As Mia Rinehart prepares to graduate from Life Pacific University East in Christiansburg, Virginia, she reflects on a transformative journey that reshaped her understanding of ministry, deepened her love for Jesus, and ignited a lifelong passion for obedience to God’s call.
“My time at LPU has completely reframed my understanding of what it means to be in ministry,” Mia shares. “It is easy to assume that ministry means preaching from the pulpit every Sunday, but learning from so many skilled professors and leaders throughout my time here has taught me that ministry happens wherever I go, no matter what I am doing.”
Whether in the church, the marketplace, or everyday life, Mia has come to see ministry as a lifestyle—one rooted in constant surrender and obedience. And for her, LPU has been more than a place of learning; it has been a launchpad for real-life ministry.
One of her most impactful experiences was the opportunity to speak at Foursquare camps, conferences, and churches. “It is so amazing that LPU doesn’t just talk about equipping leaders for ministry but actually empowers them to do ministry during their time as students.”
That spirit of empowerment has shaped Mia’s heart and future. Her favorite verse, Psalm 27:4, echoes the desire that now fuels her every step: “One thing I ask from the Lord… that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.”
“My time at LPU has truly set my heart on fire for Jesus,” she says. “When I was in high school, I loved Jesus, but I did not fully understand what it meant to walk that out. Now, I cannot imagine not surrendering to Him in full obedience.”
That obedience continues beyond graduation. Mia will remain at Life East, stepping into a dual calling as an Admissions Counselor and as an associate pastor at a local Foursquare church plant.
“When I came to LPU, I thought going to Bible college would be the biggest act of obedience in my life. What I’ve learned is that it’s important to remain surrendered through every circumstance.”
Throughout her time at LPU, Mia encountered many mentors and leaders who invested deeply in her, but one stands out in particular: Linna Martz. “Her class, Foundations of Transformational Ministry, changed my life during my freshman year and I still see the fruit of it in my current ministry! She coached me through the Foursquare licensing process, taught me how to be a team player, and challenged me to be a better leader. I’ve laughed with her, cried with her, and learned so much. She is truly an asset to the LPU family.”
As Mia looks back, one thing she’ll miss most is the access to the university’s “world-class professors”—mentors who welcomed questions, provided insightful feedback, and encouraged her every step of the way. “I can practically guarantee that I’ll be emailing them throughout my time in ministry to ask for more of their wisdom.”
To the next generation of LPU students, Mia offers this advice:
“Take every opportunity to grow deeper in relationship with God. Ask questions, go to events, shake hands with the chapel speaker, and press in! The education that you will get here is going to deeply impact someone that you minister to later in life. So, make the most of it.”
Mia Rinehart leaves LPU East not just with a degree, but with a heart ablaze for the gospel, ready to say “yes” to Jesus—wherever He leads.
