Peter Bockoven, a 2018 graduate of Bethany Lutheran College with a major in History, has followed a path shaped by deep faith, rigorous study, and joyful service to the church. After completing his undergraduate education at Bethany, Peter enrolled at Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary in Mankato, Minnesota, where he completed his seminary training in preparation for the pastoral ministry.
Originally born in Massachusetts and raised in Arizona, Peter attended Luther Preparatory School in Wisconsin for his junior and senior years of high school. His academic path brought him to Bethany, where he not only grew intellectually and spiritually, but also met his future wife, Katie, who was raised near Minneapolis. The couple married in the summer of 2017 and enjoy music, reading, biking, and spending time outdoors.
Peter’s theological studies focused on understanding and proclaiming God’s Word with clarity and conviction. “God is the triune God—the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit,” he explains. “And His will is this: that everyone may have the forgiveness of sins.” His seminary preparation was directed toward serving the church through the public administration of Christ’s Word and Sacraments—bringing people the very gifts of forgiveness and life in Jesus’ name.
He describes his studies as both profound and purposeful:
“There is nothing greater under heaven or in heaven than to study Him who made all things, sustains them, and has reconciled all people to Himself in Christ: God, our Father.”
Looking ahead, Peter has expressed interest in furthering his theological education—potentially pursuing a Master of Sacred Theology—and dreams of translating important theological texts, combining his love for language with his commitment to faithful teaching.
Peter credits Bethany Lutheran College with laying the foundation for his calling. “Bethany is truly, in my mind, one of the most fantastic colleges in the world. I cannot think of many other colleges so grounded in the liberal arts that are at the same time so grounded in the true ‘liberal’ art… God’s Word.” At Bethany, he learned to think freely and critically, always centered on what he calls “the one thing needful.”
Among his most cherished memories are those of singing—whether during daily chapel services, Vespers, Christmas at Bethany, or on choir tour in Germany. A highlight was performing in the quartet during the 2017 production of The Music Man, which he fondly describes as “some of the absolute most fun I have ever had in my whole life.”
To current Bethany students, Peter offers this thoughtful encouragement:
“Strive to understand the kind of education you are receiving. There are fundamental principles driving the whole Bethany experience—those of a truly historic Christian liberal arts curriculum. The more you understand what that curriculum is, the more enriched your life will be—not only as a student, but also for your whole life, and even after.”
Rev. Peter Bockoven’s journey is a testament to the enduring value of a Bethany education—an education grounded in Scripture, shaped by tradition, and lived out in faithful service to God’s people.