to read a PDF file version of the Bicentennial Case for Support.

200 YEARS IN 2010
Study under pastors.
From Strength to Strength
Bicentennial Campaign
REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

From Strength...
...to Strength

From Strength...
The ministry of the Word and Sacrament is a high and holy
calling of Christ. It is a physically, spiritually, and intellectually
demanding calling.
At RPTS, you will find gifted men who will initiate your lifelong
study of God’s inerrant Word.
Your teachers were pastors. Currently, they serve local congregations
in leadership positions. They know from experience the
joys, and, yes, the sorrows of ministry.
You will need that wealth of experience and encouragement in
your preparation for the ministry.
– Rev. Jerry Dodds, Pastor
Covenant Orthodox Presbyterian Church
Grove City, Pennsylvania
46
Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A Message from the President ..........................................................................6
History ............................................................................................................8
Mission Statement ...........................................................................................9
Stories of God Working Through RPTS................................................... 10-15
A Family of RPTS Pastors ...................................................................................... 10
Titus Martin: Man on a Mission ............................................................................ 11
Deep Questions Answered at RPTS ....................................................................... 12
In the Heart of the City, With a Heart for the City ............................................... 13
Transforming Lives with the Gospel....................................................................... 14
Going Out Today .................................................................................................. 15
For Such a Time as This: Six Key Areas to Strengthen ....................................16
Bicentennial Campaign Goal .........................................................................18
Ways You Can Give ................................................................................. 18-19
Mel Rutherford: God’s Humble Giver ...........................................................20
To Make Your Gift or Pledge .........................................................................21
Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary
7418 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15208-2594 • 412-731-8690 • www.rpts.edu
Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary 57

From Strength...
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Any reading of our history will demonstrate
that we have not survived
because we were strong in ourselves,
but in a very real sense, we have
survived in spite of our weakness.
The theme for this campaign, From
Strength to Strength, powerfully reminds
us that in the Kingdom of God,
weakness and strength run on parallel rails of the same
track: It is when we are weak that God, in His marvelous
grace, gives us His strength.
In 2 Corinthians 12:9, our Lord tells the Apostle
Paul during a time of intense suffering, “My grace is
sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in
weakness.” As Paul understood the reality of this paradox,
he came to the conclusion that he could rejoice
in times of infirmity and great need because, in his
own words, “When I am weak, then I am strong.”
The last several verses of Psalm 84 have inspired
our campaign theme. In verse seven of this remarkable
Psalm, we find the phrase “from strength to
strength.” Verse five reminds us that this strength, for
Christians, is not in ourselves, but it is strength that
comes from the living God—strength (as verse 11
intimates) that is a result of God’s grace in our lives.
As we at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological
Seminary look back on the last 200 years that our Lord has given us, we are overwhelmed with His
grace shown so clearly. Any reading of our history will demonstrate that we have not survived
because we were strong in ourselves, but in a very real
sense, we have survived in spite of our weakness. Perhaps
we could even say that we have survived, while
remaining faithful to the historic Reformed faith on
which we were founded, because of our weakness.
Truly, in our weakness, we have had to wait on the
Lord. And the prophet Isaiah reminds us that “those
who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.”
We do not take lightly the significance of celebrating our 200 th anniversary while still
embracing wholeheartedly the historic Christian faith. I clearly remember hearing the late
John Gerstner say at one of our meetings of Synod several years ago that no other seminary had
ever “made it” for 150 years while still proclaiming the great truths of the Reformation: salvation
by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, for the glory of God alone, as revealed
in the Scriptures alone.
86 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
As we celebrate the last 200 years of
God’s grace to the Seminary, we also turn
our attention to the future. And as we look RPTS BICENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN
ahead, our prayer is that the Lord will continue
to keep us faithful. Verse 11 of Psalm
THEME SCRIPTURE
84 calls us to live with integrity, to live uprightly,
to live blamelessly. We have no in-
whose strength is in You....
Blessed are those
terest in surviving another 200 years, or even
They go
another year, if we are not faithful to the
from strength to strength
Lord, to His Word, and to the mission He till each appears before God in Zion....
has given us. But as we are faithful to God,
Look upon our shield, O God;
then we have every confidence that we will
look with favor
continue to be recipients of God’s grace, advancing
“from strength to strength.”
on Your anointed one....
This 200 th Anniversary campaign is designed
to strengthen six key areas of life at the Lord bestows favor and honor;
For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
the Reformed Presbyterian Theological no good thing does He withhold
Seminary: Academics, Operations, Scholarships,
Facilities, Youth, and Infrastruc-
from those whose walk is blameless.
O Lord Almighty,
ture (see pp. 16-17 for details).
blessed is the man who trusts in You.
As you read through this booklet, which
–Psalm 84:5-12
spells out the details of our campaign, I hope
that you will be stirred to action. First of all,
pray. Pray for the Lord to bless the Seminary
with even greater faithfulness in the next generation, and pray for the Lord to lead you to know how
He would have you respond. Secondly, as the Lord leads, give as He has prospered you.
I realize that there are many good places to invest your money and resources today. But let me
We have no interest in
surviving another 200 years, or
even another year, if we are not
faithful to the Lord, to His Word,
and to the mission He has given us.
challenge you to consider the unique dividends that accrue if you invest for eternity at the Reformed
Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
If you desire to see the world transformed
by the gospel of Jesus Christ, is there a more
vital place to invest than this historic Seminary
that God has faithfully used for 200 years to
train men and women for Christian ministries
in the United States and throughout the world?
In some ways, a seminary is not a frontline ministry filled with dramatic stories of warfare.
But every soldier needs boot camp to be fit for deployment, and every pastor and church
leader needs sound preparation before stepping out into ministry.
My prayer is that God will use you to strengthen the training for ministry going on today
and into the future at RPTS until Christ returns. Thank you!
–Dr. Jerry O’Neill
Bicentennial Bicentennial Campaign Campaign 2005-2010 2005-2010 Reformed Reformed Presbyterian Presbyterian Theological Theological Seminary Seminary 7 9

