My McCormick Journey
April 30, 2025
Rebeca DeLeon- Sanger, CA
Which McCormick tradition, practice, activity, or policy are you most proud of?
Having the opportunity to write a chapter in a book and see it published. “Journeys in Genesis” Unveiling Migration Stories in the Bible. The tradition of starting each class with prayer, a devotional, or sharing "I enter this circle feeling…" was the best.
What is your most difficult in seminary memory?
The passing of my mother during my first year of seminary was an incredibly challenging time for me. However, the strength of her love and memory motivated me to continue and excel, for which I am grateful to God.
In my Research Methods class, I felt pushed to my limits. At times, I felt overwhelmed and as if I were in over my head. This class kept me awake at night and made me doubt myself more than any other class. Nevertheless, it was also the class where I experienced the most growth. I gained confidence in myself as a writer and learned to give myself more credit for taking on new challenges. I discovered the importance of perseverance, no matter how difficult the task at hand may be.
What is your most memorable McCormick event?
Formation Week – Intentional Rest is life-changing
What was the most enjoyable book you had to read for seminary work?
“Nobody Cries When You Die” by Patrick Reyes, which we read in PIF for the first class we took in the fall of 2023, was a book I truly enjoyed. The author shared real-life stories, and the impact of God in his life was incredibly inspiring! I read this book during a challenging time in my personal life, and it truly blessed me. It fostered much personal reflection and growth.
What was your favorite class and why?
Pilgrimage of Faithfulness - it is a journey where individuals discover their vocations. Personally, it is the place where I reflected deeply on my calling and gained a clearer understanding of it. After completing this class, I felt empowered and affirmed in my commitment to ministry.
In retrospect, do you think your expectations of when you joined the seminary have been met? My expectations have been exceeded. Since this was a 100% remote class, I enjoyed feeling part of McCormick and never felt left out because of the distance learning method.
What is your advice to the continuing students?
Never stop growing and never underestimate yourself!
Any parting thoughts or final reflections you would like to share?
McCormick has stretched me, shaped me, and called me to action in ways I never anticipated. I leave this experience not only with new insights but also with a renewed sense of purpose and a heart more open to where God is leading me next! I am forever grateful for this amazing opportunity and thankful to my family (my husband and children) and my church family (FOH) for their unwavering support and love! They have watched me grow, cheered me on along the way, and understood when I couldn’t do something or be somewhere because I had class or homework. It takes a village, and I am so thankful for my village and my community of faith!
God Bless You!