Graduate Interview, Terry Zeigler
After three decades in law enforcement, Terry Zeigler stepped into seminary with little formal theology training and a desire to grow in his understanding of Scripture. His journey through Redemption Seminary shows how perseverance, disciplined study, and a willingness to learn can prepare students for meaningful ministry.
Can you start seminary without a theology background?
After 30 years in law enforcement, Terry Zeigler returned to school for personal spiritual growth. His first week nearly stopped him. Here’s what helped him continue—and where his studies led.
Terry Zeigler, M.A. in Biblical Studies graduate · 15-minute interview
“I had no background in ministry, none in theology.” Terry’s hesitation may sound familiar if you’re considering seminary after a career in another field.
He had already earned a master’s degree in public administration and had promised himself he was finished with school. In retirement, however, a desire to read Scripture more deeply led him to Redemption Seminary’s Master of Arts in Biblical Studies. In his graduate interview, he speaks candidly about the learning curve, the work, and the ministry he and his wife began planning.
“It is well worth the money and time. I would highly recommend it to anybody. Even for your own personal growth. It’s invaluable.”
Is seminary only for people already in ministry?
For Terry, the first reason to enroll was personal: he wanted to reconnect with God and spend more time in Scripture. He had spent three decades in law enforcement, including five years as a police chief. He began studying on his own before considering another degree. The idea of entering a graduate program without theological training made him nervous, and he weighed the decision for months.
His story illustrates a path into seminary that begins with a desire to grow, even when the next ministry role is not yet clear. Redemption’s admissions FAQ also says an undergraduate degree need not be in theology or the humanities for its graduate programs.
What if the first online course feels overwhelming?
Terry describes his first week in Spiritual Formation as rough. Along with new ideas and terminology, he had to learn the technology and the flow of an online course. He thought about dropping out. Encouragement from his wife helped him stay, and finishing that first course renewed his interest in learning.
As he continued, he felt comfortable asking his professor for help with both coursework and technology. He credits that ongoing relationship with helping him find his footing. Redemption’s M.A. program page describes its weekly meetings with a mentor-professor and the emphasis on applying course material to life and ministry.
How do you make time for online seminary?
Terry found a weekly rhythm around his Thursday morning meetings. He often stepped away after class, then returned to his studies over the weekend. Knowing what needed to be ready by Thursday helped him stay on track.
He set a goal of finishing in two years and says he met it, even after taking eight weeks off one summer. That was Terry’s own pace. The current program overview outlines flexible pacing options; students can consider a schedule that fits their circumstances.
What do you actually learn in biblical studies?
Terry points to church history, biblical themes, theological ideas, and research skills. He expects to draw on those subjects when speaking with and serving others. Learning to use Logos Bible Software for research was another benefit he had not anticipated.
He also addresses a common question about academic depth: he was wary of an online degree at first, but found the reading and studying substantial. His description is personal and direct: “the work was no joke.” Hear his comments at 13:21.
Can a seminary project serve a real ministry idea?
As Terry approached graduation, he and his wife were developing a ministry for older adults in care facilities. Her counseling training and his theological studies informed their plans, while they also pursued chaplaincy training. Terry says the research required for his final project helped them clarify the need, shape the program, and bring its pieces together.
They had formed a nonprofit, and Terry described feeling prepared and confident as they began the work. His experience is one example of the M.A. capstone’s focus: a project connected to a student’s calling and ministry efforts.
“To somebody like me who had no theology at all, I would say you can do it.”
What would Terry tell someone considering seminary?
He does not minimize how daunting it felt to begin. His practical advice is to decide to commit and find a steady rhythm for the coursework. Looking back, he says the study, spiritual formation, and research resources were worth the time and cost for him—even if personal growth had remained his main goal.
Congratulations to Terry Zeigler!
Congratulations to Terry Zeigler on completing his M.A. in Biblical Studies! His perseverance, dedication, and commitment to growing in his understanding of Scripture are an encouragement to the Redemption Seminary community. This milestone reflects his hard work and preparation for continued ministry and service.
Watch Terry’s full graduate interview. The sections below highlight key points from the interview.
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Terry says that after retiring from a 30-year law-enforcement career, he wanted to go deeper into Scripture, reconnect with God, and discern what might come next. His initial motivation was primarily personal and spiritual growth, not preparation for a conventional pastoral position.