From Strength...
“The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.”
–Psalm 29:11
TWO CENTURIES OF SERVICE
Samuel B. Wylie, the first RPTS professor,
1810-1817, 1823-1828
As we surpass 200 years of faithful service in preparing God’s leaders, it is our joy to share
a brief history with you.
Soon after the organization in 1798 of what is now called the Reformed Presbyterian
Church of North America (in Philadelphia, PA), steps were taken to establish a seminary for
the education of its students of theology. Classes commenced in 1810, making RPTS the fifth
oldest seminary in the nation today. It has been faithfully training pastors ever since. Through
God’s strength, the Seminary’s denominational background upholds the historic Reformed
faith, while stressing Christ’s Kingship over every area of life.
Over the first 46 years, RPTS shifted to at least five different locations as its professors
moved to pastor churches. In 1856, the seminary relocated to the North Side of Pittsburgh,
and then settled in a brick mansion on Pittsburgh’s East End in 1924, where it continues to be
a haven for students of God’s Holy Word.
The founding purpose of RPTS was to train pastors for the gospel
ministry within the sponsoring RPCNA denomination; this primary
purpose remains, but God has expanded the Seminary’s mission to
train men and women from other Reformed and evangelical churches
from various cultures, nations, and denominations for diverse kingdom
ministries, such as missions, Christian education, youth and campus
work, military chaplains, and other specialized service. Today, RPTS
has the highest percentage of African American students of any Reformed
seminary, and it draws people from all over the world, including
Korea, Uganda, Hungary, Romania, Nigeria, Australia, Japan, Ireland,
and Kenya.
Fully accredited, RPTS now grants degrees
in Master of Divinity and Master of Theological
Studies; it also offers programs for a Diploma in Theology, and certificates
for Training in Ministry, Missionary Training, and Servant of the Church.
Preparing ministers of the gospel, RPTS emphasizes scholarship in Biblical
studies, systematic theology, and church history; the cultivation of personal
godliness and interpersonal skills; and the development of spiritual
gifts—all with a vision for discipling the nations of the world for Christ. Its
classic Reformed theological education engages students in mind and heart
with the Scriptures and with the society in which they live.
James Milligan,
first RPTS graduate
Equipped and strengthened in the faith, RPTS graduates serve the church of Jesus
Christ in 30 states in the U.S., and in 15 other countries as pastors, chaplains, church
planters, missionaries, evangelists, and seminary and college professors. They go out to
feed the sheep in churches and communities like yours.
10 8 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
“And we pray...that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way; bearing fruit in every good work,
growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might.” –Colossians 1:10-11
A MISSION TO ADVANCE THE KINGDOM
By the Lord’s strength, the mission of the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary
continues:
To educate students who love the Lord Jesus
Christ and His Word, equipping pastors for
the ministry of the gospel, and preparing
others in the church for effective service in
His Kingdom, all within the framework of
the historic Reformed faith.
We need your help to strengthen our work by contributing to the 200th Anniversary
Campaign. Read on to explore how you can be part of what God is doing here in the lives of
students and the people they serve.
Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary 911

