thus far, that LTSG offers. 

Mr. Berkebile has had many fulfilling experiences at LTSG, the most influential or adamant experience lies within the seminary community.  One of the most beneficial aspects of being a seminary student is the experience of being part of a community; the fulfillment of feeling like you are right at home.  Mr. Berkebile has enjoyed creating new friendships with fellow members of the student body.  “I didn’t realize how fast I would become close friends with so many people,” he explains.  His contributions to this community and the community’s contributions to his personal, spiritual and educational growth are immense.

 “Through the presents of God and the gifts of the Spirit, I have been able to call LTSG home!”