Pastor’s Pen:
American Baptist College – The Holy Hill
In 2012, I arrived on the campus of American Baptist College with a glimmer of hope for my undergraduate journey. A couple of years earlier, I transferred from Lane College to a local university for a few semesters, but I did not give 100% to my matriculation.
So, as I entered the campus with most of my family, at least a week after registration with just a little hope, I remembered my ‘why’. I remembered all that the Spirit of God told me, the promises of all other things added if I simply seek first all of God’s kingdom and righteousness.
My matriculation at American Baptist College was not easy. Within the first year of my attendance, I lost my grandmother, found out I was pregnant with Kathryn, and struggled to find balance between my academic life and my personal life. I was a struggling non-traditional student, but American Baptist College did what no other institution could do: they wrapped their arms around me, refused to let me quit, and consistently reminded me of my God-given brilliance.
Had it not been for the support, love, and education I received at American Baptist College, I don't know the person I would be. It is because of ABC that I learned to be a student, a scholar, a colleague, and a friend. My journey exemplifies how ABC nurtures faith and academic excellence, shaping leaders who serve with purpose. I am all the better as a preacher, theologian, and Christian because of my education from ABC. I am here today, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as the Pastor of Pilgrim Rest because of my connection to ABC.
The College changed my life, and I know it continues to change the lives of preachers and leaders every day. As a church, we have committed to supporting American Baptist College's mission by donating $500 each quarter. We invite you to join us in supporting ABC's vital work, ensuring future generations receive transformative education rooted in faith. Additionally, we continue to support ABC Milwaukee as part of American Baptist College's fundraising efforts.
Paul writes to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a worker who needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth”. I also encourage those who are serious about ministry to continue their education unashamedly and study the Word of God, because a deeper understanding strengthens our faith and enhances our service. In times like these, which in many ways mirror the times of Paul and Timothy, we need to study the truth of God’s word to prevail.
American Baptist College is one of our nation’s many seminaries that offer high-quality biblical and theological education, shining light on the promises and truth of God’s Word to God’s people in the 21st Century.
BIO FOR TONIA YVONNE KEYS, ABC(AMERICAN BAPTIST COLLEGE)
Tonia Yvonne Keys, is the daughter of the late Ms. Eula (Polly) Transou and Rev. James Ivey, Sr. She received her education from the Metro Davidson County School System and is a proud graduate of the Whites Creek Comprehensive High School class of 1988. She attended Branell Business College, Lipscomb University and is now completing her undergraduate degree at American Baptist College.
Tonia gave her life to Christ at the tender age of nine years, on Mother’s Day 1979 at the Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership Pastor Emeritus James Thomas. She has grown up in and is a very active member of the Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church. She currently serves as an Associate Minister, a Youth Advisor, works with the Culinary Committee, a member of the Rachel C. Pennington Mission Department and a former member of the Music Ministry having sung in the Sanctuary Choir and the 8'oclock Ensemble. Not only is she an active member of many auxiliaries, she also serves as the Church Administrator for the past 30 years.
Tonia not only has served in her local Church, but she has also served on the District and State level. She has served as the Secretary of the Congress of Christian Workers of the Nashville City Missionary Baptist District Association for 14 years and sang in the district chorus, was an Advisor to the Nashville City Youth Choir and presently serves as the Executive Administrative Assistant to the Moderator. She served as the Secretary of the Women’s Intermediate Auxiliary of the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Tennessee. She was recently elected to serve as the Secretary for the Interdenominational Ministers Fellowship.
Her love for Church Administration has taken her across the country and across denominational barriers to conduct her workshop “Partnering with the Pastor”. She developed this workshop to help Administrative Staff and Ministry Leaders understand their gift and calling. She is a member of the Zeta Amicae Auxiliary, a member of The WEB Dubois Honor Society, and the National Society of Leadership and Success.
On March 20, 2016, she accepted her calling to preach the word of God and on May 22, 2016, preached her first sermon and was ordained on December 11, 2016. On October 8, 2016, she married the love of her life Rev. Roosevelt Keys, III. She lives by Psalm 46:10, “Be Still and know that I am God”.
