As Life Pacific University reflects on the past year, we celebrate a meaningful milestone from 2025. Six LPU alumni received Foursquare ordination in districts across the country, marking an important moment in their ministry journeys and in the life of the university.
This achievement reflects years of academic study, hands-on ministry experience, and faithful obedience to God’s call. These newly ordained ministers began their formation as students at LPU, where they were equipped for lives of service and leadership within the Church.
The six alumni ordained in 2025 are Meagan Lord (’21), Rose Cantrell (’22), Carlos Ortiz (’22), Ilyssa Shields (’22), Marissa Ryerson (’24), and Anais (’22). Each completed the Foursquare Culture and Doctrine course during their undergraduate studies, earned ministry licensing through The Foursquare Church, and served in local church ministry for a minimum of two years, a key season of formation required for ordination.
Their ordination stands as a testament to perseverance, calling, and a deep commitment to serving the body of Christ.
A Testament to LPU Formation and the Foursquare Calling
Life Pacific University remains deeply committed to preparing leaders for the Church. These six alumni reflect the fruit of LPU’s holistic approach to formation, where academic excellence, ministry training, and spiritual development work together to prepare graduates for lives of lasting impact.
Through years of faithful service in their congregations, they embody the heart of Foursquare ministry and its mission to make Jesus known as Savior, Baptizer, Healer, and Soon-Coming King.
Honoring Our Newly Ordained Alumni
Each of these pastors continues to serve faithfully in their ministry context, impacting communities across the United States and beyond.
Meagan Lord (’21) serves as Program Coordinator for the McPherson Preaching Institute at Life Pacific University and a NextGen Mobilizer in the Foursquare Western District. Reflecting on her journey, she shared:
“LPU was instrumental in shaping my understanding of my calling, my ministry, and my heart for the Foursquare Church and the whole body of Christ. I have been incredibly blessed by leaders like Dr. Tim Lee, Dr. Aimee Selby, Dr. Steven Félix-Jäger, and Pastor Jen Lord, who believed in me and challenged me as both a student and a coworker. I am deeply thankful for the doors LPU opened for me and for the way Foursquare has embraced me as a young leader with a deep-seated calling to ministry. It is the honor of my life to carry the responsibility of Foursquare ordination as I walk a path paved by faithful leaders who have gone before me.”
Ilyssa Shields (’22) serves as Youth Pastor at Church of Living Water in Olympia, Washington, where she leads and disciples the next generation.
Marissa Ryerson (’24) ministers as Children’s Pastor at Grace Community Church in Fort Worth, Texas, shepherding children and families with compassion and creativity.
Carlos Ortiz (’22) serves as Assisting Pastor at Renew Life Church in Lancaster, California, supporting pastoral leadership and local ministry initiatives.
Anais (’22) previously served as Communications Pastor at Yakima Foursquare Church in Yakima, Washington. She now partners with Foursquare Missions International, serving in countries including Mexico, Turkey, and Belize.
Rose Cantrell (’22) serves as Children’s Pastor at New Life Church in Santa Barbara, California, helping cultivate spiritually vibrant environments for young believers.
A Growing Legacy of Kingdom Leaders
These six alumni continue a long-standing legacy of Life Pacific University graduates serving faithfully within the Foursquare family. Their ordination not only honors their individual journeys but also reflects LPU’s mission to equip students for lives of service and ministry leadership.
Their stories encourage current and future students who sense a call to pastoral ministry, reminding them that faithful preparation and obedience lead to lasting impact.
A Celebration for the Entire LPU Community
Life Pacific University celebrates with deep gratitude and pride the ordination of Meagan, Rose, Carlos, Ilyssa, Marissa, and Anais. Their ministries reflect the heart of Christ, the values of Foursquare, and the enduring impact of a Life Pacific University education.
Congratulations, pastors. Your LPU family celebrates you and looks forward to all that God will continue to do through your leadership, service, and faithfulness.
