Sweetry Noverlindra
she/her/hers
Master of Arts
What is your favorite memory of your time at LSTC?
I have many enjoyable memories at LSTC. I truly appreciate every activity conducted by LSTC, both academic and non-academic. I also greatly value the closely-knit community at LSTC, especially because we live in the school housing that connects people at LSTC. However, the memory that stands out the most in my life is when Pastor Jepenri, an Indonesian student who graduated last year, and I presented about Christianity in Indonesia during the Global Conversation at LRWC. I was thrilled with this activity, not only because I could share about my home country, but also because friends from various countries thoroughly enjoyed the Indonesian soup, “Soto,” that I cooked that day. It was quite impressive to have not only students but also three of our professors present at the meeting: Dr. Peter Vethanayagamony (online), Dr. Mark Swanson, and Dr. Esther Menn (in person), all of whom seemed excited to enjoy our presentation and, of course, the soto.
What was the most meaningful class you took?
Every class is important to me and provides new insights. Especially when each professor is very helpful in understanding the lectures and gives me the opportunity to engage with students to provide insights from their respective contexts. This enriches my understanding of theology broadly. However, there is one course that may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me to take, which is the “Parliament of World Religions” course offered as a summer course. This was the first world meeting I attended, where I could participate in various interesting seminars from different countries and religions around the world. I will never forget that course.
How did you feel supported during your seminary journey? Were you the recipient of any major scholarships? What communities or people uplifted you during your studies?
I have received a scholarship for tuition and housing rent from the campus. The school has been very supportive of me in completing my studies at LSTC. The generous professors have also been very helpful in assisting me throughout my studies here. Furthermore, strong communities like MSA and ISA, which mutually support one another, have also aided me in completing my studies. In particular, the International Student Association (ISA) has become a home for me, where I never feel alone during celebrations such as Christmas and Thanksgiving, even though I am far from my family in Indonesia. Additionally, I never feel alone when facing challenges as an international student. The motivation, support, and understanding from my peers have greatly helped me learn and grow at LSTC.
What are your post-graduation plans?
When I entered LSTC, I took several courses related to Luther, and I was particularly intrigued by the topics offered by Dr. Candace Kohli, Assistant Professor of Lutheran Systematic Theology and Global Lutheranism. Until then, I had only thought about the Reformation when recalling Luther. However, interesting titles such as “Martin Luther and Modern Society” and “Women Reformers” led me to see a broader perspective, realizing that studying Luther is not solely about the Reformation. This encouraged me to delve deeper into Luther studies at LSTC. On one hand, my church in Indonesia (Huria Kristen Indonesia) also expects pastors to delve into Luther studies. I see this as a good reason and opportunity to further my studies at LSTC; therefore, I plan to pursue my studies in the Th.M (Master of Theology) program with a focus on History and Theology.
How did LSTC shape you as a future leader of the public church?
LSTC is a school that has produced many church leaders worldwide. I believe that, aside from the academic training that will shape my future leadership, the extensive network established at LSTC will be a crucial asset in assisting me as a future church leader.
