Warm greetings from Denver, Colorado!

As we reflect on 2024, we are filled with gratitude and awe at all that God has done through Mountain Theological Seminary (MTS). It has been a year of transformation, growth, and bold new beginnings –milestones that mark the unfolding of a greater vision. Here are just a few highlights from this extraordinary season in our journey:
1. A new name, a renewed mission
This year, we embraced a significant change: our name. What was once the Rocky Mountain School of Ministry and Theology (RMSMT) is now Mountain Theological Seminary (MTS). This new name reflects our identity and calling: to be a training ground where men and women are equipped to rightly handle the Word of God, preach with clarity, teach with conviction, and live exemplary lives of faith and integrity.
2. Honoring the legacy of Dr. Timothy Sumerlin
We also experienced a great loss this year with the passing of our beloved brother and Dean of Christian Counseling, Dr. Timothy Sumerlin. His pioneering work in launching the School of Christian Counseling and his global impact through the Grief Journey and InMotion Counseling programs have touched countless lives. His legacy continues to inspire our mission.
3. A new era for Christian counseling
Rising to carry this torch is Dr. Jennifer Konzen, our new Dean of Christian Counseling. Dr. Konzen has not only stepped into this vital role but has already begun a full revitalization of the Master’s in Christian Counseling, ensuring it becomes one of the most effective and transformative training programs available today.
4. Global graduations, global impact
In September 2024, we celebrated our fourth in-person graduation alongside the ICOC Teachers Church Building Workshop. This summer we saw two individuals graduate at a conference in India, and in the fall, we will hold two more historic graduations: one in Kansas City (English program) and – for the first time ever – one in Mexico City (Spanish program). By the end of this year, we will have graduated 64 students from 17 nations, all trained and ready to serve Christ around the world.
5. Strategic leadership for a global future
To help lead this exciting new chapter, we welcomed Dr. Robert Carrillo as our new Vice President. Dr. Carrillo brings vision, passion, and experience in global ministry. He is spearheading efforts to expand our visibility, grow our student body, build sustainable financial support, and chart a dynamic course for the future.
6. Strengthening our faculty
We are thrilled to introduce Dr. Kareema Gray, our newest faculty member. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise and will teach Cultural Competence in Christian Counseling in our newly revamped M.A. program.
7. Embracing the cohort model
We’ve launched a cohort model for both our English M.A. in Christian Ministry and Spanish M.A. in Biblical Studies. This collaborative approach allows students to grow, learn, and serve side-by-side throughout their journey—building lasting bonds and deep spiritual formation.

8. A brand-new digital home
Visit us at our new website: www.mtsem.org. It’s more than a site; it’s a window into the heartbeat of our mission and a hub for global connection.
9. Celebrating a decade of impact
This year marked our 10th anniversary – a moment to honor our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to the future with renewed faith. We are grateful for the faith and vision of founders Dr. Glenn Giles, and Dr. Steve Kinnard.
10. Launching a global voice
We are launching a global outreach initiative to strengthen and inspire our worldwide fellowship. This includes:
- Our new “Mountain Tops” podcast (launching June 2025)
- A growing YouTube Channel
- Global cohort programs
- And a vibrant online presence designed to connect and equip leaders across continents
Looking ahead: A vision worth building
At MTS, we believe the church is called to be a city on a hill, radiating light to the nations. Our mission is to train, empower, and spiritually form leaders, influencers and counselors around the world so they can build strong, healthy, gospel-centered communities that reflect the light of Jesus. This is more than education. It’s kingdom transformation.
Whether you are a student, church leader, donor, or friend, we invite you to join us in this sacred mission. Let’s raise up the next generation of preachers, teachers, counselors, and church builders together.
Strategic question and answer sessions will be hosted on Zoom. Discover a future of spiritual growth and maturity on one of our following Zoom sessions on June 21st, July 19th, and August 9th at 8:00am (PST). Click here to join: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84255600625 or scan QR code below.
With gratitude and hope,
The MTS Team
