Steven Wallace (EU ’95)
Current occupation: Assemblies of God World Missionary to Finland
What brought you to Springfield?
My parents met while students at Evangel, and they had a wonderful experience. As it came time for me to decide where I should pursue my degree, I knew that God wanted me in a Christian environment with a strong tradition of excellence. Evangel was the natural choice.
How did you experience God’s presence in your life while a student at Evangel?
I encountered God at Evangel in a way I never had before. On my very first day on campus, God began charting a course for me to pursue world missions. I was in a welcome chapel service my very first day, and President Spence invited all of the new students to come forward and offer a prayer to commit their time at Evangel to the Lord. In that very moment, God put the nation of Argentina on my heart. That began my journey to serving as a missionary to Argentina for 13 years.
What were some of the greatest lessons you learned while at Evangel?
I grew up in a very small town in northern Michigan, and at Evangel I was able to interact with students from across the country and around the world. Learning from students whose backgrounds were so different than mine was invaluable.
I also developed a deep hunger and passion for God during my time at Evangel that continues to this day. I recall participating in early morning prayer times, evening gatherings, and devotion time with friends that marked my life in a way I’ll never forget.
How have you used what you learned at Evangel in your career as a full-time missionary?
I earned a degree in Spanish Education from Evangel, and I pursued a teaching career directly following graduation. That led me to work at a Hispanic church in New Jersey, and it was there that I pursued my ministerial credentials and became commissioned to serve as a full-time world missionary.
In Argentina, I used my education background to help lead one of the country’s national Bible colleges. I was able to disciple and train future pastors and ministers until I felt the call of God to redirect my focus to northern Europe in the country of Finland.
I’ve been in Finland since 2016, working with university students. It’s a unique blend of education and ministry, and Evangel equipped me for this role.
What would you tell a potential student considering Evangel?
I would encourage any students who may be interested in gaining their education from an institution with a track record of excellence to consider Evangel. You will be trained and formed not only in mind, but in heart, for service to God. The global opportunities available to students are so incredibly valuable, and I would encourage anyone interested to take a leap of faith and apply.