NORTH CAROLINA – On Sunday, June 23, Steve McGee graduated from the Ministry Training Institute (MTI) with a leadership in ministry certificate in pastoral ministry.

All the way back in the fall of 2020, Steve and his wife Paula were attending Northside Community Church in Knightdale, N.C. MTI, still in its infancy at that time, caught the attention of Steve, who had already been a faithful student and teacher of God’s Word for many years. Steve approached Pastor Adrian Dixon to ask him about the program, and Adrian encouraged him, “Just take one class at a time, and see how it goes.”

Three and a half years and dozens of classes later, it’s safe to say that it went well. Pastor Matt Rice, Steve’s advisor, shared some encouraging words in Steve’s graduation ceremony via video message: “We are so excited to celebrate you … Steve, I am so proud of you, not only as an MTI field director, but as a former pastor, and most importantly as a friend … I am very excited to see how the Lord is going to continue to use you.”

Although he also could not attend in person, Pastor Adrian shared his encouragement in a letter: “As one of the first students in the program, you were a blessing to me and had a passion for the material we were learning. You were an example to your peers and as a participant in the early stages of MTI, your grace and support allowed the program to adapt and improve. I’m so very proud of you and have been grateful to see your growth and the opportunities you’ve had to use your gifts for the kingdom. Thank you for staying the course and as you continue using your gifts in ministry, may you be encouraged that the learning never stops.”

Steve expressed his gratitude to everyone involved with his journey through MTI, especially his wife Paula. “I want to thank my family and friends who have driven a long way to be here today. I deeply appreciate you doing that.”

Hickory Grove Church is so grateful to God for the gift that the McGees are to our church family! We have watched Steve grow so much in the last few years, and we pray that God’s Spirit will continue to cultivate the gifts that Steve has been given for the edification of God’s people.

Steve plans to retire from his secular job next year. At that point he will begin to explore his options in ministry. Pray for Steve as he seeks God’s will for the next chapter in his life.

If you’re interested in watching Steve’s graduation ceremony, click here.

If you’re interested in listening to Steve’s sermon, delivered earlier in the service, on the inerrancy of Scripture, click here.

If you’re interested in reading a brief sample of Steve’s academic work, click here.

If you’re interested in learning about the Ministry Training Institute, especially if you want to grow as a student or teacher of God’s word, or in any area of church leadership, click here.

MTI’s “vision is to see churches equipped with wise and theologically formed Christian leaders who serve their families, ministries, and communities in accordance with the mission of God.”