Two generations separate them. Despite the age difference, Daniel Foster and John Magnuson have lunch together as often as possible in the Seminary’s dining hall. What draws them together? Blood, for one thing. A shared interest in theological education for another.
Daniel is John’s grandfather and fellow PTS student. He began taking classes at the Seminary in 2007 after returning from a mission trip and asking his pastor, “How do I pray?” She suggested that Daniel take a few classes at the Seminary. “I wanted to be a better disciple,” he explained.
John started at the Seminary last fall and is enrolled as a full-time M.Div. student. “It’s cool to be able to talk to my grandpa at school. When I was growing up, faith wasn’t a part of our conversation. But during college we got to talking about religion and faith. That discussion continues today.”
As the Seminary has provided a common setting for both grandfather and grandson to share and experience life, they both look with openness to what lies ahead. Daniel, who has a heart for Sudan and the advancement of women’s rights, is trying to set up a scholarship for women from Africa to come to seminary. His aspiration was born and has been cultivated during his time at Pittsburgh Seminary. Responding to his grandfather’s goals John says with a chuckle, “I’m learning theology now, but who knows what I’ll be doing when I turn 80!”
While the future is open for both men wherever the Lord may lead, it is certain they will be advancing God’s kingdom by bridging the Word and the world together.
Written August 2011