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Terry discovered Redemption Seminary through Michael Heiser's material but hesitated for months because he had no background in ministry or theology. Starting a master's program in an unfamiliar subject felt “far out of reach” to him.
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Terry describes his first week as difficult: he was learning the technology, course structure, terminology, and subject matter at the same time. He seriously considered quitting. Once he worked through that initial learning curve, however, the experience improved substantially, and his first Spiritual Formation course increased his desire to keep learning.
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Terry says unfamiliar theological terminology initially made the program challenging, but working consistently with Professor Brueggemann helped. By his second course, he felt comfortable asking questions about both coursework and technology, and describes the professor as “super helpful.”
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Terry says Redemption's structure worked well for him because it gave him deadlines and encouraged a routine. He developed a weekly rhythm around his Thursday meetings and studying on weekends. He found that having a predictable schedule kept him on track.
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Terry set a personal goal of completing his program in two years and says he achieved it even though he took eight weeks off during one summer. The program can fit within a self-directed schedule.
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Terry contrasts simply reading Scripture with having the ability to discuss church history, theology, biblical motifs and themes, and research methods. He sees those skills as directly applicable to the teaching and ministry work he plans to do.
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Terry says the program gave him a “wellspring of information” from his courses. He specifically anticipates drawing on biblical themes and church history when giving talks, teaching, and potentially leading services.
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Terry's final project was directly connected to the ministry he and his wife were creating. He says the required research helped him determine what the program would look like, why it was needed, and how the pieces fit together.
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Terry says the final project “pulled everything together” for their new ministry and that he and his wife felt very prepared and confident as they began it.
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Terry directly addresses someone with no theological background: the program can initially seem daunting or overwhelming, but his advice is to commit and establish a consistent rhythm for completing the coursework.
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Terry says he was initially skeptical of an online degree, but found that “the work was no joke.” He emphasizes substantial reading and studying and says he learned a great deal through each course.
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Terry tells prospective students not to get hung up on the fact that the program is online or requires time out of their day. He describes the resulting spiritual formation and personal spiritual growth as invaluable.
Explore your next step
Whether you’re discerning a ministry direction or simply want to study Scripture more deeply, Redemption can help you understand the options available to you.
Considering your first course?
Explore the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies and answers to common admissions questions. Terry’s story is one graduate’s experience; the program pages explain current requirements and options.
Graduate Interview, Ethan Lafont
What is it like to complete a degree at Redemption Seminary while preparing for pastoral ministry? In this graduate interview, Dr. Joel Wingo talks with 2026 graduate Ethan Lafont about balancing seminary with work and family, completing his remaining 18 credits in two semesters, and the courses and mentoring experiences that most shaped his preparation for ministry. Ethan also reflects on what he would do differently if starting again—including his advice to slow down, spend more time with the material, and take full advantage of Redemption’s conversational mentoring model.
Congratulations to Ethan Lafont!
Congratulations to Ethan Lafont, a member of Redemption Seminary’s 2026 graduating class. Ethan has completed his degree while continuing to invest in his family and prepare for pastoral ministry. May the Lord continue to guide Ethan and his family, strengthen them for faithful service, and use their gifts for the good of the church wherever He calls them in the years ahead.
Student Details
Age Range: 20s, Location: Alabama
Previous Education: B.A. in History, Some seminary, Theopolis Fellows Program
Career & Ministry Service: Classical Christian school environments
Graduating Class: 2026
Use of Degree: His desire is to enter the pastorate and teach in higher education. He is currently looking into doctoral programs in Old Testament Biblical Studies.
Questions and His Answers When He Started
What excites you about earning your degree through Redemption Seminary?
I am excited to be close to completing my degree after 5 years of working towards it. Redemption's staff have been wonderful and helpful when I inquired about the seminary. I am excited to receive my degree from Redemption. It was a blessing to learn under such gifted and godly mentors, and that has prepared me to shepherd the people of God.
What Ethan has to say about his experience after he graduated
In this short interview, Dr. Joel Wingo (Redemption Seminary Academic Dean) interviews Ethan about his experience. Here are some of the questions that you will hear answers to.
