My name is Jay Smith. I am getting a tuition-free biblically based education online at the Christian Leaders Institute (Learn more about studying the Bible online, Click Here).
My Background
I’m from a small town called Port McNeill, Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I grew up there with my parents and two siblings. Now, I live in Blenheim, ON, Canada.
How I Came to Know Christ
I was 12 years old and remember asking Jesus into my heart in the middle of my living room with my Pastor. However, I do not remember what made me decide. I guess it just seemed natural and right. Best decision I ever made.
My Journey and My Wife
Heavily involved in my church when I was younger, I practically lived in the youth group. I participated in church plays which turned into major productions for the community. Further, I loved going to church and being on fire for Jesus. However, I grew up in a Pentecostal church where it was all about feelings and the moving of the Spirit through tongues and prophesy. I don’t remember getting much biblical training. Therefore, I lacked discipline and motivation.
After I moved out of my parent’s house at 20 years of age, I drifted and floundered. I did not really belong and got somewhat involved with the world. I dated on and off throughout my twenties and early thirties. However, nothing came of any of the relationships. Then, one day, I finally found my wife Amanda and her then-7-year-old daughter Evah. It was in 2017 at the age of 37. We met online and then married in June 2018. They have been a wonderful blessing to me and I thank God for them every day.
My Focus and Calling
Throughout my entire Christian walk, I always felt a call to some type of ministry. However, I was too focused on wanting to hear a booming voice to tell me what to do or where to go. Therefore, I missed what was right in front of me. I always had a passion for fighting against injustice and sharing and preaching the gospel. I had some opportunities when I was younger to preach, but honestly, I was way too immature, poorly educated biblically, and lacked ministry training as well. Since I married and planted myself in a Bible-teaching church, I’m more grounded and focused on God and obeying His ways. The call to ministry is stronger, and now I need to respond to that call.
A Biblically Based Education at CLI
I am so glad that my wife found CLI. Now, I can pursue a biblically based education at my own pace, free of cost, and on my time. I am looking at chaplaincy and restorative justice. As I pursue these things, I believe God will give me direction for my life and for my ministry. Thank you, CLI team.
Register a Study Account
Register for a free study account that automatically enrolls you in the Getting Started Class at the Christian Leaders Learning Platform. The Getting Started class will take you less than an hour to complete.
When you log in to the Learning Platform, you will notice that the Getting Started Class automatically appears on your dashboard.
The Getting Started Class will orientate you to the Christian Leaders Learning Platform and the Programs offered, including:
- Ministry Awards, Certificates, and Diplomas with the Christian Leaders Institute.
- College Degrees with the CLI’s Leadership Excellence School.
- Minister Credentialling (Ordination) with the Christian Leaders Alliance, including local Soul Center registration possibilities.
Note: You can enroll in tuition-free courses or mini-courses immediately without finishing the getting started class.
Find out more about women in ministry here
