We recently checked in with Kayela Horn, a student at Duke Divinity School and a 2025-2026 Foundation Seminary Scholarship recipient:
Overall, my experience at Duke Divinity School has been amazing. My cohort has created a beloved community that has been both encouraging and grounding as we learn and discern our calls alongside one another. They have created such a safe space to discuss ministry and theology. I have also been blessed to build meaningful relationships with professors, who have sat down to lunch to discuss topics of faith and life circumstances with me. The experience has far exceeded my expectations. If I were to pick one moment that has stood out to me the most within the past year, it would be the opportunity to help lead the Black Seminarian Union’s Pop-Up Worship Service. I am a student who participates in class discussion, but has not had the opportunity to help lead worship during any of our Chapel services. As a pastor who serves in a predominantly European-American church and conference, I found that having the opportunity to worship alongside Black Clergy and peers was a gift. Being asked to help lead the service was very unexpected and affirming. I have spent years adapting to worship in an expression that is vastly different from what I was raised in. Standing in Goodson Chapel, leading in worship with the liturgical styles, music, and expressions that feel like home was a moment I will never forget.
I am currently preparing for the last year of my 4-year program. I am in Durham for my last summer session, and I am trying to be intentional about using this time to discern my next steps. I am currently meeting with professors to discuss doctoral program options. While I have spent the last three years saying a doctoral program was not for me, this past year has caused me to reconsider. Classes with Dr. Kate Bowler, Dr. Michelle Lewis, and Dr. Brittany Wilson have deepened my passion for biblical justice and for the slow, intentional work of reconstructing faith. While I do not have answers yet, I am exploring my options, seeking guidance from trusted advisors, and trusting the Spirit to lead the way in what the next right “yes” is for me.
Way to go, Kayela!
Seminary education requires a serious commitment of time, talent, and treasure from each student. Likewise, the Church is committed to providing significant financial support to ensure that qualified students have adequate resources to answer the call to ministry.
For United Methodists in Missouri, there are a number of grants and scholarships available from several different sources. Learn more about these opportunities here.