At the beginning of every new fall term, Dr. Sydnor Staley, the first president of Southeastern Theological Seminary at Wake Forest, North Carolina, welcomed the new freshman class with these words: "I wish that we could give each of you a theological diploma today. Then those who desire an education could go about their studies unhindered by those who are spiritually shallow." The student experience in a theological seminary is interesting as well as educational. There are all kinds of people there for a variety of reasons. Most seminaries have a way to screen applicants so that there is some consistency in the purpose of the student body, but many do not last even the full first year. Some are not prepared for the difficult studies. They come expecting instant recognition of their spirit…