Introducing Kelsey Elliott, a student at Nazarene Theological College (NTC) in Manchester, currently pursuing a Master’s in Theology with a focus on Humanitarian Development and Social Justice.

Why NTC? Why Eurasia?

NTC was a school I had heard spoken of fondly for years during my time as an undergraduate at Trevecca. It was one of the schools I once considered applying to directly after graduation, but at that time, God had other plans for my life.
About a year ago, I began to feel a stirring to continue my education. I had been serving for several years in the place where I was born and raised, and I sensed God gently leading me toward something different. It felt like God was pointing me back to a place that had once been a possibility, now becoming an opportunity.
The more I looked into NTC and spoke with others about it, the more the peace of God washed over me. I knew this was where the next chapter would begin.

Do you have previous experience in the Eurasia Region?

Yes, I do. During my time at Trevecca, I completed an internship in Zagreb, Croatia. In the summer of 2019, my peers and I spent several months learning, serving, and growing alongside the church there. The work being done with refugees and asylum seekers deeply shaped me and remains very close to my heart.

This past summer, I also had the opportunity to travel to Spain on a short term mission trip with my home church, Waverly Church of the Nazarene in Tennessee. Serving alongside the Dickersons and the church in Fuenlabrada was incredibly meaningful. The church there is Christ centered and Spirit filled. Through these experiences, I have seen firsthand that the Eurasia Region is both blessed and a blessing, actively living out the Kingdom of God here and now.

What do you enjoy most about studying at NTC?

Even though I am just beginning my time at NTC, it already feels like home. From the very first day, there has been a strong sense of community, warmth, and deep faithfulness. There is a peace that can be felt the moment you step onto campus.
The classes are academically rigorous, yet deeply rooted in pursuing God and participating in God’s mission. What is happening here feels beautiful, good, and holy.

How do you hope this education will shape your calling?

I am currently working toward a Master’s in Theology, following the pathway of Humanitarian Development and Social Justice. I considered several different pathways, but this was the one that most clearly spoke to God’s calling on my life.
My prayer is that this education will shape and prepare me for the work God has ahead, whatever that may look like. I hope to carry what I learn at NTC, both through the classroom and through the community, wherever God leads me next.