Graduate - Catherine Au

Graduation is a day of profound gratitude and celebration. First and foremost, we thank God for His faithful guidance. Over the past two years—from the moment we first stepped into CCST Vancouver until the completion of our MTS program—it has been a journey of mixed emotions: a season of life truly overflowing with grace.

Our original campus was not a grand building, yet beneath its modest roof, it was overflowing with the love and interaction we shared in the Lord. I still remember how, even after our late-evening classes had ended, our professors—despite their fatigue—would tirelessly and patiently stay behind to resolve our doubts. In the face of relentless assignments and intensive curriculum, we became each other’s pillars of strength, cheering one another on and interceding in prayer. What remains equally unforgettable are the moments we served together in worship, the sincere sharing and spiritual watchfulness we offered one another as brothers and sisters. Furthermore, we cannot forget the unsung heroes of our campus—our staff—who dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to resolving our academic hurdles and graciously helping our international students adapt to their new lives upon arrival. These interactions were like a glimpse of the Kingdom of Heaven, permeating every corner of the campus. Each scene told a story of God’s love, ensuring that every student at CCST experienced the all-encompassing and abundant grace of our Heavenly Father.

Studying for the MTS degree is like someone learning to swim, from the vulnerability of letting go of the float to experiencing the pure joy of the water. As our theological "stroke", we grew bolder, venturing into deeper water and finding a sense of peace in a more serene, beautiful landscape. However, I believe this is not a shore to settle on permanently. We should not simply linger in what we have already mastered, we must continue to seek God’s leading, stepping out of our comfort zones to offer ourselves for the expansion of His Kingdom.

At this time, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to every faculty member, staff, and fellow student who have walked this path of growth alongside us. My heartfelt thanks also go to our families and friends for your unwavering support. A warm word of care, a hot meal shared in fellowship, or even a simple snack to keep us awake during class—all these were tangible expressions of God’s love. These rich memories will surely remain in our hearts as the strength we need for the road ahead. May the Heavenly Father remember the love you have shown us. May God bless every graduate, and may CCST Vancouver continue to be a cradle for Gospel ministry education.

Catherine Au - Master of Theological Studies Graduate