Southern Stories
A Complete Vision
June 5, 2009
A Complete Vision: Fulfilling Needs Now...and Later
The Rev. Scott Ness, Class of 2005, and his wife Deanna have recently made a generous contribution to the seminary's New Life Fund and the establishment of a scholarship fund.
"Our time at seminary was very meaningful," Pastor Ness explains. "Not only did it form and equip me for ministry, but it was a special time in our lives. The lessons learned and friendships formed have deep value and meaning to both of us. Recently, we found ourselves at a point where we could contribute financially to ensure that these lessons and friendships will benefit future generations of seminary students."
When the couple first spoke with Vice President for Development Ron Walrath their intention was solely towards establishing a scholarship. They were aware of tight budget issues, but they wanted their gift to help more students over a longer period of time.
However, Scott says, "When Ron highlighted ongoing expenses the seminary has on a daily basis, Deanna and I were moved to support current operations as well. We saw and heard the need and wanted to do what we could to help."
With deep appreciation for the Ness family's open, giving spirit, Walrath emphasizes the importance of financial support for today and tomorrow and tells how that concept is interpreted to donors.
"We present a both-and opportunity rather than an either-or. Scholarship endowments such as the one Scott and Deanna have established ensure the future mission of the seminary, while their contribution to the New Life Fund enables that mission to happen immediately."
Pastor Ness reflects on their decision-making process. "I could quote scripture and give you one of my better stewardship sermons on the reason for our gift, but I think the motivation goes much deeper than proof texting stewardship verses. More than any reason, our gift was our devotion of walking in faith with our Savior. (Maybe that is a stewardship sermon.) The Lord put the desire in our hearts, and we could not deny his leading. It is nice to know that our gift helped current and future students, it is nice to be recognized, it is even nice to have an article written about us—but the true blessing that we receive is in our joy-filled hearts of walking with Jesus where He leads us."
He also mentions the influence of the late Virgil Summer, who had served as chair of the seminary board, and his wife Vera. "During my field education at Our Saviour, West Columbia, I had the opportunity to meet many faithful people, including the Summers. When Virgil died, I was deeply blessed by time spent with Vera. Through our connection I realized the vital impact they have had on Southern Seminary. Their support, dedication, commitment, and financial generosity helped the seminary succeed in its mission. They understood the gift of stewardship and taught others of its blessings by their actions."
Now, the Ness family applies the lesson learned from the Summers and are leading by their own actions. President Marcus Miller expresses gratitude for the two-fold gift of this young couple. "I am very grateful for the generous gift that Scott and Deanna have made but even more grateful for the opportunity that I had to get to know them in this process. Their remembrances of Southern Seminary help me get more deeply connected to the story of this wonderful place. Their desire to further the mission of Christ's Church in Grove City, through the ministry of the Seminary, and beyond is an example to all of us."
Article by Cristy Fossum
