Returning to the academic world later in life initially was an intimidating process for me, as it is for so many. However, after many years of study I earned my Master of Divinity Degree and a specialized certificate in Pastoral Counseling. During that time I realized that I had great academic promise, creativity, compassion, as well as the ability to encourage, with the commitment and talent to teach and help others develop to their full academic and ministry potential.

During my many years of study and years spent later managing the seminary I graduated from, I always envisioned a school of integrity, equality, peace, beauty and purpose for both men and womem. It would be a place where all those who came to study or participate in the events hosted were challenged by the programs offered, could clearly see the wonderful transformation and healing in the lives of both the students and those they ministered to, and where both women and men were free to grow and enter into the fullness that God desired for them.  While there, each student would experience the gift of Biblical academic growth and development, and they would be encouraged to develop the ministry God had ordained for each one. It would be a place of healing; a home to all.

Embracing women and men in all areas of study and preparing both for the ordained ministry within their church or fellowship makes us somewhat unique.

Lay ministers and chaplains, (ordained and lay,) pastoral counselors, Bible teachers, missionaries, and those in specialized fields of ministry will find a biblically sound theological education is offered in a positive and challenging environment of study for all students who attend classes here.

Renewed Life Seminary opened in Lakewood , Washington , in February of 2003. We located 4000 square feet of office space, and filled it with many of our personal antiques and collectibles. Many friends and members of the community donated computers, furnishings and office equipment. It was place that all could study and all could call home.

On December 2, 2005 , an electrical fire began above the second floor ceiling and we lost almost all of our possessions from the subsequent water, smoke damage, and from the ceiling falling in at several different locations throughout our portion of space. Sadly most of our furnishings, pictures, office equipment and books were destroyed.

However, all of our records were intact, every piece of paper we had to have was dry, and God spared some of the pieces of art or furniture that were especially important to us. He has proved Himself mighty and strong on our behalf.

Out of the ashes of the old, we have seen a new design of God emerge. We have replaced the old with the new, and deep things have come out of the destruction and darkness of the fire. God is faithful and had been preparing my heart and speaking to me about transitions for months before the fire.

We relocated in Lakewood in January of 2006. God has provided for the replacement items, and everything matches beautifully. It too is a place of comfort that we all call “home.”

On Easter Sunday of 2006, we birthed Renewed Life Community Church here in our new location. So now the Church and Seminary are flowing side by side, and we are seeing God perform many miracles in the lives of His people.

In these troublesome times in which we live, come and grow with us, as we prepare ourselves to march in the greatest army ever assembled; the army of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Blessings to you in His Great Name,

Pastor Marie Dudley,

Pastor Marie Dudley, President and Founder