Cross-cultural Ministry Center
Jean-Enock Berus ’19, MA ’23
Master of Arts in Theology
I was born in Haiti and went to school at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and School, Port-au-Prince. After high school, I attended a seminar to become a teacher and began working as a teacher and youth leader at Good Shepherd. After an earthquake hit Haiti in 2010, I began working as a translator for visiting missionaries. In that role, I met Pastor Quinton Anderson from Concordia and Pastor S.T. Wiliams from St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church of Los Angeles.
I came to Concordia and earned my undergraduate degree in Theological Studies in 2019. When applying for the Cross-cultural Ministry program, Concordia helped me apply for grants and made it possible to pursue a master’s degree in theology. If it weren’t for the grants, I would not be part of this program.
A transformative part of the program is serving a four-year vicarage while you study.
I served my vicarage alongside Pastor Williams at St. Paul, Grace Lutheran Church of Los Angeles, and St. Philip Lutheran Church in Compton. During the four years, I learned about each congregation, the overall church work experience, and how to speak confidently in the pulpit.
Concordia’s support system reminded me that I was never alone. If I had a question, a professor helped me or provided the resource for me. The professors are passionate about teaching God’s Word to the next generation and preparing us to share our faith wherever we are. The Concordia community is exceptionally equipped to help students fulfill their calling.
ENOCK’S ADVICE:
This program allows you to learn from your coursework and also from the church where you are serving. Practice at the same time as learning is incredibly beneficial.
ENOCK’S FUN FACT:
I started my college career path at age 28.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CONCORDIA EXPERIENCE?
Being a Resident Assistant and a servant leader in my dorm community to help train, support, and equip the next generation.
INVOLVEMENT AT CONCORDIA:
- International Office Assistant
- Resident Assistant
- Campus Safety Gate Attendant
The Cross-cultural Ministry Center (CMC) at Concordia University Irvine is committed to forming faithful missionary pastors to initiate and develop culture-crossing ministries. In partnership with Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, the CMC meets the multi-cultural contextual needs of 21st Century America and the needs of the LCMS, providing academic and practical training, forming missionary pastors and church leaders who are skilled at crossing cultures and reaching the lost with the Gospel
Questions? Contact Dr. Glenn Fluegge at [email protected], 949.214.3405. Or visit us online.