Explain your sense of stewardship regarding your gifts and calling at Redemption. (1:00)
The more I labored in the church, the more I saw the Lord bless them. That made me feel responsible to nurture these efforts.
How did you finish the program in two semesters? How did you work seminary into your work and family life? (3:08)
I only had 18 credits due to transfer.
Still, it was a full commitment to learning, and the Lord blessed my efforts..
Was there a course that really stood out to you? (6:26)
Church History was fascinating and continues to strengthen the sense of the bond the Lord has sustained within his church over the ages.
The most challenging course was the final project, but it was the most rewarding. I built an entire class curriculum with the project.
What advice would you give yourself about starting the program? (9:50)
Take the time to study (work on assignments) early and deeply. The longer I spend in the material, the longer I remember it.
The conversational setting offers a lot if you spend more time with the material.
Options for You
You can experience this learning for yourself, even if you just want to try one course. Here is the link to get the quick application started.
Graduate Interview, Hanna Seymour
In this brief interview, Dr. Joel Wingo asked Hanna a series of questions about her experience at Redemption Seminary and how that experience is helping with her future plans.
They explored Hanna's motivations for pursuing the degree, her approach to completing it efficiently, and the impact it had on her personal and professional life. Finally, they touched on Hanna's future plans, including the possibility of starting a PhD program and her continued involvement with the Redemption community.
Congratulations to Hanna Seymour!
Hanna graduated with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies as part of the 2025 graduating class from Redemption Seminary. Hanna is an author, podcast host, and busy mother who is a bright light and a leader in women’s ministries.
Student Details
Age Range: 30s, Location: Tennessee
Previous Education: Master’s Degree in Education
Career & Ministry Service: Hanna is an author, Bible teacher, podcast producer, and host passionate about helping women walk faithfully with Jesus in their everyday lives.
Check out her books!
Graduating Class: 2025
Use of Degree: Growth in her current ministries and teaching. “I want to do my part to learn as much as I can, to allow the Lord to grow me in the ways He desires, in the hopes that I can pour out what I’ve learned so that others may follow.”
Questions and Her Answers When She Started
Why did you choose Redemption Seminary?
For several reasons! 1) I am familiar with Logos and was excited about a seminary that was built specifically for online learning, not a brick-and-mortar trying to figure out online learning. 2) The price cannot be beat. 3) The program structure (self-paced, online, mentor-professors, etc.) is the best fit for my season of life. 4) The ability to learn from experts in their respective fields from all over the world (Logos Ed profs). 5) The unique high-touch aspect of Redemption’s program through weekly mentoring. I couldn’t be more excited about Redemption!
What excites you about earning your degree through Redemption Seminary?
I love that Redemption is interdenominational. I am looking forward to being challenged and encouraged in growing deeper in knowledge, understanding, and application of who God is-- how that will affect me personally as well as influence my ability to minister to and disciple others.
What Hanna has to say about her experience after she graduated
In this short interview, Dr. Joel Wingo (Redemption Seminary Academic Dean) interviews Hanna about her experience. Here are some of the questions that you will hear answers to.
How did you celebrate your achievement? (0:0)
We had a ceremony/celebration at my house with family and friends. We dressed up in our regalia. My dad said some words about the achievement and publicly presented the diploma.
Hanna mentioned that it was an unofficial ceremony, but it actually was “official.” The student handbook encourages graduates to plan their own commencement ceremony. They could be at home, at an event center, or as part of a church service. Way to go, Hanna.
What led you to start the program? (2:39)
I wanted seminary training to help with writing. I just never thought it was possible with young children.
James 3:1 Teachers are held to a higher standard, so we need to be careful in our teaching of others.
I wanted to understand the reasons behind different interpretations and traditions within the church.
Why were you interested in a multi-denominational seminary? (5:56)
I wanted to know why there are different interpretations and the reasons for their positions. As Christians, it is essential to engage with differences respectfully.
Did the program help you distinguish primary and secondary issues? (7:30)
Yes, and I learned where to go to dig more deeply into these issues.
What was your favorite course (the course that had the most benefit)? (8:32)
All of them were tremendous.
The course I refer to most in my writing was the first course on Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders, because it has such critical applications.
The discipleship course that helps identify your community’s needs helped launch my most recent book, “Everyday Spiritual Habits.”
