Why I'm doing a Doctorate

Welcome to My DMin Journey!

Hi, I’m Nick! I’m blessed to be a husband to Emily, father to two energetic young boys (ages 6 and 3), and pastor of Hills Baptist Church Aldgate. Over the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of serving at Hills Baptist, first as the Young Adults Pastor and, since April 2022, as Campus Pastor.

This blog is a space where I’ll share updates about an exciting new season in my life and ministry: my journey through a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary.

Why a DMin?

I had always considered pursuing further education at some point in my ministry, but I expected to do it later when life felt more settled. However, this unique opportunity arose because my brother is currently studying for his PhD at Gordon Conwell, allowing me to stay with him during my two-week intensives each October.

So, why take this step now? Here are three main reasons:

1. Investing in My Ministry
   I take my calling as a pastor seriously and want to continue growing as I lead the community at Hills Baptist Church Aldgate. The DMin program focuses on three key areas—Leadership, Preaching, and Counseling—that align with the gifts and passions I believe God has given me.

2. A Passion for Learning
   I love learning, growing, reading, and challenging my thinking. Throughout my ministry journey, I’ve been committed to ongoing education, whether completing my MDiv or the Baptist accreditation program. This DMin will challenge me to refine my theology and ministry practice alongside pastors from around the world.

3. Equipping Future Leaders
   One of my greatest joys is teaching and training others. I’m passionate about equipping leaders to serve in ministry and wonder if God might use this program to open doors for me to train and mentor future pastors. I also see a gap in practical ministry training in our region and feel called to be part of filling that need.

Stepping Out in Faith

As a family, we’ve stepped out in faith to undertake this next adventure, trusting God to provide along the way. The total cost, including tuition, travel, and resources, is significant—around $16,000 AUD per year for tuition alone.

If you’d like to partner with us financially, we’d deeply appreciate your support. Please email me at nick.vanruth@hillsbaptist.com or contact me directly.

More than anything, we value your prayers. Here’s how you can pray for me over the next few years:

• Spiritual Growth: That God would form me more into the image of Christ through my study.
• Balance: That I would balance study, ministry, and family well.
• Kingdom Impact: That what I learn would have a lasting impact for God’s Kingdom in Adelaide and beyond.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for walking this journey with us. I look forward to sharing what God is doing along the way!

In Christ,
Nick