McMurry University
04/19/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 04/19/2024 16:33
David Bibeau ’03
From a young age, Bibeau felt a divine calling to the ministry, which was his primary motivation for attending college. This calling led him to McMurry, where he believed he could further nurture his spiritual journey and prepare for his ministry.
"I felt called by Christ to the ministry from a young age. It is the only reason I went to college and is the reason I chose McMurry."
While at McMurry, Bibeau was actively involved in Kappa Delta Sigma, a club designed for aspiring future ministers. Within this community, he forged enduring friendships and benefited from the guidance of Reverend Jim Wingert, who served as the campus chaplain from 1994 until 2003 .
As a religion major, Bibeau explains that his academic pursuits were instrumental in shaping him. The comprehensive liberal arts education he received equipped him with invaluable skills that transcended his academic journey. Courses ranging from religion and philosophy to sociology, political science, and Greek not only made his journey through seminary much easier but also contributed to his development as a more well-rounded person and dedicated priest.
"I went to college to become a Methodist minister," he said. "Through my studies at McMurry, I was introduced to the full spectrum of Christian theology and it changed my course East to the Orthodox Church."
Following Bibeau's undergraduate studies, he converted to the Orthodox Church and pursued theological education at Asbury Seminary. While his wife completed her education, Bibeau worked and concurrently pursued another degree in Orthodox Theology. This extended period of preparation preceded his ordination as a Deacon in 2016, followed by his ordination as a priest in 2018. Soon after, Bibeau was assigned to serve at St. Paul Orthodox Church in Tupelo, Mississippi.
"The best part about being a priest is getting to know and minister to people."
Bibeau finds fulfillment in fostering personal connections with others through coffee outings, serving the Divine Liturgy and other Orthodox services, and teaching Bible studies and catechism classes to impart knowledge and nurture spiritual growth among his community members.
Do you or an alum you know have a great post-McMurry story? We'd love to feature YOU! Contact the Alumni Office at [email protected] to schedule an interview.