We believe that God is leading us to temporarily step away from full-time ministry so that Connor can focus on theological training that will prepare us for a lifetime of service to the church.

Five years ago, Connor began his Master of Divinity, which is roughly when he entered full-time church ministry. During this time, we have seen college-aged students wrestling with questions that range from the nature of the Trinity to the validity of Protestantism compared to Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. Today’s young people are spiritual, and they are seeking meaning and truth beyond what social media and A.I. can offer. Unfortunately, that’s often where they find their answers. We are increasingly convinced that in an age of influencers and YouTube theologians, the church is helped by those who are able to spend significant time studying God’s Word and church history.

Reformed Theological Seminary, where Connor is currently enrolled, has one of the longest MDiv programs in the country. The program is excellent, but it would take 3–4 more years to complete at Connor’s current (part-time) pace. Our desire and sense of calling is for Connor to pursue a PhD after the MDiv (an additional 3–5 years). We have seen a need for well-trained pastors who can help the church grapple with theological issues that trickle down into everyday questions about how we worship and live. We believe God has called and gifted our family for this work.

We trust this training is a worthwhile investment, and we feel the urgency of completing it and returning to full-time ministry soon, equipped and healthy. Our plan is for Connor to begin full-time seminary studies in January, which will enable him to finish by May 2028 and, Lord-willing, start a PhD program in fall 2028. Our family is relocating to Charlotte in January 2027 in order to be closer to the seminary.

We are inviting friends and family to partner with us financially. God has already provided tuition funding, and we are now seeking to raise $60,000 per year to cover living expenses. As we prepare to welcome our third child, we are especially mindful of the responsibility to steward our family well while pursuing this calling. Financial partnership would allow us to prioritize Connor’s full-time studies while caring well for our family.

Would you prayerfully consider joining us through a monthly or annual gift before the end of the year? We would be deeply grateful for your partnership, whether through financial support, prayer, or encouragement. We look forward to sharing how God works in and through our family during this season.

With gratitude,

Connor and Rachel Hubbard (and kids!)