What practice advice do you have for others for completing the program or working through courses? (10:30)
Figure out how and when you will do the work. I had a strict schedule for myself with a bit of time in the morning and a little time in the evening. I found that I was most comfortable working through four of the seven units of a course before meeting with my mentor. This also helped me review and refresh my understanding of what I studied, which improved retention.
I built in breaks for the holidays.
Once my schedule was set up, the process was as straightforward as paint-by-numbers.
What are your future plans? (14:40)
I am planning to pursue a PhD in biblical exposition
Options for You
You can experience this learning for yourself, even if you just want to try one course. Here is the link to get the quick application started.
Graduate Interview, Adam Driggers
In this brief interview, Dr. Joel Wingo, Redemption’s Academic Dean, sits down with Adam—a lifelong church servant, elder, teacher, and ministry leader—to talk about his journey into theological education and how Redemption fit seamlessly into his life and calling.
Adam shares what first prompted him to consider seminary after decades of faithful ministry, how he wove Redemption’s coursework into the early-morning study routine he already loved, and why moving from self-directed learning to a structured program turned out to be far more enjoyable than he expected.
He reflects on the courses that stretched him the most, the capstone project that strengthened his preaching, and the steady pace that allowed him to finish the program in just over two years without disrupting his ministry or professional responsibilities. Adam also offers practical advice for anyone considering the program—especially those with established routines or busy schedules—and describes how Redemption helped deepen his reading, sharpen his thinking, and enrich his discipleship of others.
If you’re wondering what Redemption Seminary is really like for a committed church leader, Adam’s story is an encouraging and honest look at how a guided, mentor-based program can fuel growth, strengthen ministry, and fit into the rhythms of everyday life.
Congratulations to Adam Driggers!
Adam graduated with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies as part of the 2025 graduating class from Redemption Seminary. Adam is a business owner and active in his church.
Student Details
Age Range: Over 50, Location: Florida
Career: Professional, Business Owner
Ministry Service: Speaking Pastor
Graduating Class: 2025
Use of Degree: Deepened personal understanding and Bible study skills, improved teaching and message preparation for service to his church (boldcitychurch.com)
See for yourself what Adam has to say about his experience
In this short interview, Dr. Joel Wingo (Redemption Seminary Academic Dean) interviews Adam about his experience. Here are some of the questions that you will hear answers to.
What were you thinking about when considering enrolling in a seminary program? (0:36)
I had grown up in church my whole life, but then got serious about studying the Bible. … Since I was already putting the time in, I decided to earn a degree with that effort.
What was it like working Redemption’s degree program into your busy professional life? (2:02)
I was already devoting hours each morning, so I simply plugged in the Redemption program to that devoted time.
What was it like changing from your self-directed study time to a prescribed program? (2:50)
I feared going into seminary that I would be bored since I couldn’t choose what to study as much as I could on my own. However, I didn’t really run into boredom because it was so enjoyable.
What were your favorite and least favorite courses? (4:07)
Church History was my least favorite, even though it is often listed as many students’ favorite.
The last course, the capstone writing course, was my favorite because I could present my work as mini messages, which improved my sermon presentation abilities.
What was the topic of your capstone?
How we live, saved. How to improve discipleship within a mobile church structure.
Encouraging the body of the importance of discipleship.
What was your method and pace for working through courses? (7:45)
Early on, I completed 50%-70% of the work before meeting with a mentor.
At the end, I was working on multiple courses at the same time.
How long did it take you to complete the program? (9:03)
Just over two years. I could have done it quicker, but I liked this pace.
Advice for others?
Figure out your schedule and commit to it. Redemption can accommodate any schedule. Push forward.
Take your current Bible study time and redirect it to the program.
Is there an area of growth in your life, even for a mature believer? (11:59)
The level of my reading is now at a deeper level and engaging better scholars.
“I really enjoyed it and am glad that I heard about it through the AWKNG School of Theology. ”
How Adam is Advancing the Kingdom
Adam has been rooted in the life of the church since childhood and has faithfully served the local body throughout his adult life. Since marrying in 1994, he has invested in the church through a wide range of ministries—ushering, greeting, teaching Sunday School, and leading numerous small-group classes. His most formative season of service was in youth ministry, where he and his wife discipled students, including the young man who would later become their current pastor.
