On October 29, over 250 people from across North America helped to commemorate MB Biblical Seminary's first 50 years at a celebration dinner and program at the Sunnyside Racquet Club in Fresno, California. Alumni, current students, faculty, staff and supporters of the Seminary enjoyed a buffet dinner and various displays of the Seminary's history. After the meal, a formal program focused on the past, present and future of MB Biblical Seminary.
"The event was an opportunity to give thanks to God for his goodness to the seminary over the past fifty years and to remind ourselves again of the mission of MB Biblical Seminary for the future," said President Jim Holm.
The Seminary's influence in the Fresno area was highlighted by Councilman President Mike Dages. The Seminary was presented with a plaque from the Mayor's office as well as a letter from the Governor. "The Fresno campus is a jewel of the San Joaquin Valley, and I believe the 50th celebration helped expose the potential we have to train and equip those that have not yet graced our campuses," said Sharon Balint, Assistant to Holm and organizer of the evening.
A video produced by the Seminary, Celebrating the Legacy: Our First 50 Years was shown, as was a slide show featuring alumni from the past 50 years. Many guests particularly enjoyed a question and answer time with five of the Seminary's past presidents who offered insights and anecdotes of their years of service in that capacity.
A major faculty contribution to the Seminary's anniversary was the book Out of the Strange Silence: The Challenge of Being Christian in the 21st Century. Professors Tim Geddert and Ray Bystrom humorously introduced the book, and a copy was given to each guest.
Perspectives were heard from two alumni, a current student and a graduate of the Ministry Quest program sponsored by MB Biblical Seminary. An offering taken during the evening went towards an international student endowment, with the hope of bringing more international students to the Fresno campus to study.
President Jim Holm closed the celebration with a statement of his vision for the future of the Seminary. Holm expressed, "Our intention is that our mission honor Jesus Christ and that we recommit ourselves to the training of disciples for Christ's kingdom."