A 1952 graduate of L.I.F.E. Bible College, Kenneth Wold remembers how Orlando Shields changed his life during the “Yesterdays of Jesus (Old Testament Theophanies)” class. Sealed in Ken’s heart from that class is the truth that Jesus’ promises of yesterday, today, and tomorrow have the promise of His presence, power, and provision.
Most memorable to his time as a student is meeting Bobbi (Roberta) Hardeman, who agreed to be his wife and partner in ministry. Ken is also thankful for developing a deep love for the living and written Word and a thirst for the Holy Spirit. He gained lifelong friendships with classmates, some of which remain to this day. His experience at L.I.F.E. became the foundation of a global ministry career spanning more than 70 years.
Initially, Ken and Bobbi spent most of their time in senior pastor ministry, primarily in the Pacific Northwest. After 40 years of stateside pastoral service, the Lord opened the door for them to begin ministering overseas through Foursquare Missions International (F.M.I.). This opportunity became the “crowing season and fulfillment of their lives and ministry” as they served in Papua New Guinea from 1992-1997 and then for several years as Missions Reps, participating in several short-term overseas assignments and reporting stateside in churches about the work of F.M.I. According to Ken, “every church and all the dear saints they have served have had an everlasting impact on their lives.”
Nominating Ken for the Kingdom Leadership Award, Pam Keselburg says that he is considered fondly as a “father in the faith with the heart of a shepherd.” His impact throughout his pastoral career has impacted generations of families.
Ken is quick to give the Lord all the glory for everything good and noteworthy in his life and ministry. Holding to Galatians 2:20 as his life verse, Ken says, “we participate first in His (Christ’s) death and burial, and then His resurrection.” An exemplary leader and man, the fruit of Ken’s faithful witness are seen in the lives of his six children, 24 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren, of which 19 have attended and/or graduated from Life Pacific University. Ken continues to minister to his local community through hospital visitation in Oregon and Washington.
Kingdom Leadership Alumnus of the Year Award:
LPU alumni demonstrating faithful and Kingdom-focused leadership while serving within the Church, the marketplace, a local community agency, or an organization (nominees serving in a voluntary or non-paid position will be considered).
