Executive Director, Ryan Habbena

He has been with Village Schools of the Bible for 14 years. Ryan has 25 years of pastoral and ministry experience in oversight, preaching, and teaching. He holds a B.A. in Biblical and Theological studies from Bethel University, and an M.A. in Theological studies from Bethel Seminary. Ryan lives just outside of St. Paul, MN, with his wife of 29 years, Jenny. They have four children: Bethany (24), Samuel (21), Elizabeth (15), and Luke (11).

In His Own Words… Ryan Shares His Vision

It is with a sense of great responsibility that I step into the role of Executive Director for Village Schools of the Bible. The mission of Village Schools is rooted in the Great Commission to “go make disciples of all nations.” Thus, the One truly leading Village Schools in this mission is Jesus Himself, and he promised to be “with us to the end of the age.”

It’s a weighty mission indeed. This weight of responsibility also extends from the founder of Village Schools of the Bible, Monty Sholund, and from each of the Executive Directors since. Their legacy and work for the mission of Village Schools of the Bible is something I intend to honor, sustain, and build upon.

I feel too a great responsibility to the Village Schools of the Bible community that is based here in Minnesota, and also extends throughout the world.

· The heart of Village Schools of the Bible is the Cover to Cover Bible study, which will continue to be the central, promoted offering of this ministry. Having taught Cover to Cover for fourteen years I have seen its power to transform lives. This course is so unique and effective in discipleship and we look to ensure its presence will continue to be taught in-person, online, and overseas.

· We will be continuing our initiatives in Africa and other countries with Dr. Titus (Tito) Wanyonyi and Warwick Alcock overseeing the ministries and teaching.

A new frontier for Village Schools of the Bible that we are developing is video production and online resources.

Some of the projects on the docket are:

· A produced 32 week Cover to Cover video class (with maps, timelines, and other media) that is readily available for anyone who wishes to take it.

· New shorter (4-6 week) supplemental video courses that focus on specific eras of the Biblical narrative (ex. From David to the Exile, or The Journeys of Acts, etc.).

· A Village School of the Bible “app” where people can access teaching and resources on their phones and other devices.

An exciting part of the video production initiative of Cover to Cover is outreach to the younger generations. We see this as integral to our mission of reaching Gen Z and Millennials, both inside and outside the church. Data tells us that Bible purchases are up 20%. Let’s help people open the Scriptures and see God’s amazing plan of redemption!

We recognize too that online ministry can be difficult, as it runs the risk of neglecting fellowship. One of the initiatives we seek to implement is cultivating small groups and a Village School network that would unite people in their study and discussion of video classes and other online resources.

At this inception of a new season at Village Schools of the Bible, I would like to thank our partners, donors, past Executive Directors, and worldwide community.

Please pray for us that the Lord would be honored and His mission would go forth in truth, grace, and power.