Stanley N. Helton
This is a good word for Stan Helton, Assistant Professor of Bible and Academic Dean at Western Christian College since 2003. Although he has already packed up his office, Stan’s last official day is the end of the month.
I first met Stan in the mid-80′s when we were both students at Preston Road School of Preaching in Dallas (R.I.P.). He was in the class that began six months after me. Returning to Canada in 1985, it was hard to stay in contact with even my own classmates, never mind those such as Stan who were from other classes
In 2003, Stan called me because he was considering moving to Regina, Saskatchewan from Chicago to teach at WCC. We had a chance to visit face-to-face about his plans a short time later at the Pepperdine University Lectureship.
Several years later we had an unplanned meeting when, unbeknown to each other, we were both at Rochester College’s Sermon Seminar (R.I.P.). There, Stan mentioned that WCC might need a Bible prof and asked if I was interested. (Full disclosure: Stan asked the same of several whom he met).
I wasn’t.
Ten months or so later, Darlene and I were planning a vacation that would take us to New Orleans for the wedding of her nephew. I emailed Stan to find out what we should see and do in NOLA and, out of courtesy more than curiosity, asked if he had found a Bible prof. He hadn’t and Stan asked if I was interested.
I was.
Over the course of the next few months application was made, interviews were conducted, and I signed on for the adventure.
One of the things that I have appreciated about Stan is his constant reminder that I am at WCC to teach. His reminder has kept me focused in the midst of a multitude of distractions characteristic of a small college. Yet, Stan has also demonstrated in word and deed the importance of keeping the focus on the student.
Stan, Pat, and Rachel are heading back to the New Orleans area where he will serve as senior minister at the Tammany Oaks Church of Christ.
Blessings my brother.
And thanks for the offer of a place to stay when we come down to visit!
