New student Cody Simpkins, from Cincinnati, Ohio, is thankful for the learning environment at Clear Creek that has given him new insight into ministering to people.

“I was raised in a catholic household but no real emphasis on the love of God, or who Jesus really was,” says Simpkins. “I knew the name and that was about it. My best friend invited me to church one day after track practice and I started going. After helping out with my first VBS, God really spoke to me. The following Sunday the pastor preached on the parable of the lost sheep. I knew I was lost, I knew God was calling out to me to come home and I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior.”

“After accepting Christ I got involved in the church serving where I was needed,” says Simpkins. “I also enlisted in to the United States Marine Corps after feeling called by God to do so. When I came home I stayed involved in the church and started working with the youth. I felt a call to ministry and my pastor recommended Clear Creek. I initially visited the campus four years ago but never enrolled. I am glad I am here now.”

“I enjoy my classes,” says Simpkins. “Sometimes I will ask, “How in the world is this going to help me?” and God tends to answer that question pretty quickly, (most of the time during class). As I grow in knowledge and understanding through all of these classes I see the relevance to ministry and how I can apply them to the ministry God has called me to do.”

“Clear Creek is not easy,” says Simpkins. “However, it is one of the most rewarding experiences a person could have. The fellowship and the building up of one another allows me the ability to call Clear Creek my home. Someone is always right there ready to pick you up and walk with you through whatever you are dealing with. Clear Creek has helped me develop a better attitude and a softer heart towards people. Jesus gave us the commandment to love one another as He loved us and I believe Clear Creek represents that to the fullest extent possible.”

Donnie Fox is president of Clear Creek Baptist Bible College, 300 Clear Creek Road, Pineville, KY 40977; toll-free: (866) 340-3196; ccbbc.edu; email: dfox@ccbbc.edu.