After he completed college, returned home, and eventually planted a church, Adam and his wife joined the new congregation to support the work. Adam now serves as a board member and elder, teaches and preaches several times each year, and maintains regular communication with the pastoral staff to encourage, support, and assist them as needs arise. He and his wife remain active in small groups, and Adam also provides leadership by helping guide a weekly men’s Bible study. Through steady, relational, and humble service, Adam continues to advance the kingdom in meaningful and lasting ways.
Options for You
You can experience this learning for yourself, even if you just want to try one course. Here is the link to get the quick application started.
Graduate Interview, Robert Frisone
Robert graduated with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies as part of the first graduating class from Redemption Seminary (2022). Watch a short interview where Dr. Joel Wingo (Redemption Seminary Academic Dean) interviews Robert Frisone about his experience earning a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies at Redemption Seminary. He asks about Robert's fears and questions about how the program would fit into his full-time schedule. Robert explains how he completed the program in two years without compromising on important areas of his life. He asks about which courses impacted him the most and why. Robert explains how the program helped him apply theology to his life and ministry. Robert also provides tips for potential students.
Congratulations to Robert Frisone!
Robert graduated with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies as part of the first graduating class from Redemption Seminary (2022). He received a Vanguard Award for his initiative to build a bigger online discussion platform for all Redemption students.
See for yourself what Robert has to say about his experience
In this short interview, Dr. Joel Wingo (Redemption Seminary Academic Dean) interviews Robert about his experience. He asks about Robert's fears and questions about how the program would fit into his full-time schedule. Robert explains how he completed the program in two years without compromising on important areas of his life. He asks about which courses impacted him the most and why. Robert explains how the program helped him apply theology to his life and ministry. Robert also provides tips for potential students.
“It has been quite life-changing for me. I didn’t think I would have the opportunity to earn a master’s degree while I was still working full-time. Redemption offered me the opportunity to earn my degree while continuing in ministry and enhancing the ministry that I’m doing. So I’m really grateful for that. ”
Options for You
You can experience this learning for yourself, even if you just want to try one course. Here is the link to get the quick application started.
Graduate Interview, Patricia Iorillo
Patricia graduated with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies as part of the first graduating class from Redemption Seminary.
Patricia enrolled in the program already having earned a Master of Science in Educational Psychology and is highly qualified to speak about the educational quality and innovative structure of Redemption Seminary. Listen to what she says as she discusses her experience with Redemption’s Academic Dean, Dr. Joel Wingo.
Congratulations to Patricia Iorillo!
Patricia graduated with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies as part of the first graduating class from Redemption Seminary (2022) and received a Vanguard Award for her patience and helpful feedback to Redemption Seminary as she worked through the program.
Description of the Redemption Experience
Patricia enrolled in the program already having earned a Master of Science in Educational Psychology and is highly qualified to speak about the educational quality and innovative structure of Redemption Seminary. Listen to what she says as she discusses her experience with Redemption’s Academic Dean, Dr. Joel Wingo.
Notes from her reflections on her experience
The onboarding course provided her confidence with Logos and other digital applications which she didn’t have experience with before the program.
Church History was her favorite course because as she says, “You really don’t know history until you know church history. This program helped her really know Church history.”
The structured coursework and live mentoring were her favorite parts of Redemption’s innovative model.
She produced a workbook for her Bible Study Fellowship group for her final project and will be using that as the foundation for the doctoral work that she is now pursuing.
The Final Project
The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies program finishes with two six-credit courses that allow students time to build content for their current ministry efforts and guides them through building a strategic plan for getting the most out of it and helping it work smoothly in their ministry setting. The idea is that this coursework isn’t merely preparatory. It has immediate and enduring benefits. Take a listen to how Patricia describes her experience with the final project.
Experience with the Redemption Model
Redemption’s workbook approach and mentoring provides learning through a new model. Take a listen to how Patricia explains how this approach worked for her and the challenges that she overcame.
1-Minute Review
Take a listen to this review of the Redemption Seminary from a graduate who knows the Redemption model firsthand.
Options for You
You can experience this learning for yourself, even if you just want to try one course. Here is the link to get the quick application started.