From Strength...
“Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always.”
–1 Chronicles 16:11
A FAMILY OF RPTS PASTORS
SPANNING FOUR GENERATIONS
Titus Martin received his Master of Divinity degree in 2005, the beginning of the
Seminary’s bicentennial campaign. It wasn’t part of his plan—he was sure he would
become a school teacher after graduating from Geneva College. But perhaps it’s in his
blood, as he follows generations of RPTS alumni on both sides of his family who answered a
call to ministry:
Delber Harvey Elliott, born 1878, is Titus’ great grandfather on
his mother Esther’s side. He attended RPTS from 1901 to 1904, was
ordained in the Kansas Presbytery in 1903, and pastored churches in
Kansas, Pittsburgh, and Mars, Pennsylvania. He directed the First
National Covenanter Young People’s Union Conference in Winona
Lake, Indiana, in 1926, and he taught part-time at RPTS in the late
’40s.
Rev. Elliott also published writings, such as Gospel According to
Revelation, Trail of the Totalitarian, Doom of the Dictators, and Cash
and Character. He was the father of Delber Howard Elliott.
D. Howard Elliott, Titus’ grandfather
on his mother’s side, was born in Winchester,
Kansas, in 1915. A 1940 RPTS graduate,
Howard (as he was called) went on to pastor churches in Beaver
Falls, Pennsylvania, and Topeka, Kansas. He often served as the Young
People’s Secretary for the presbytery wherever he pastored, and he
was chaplain for the Topeka police.
Howard was active in the broader church, serving on the Executive
Committee of the Christian Amendment Movement (an attempt
to recognize the Lord Jesus Christ in the U.S. Constitution) and as a
Washington lobbyist in the late ’50s, during which
he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Geneva College, his
alma mater. He also was editor of The Christian Statesman in the mid ’80s.
Paul Machen Martin, born in 1944, is Titus’ father. He, too, attended
RPTS in the late ’60s. Ordained in the Pittsburgh Presbytery in 1970, he
has gone on to pastor churches in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Phoenix,
Arizona.
Paul also has taught Biblical and Systematic Theology at Redeemer Theological
Seminary in Mesa, Arizona, and has coached youth in various sports.
12 10 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
“The Lord is my strength and my song; and He has become my salvation. He is my
God, and I will praise Him, my father’s God and I will exalt Him.” –Exodus 15:2
TITUS MARTIN:
MAN ON A MISSION
Following in the footsteps of his great-grandfather,
grandfather, uncles Bruce Martin (’73
grad) and Ron Stegall (’75 grad), and his father,
Phoenix, Arizona, native Titus Martin was led
to theological training at RPTS. He had no ambition
to be a pastor—he just wanted to learn more.
But after serving for a year in urban missions after college, he realized that, while grounded in
his faith, he hadn’t taken the time to think through his beliefs and articulate them confidently.
Now an RPTS grad at age 26, he’s sharing his faith around the world.
In July 2005, using a round-the-world ticket, Titus embarked on a more than seven-month
missionary trek through as many countries across the globe: Cyprus, France, Ireland, Northern
Uganda, Australia, Japan, and a another, closed country.
Leading two other young men on his self-designed missionary tour, he is serving evangelical
churches in these countries through preaching, teaching youth, and evangelism. And he’s shadowing
the mission pastors to learn if he has what it takes to plant and pastor a church outside of the U.S.
“The whole purpose of this trip is to explore whether God is calling me into the pastorate or
the mission field,” said Martin. “The best way to figure out if I can cut it in ministry without the
luxuries of America is to immerse myself in missions. I want to see the struggles, problems, and
difficulties mission churches have, as well as their joys, victories, and encouraging experiences.”
If he feels led to foreign missions upon his return, Titus plans first to seek an associate
pastorate in America to gain more experience teaching and leading a church. Then, he’ll seek
out God’s call for planting and building a church abroad. He would not be the first Martin to
do mission work. His other grandfather, Phillip Martin (also an ordained pastor in the RPCNA),
served as a missionary in Manchuria (northeast China) from 1937 to 1940.
Not all of us are called to leave our homes
to bring the gospel to foreign nations. But we
all are called to help advance the gospel to the
uttermost parts of the earth. Whether it is for
training pastors of churches in the United
States, or equipping missionaries to disciple the
nations in other lands, know that your financial
support of RPTS is being used by God to
spread His Kingdom through people like Titus
Martin in the faith of his fathers.
Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary 113

From Strength...
“I love You, O LORD, my strength.”
–Psalm 18:1
DEEP QUESTIONS ANSWERED AT RPTS
Thirty years after falling away from the church, Eugene
Robinson was looking for answers. He first went
to a local Bible school, but continued to be restless.
“I needed deeper teaching,” said Robinson. “Some of
my questions still weren’t answered.”
God ordained for Pastor Robinson to ask his questions
at RPTS. While on his way back from visiting another seminary
in town, heavy traffic that day stopped his car in front
Eugene
of the RPTS Penn Avenue entrance. Now an alumnus (1991),
Robinson
he got his answers from RPTS professors he says taught sincerely,
and lived the life they taught. He is now Executive Pastor at Union Baptist Church in
Swissvale, PA, where he serves with two other men who graduated from RPTS.
“Our training at the Seminary helped with exegetical thinking, and expository preaching
and teaching,” said Senior Pastor Maurice Doss, who graduated with Pastor Robinson. “Working
through the original languages, especially the graphic quality of Hebrew, makes the Bible
move from black and white to color.”
Pastor Doss says he appreciated the relationships developed with RPTS professors, who
were interested not only in academics, but also in his church work beyond seminary walls.
“I still draw on my professors every blessed day at church,” said Andrews Amoh, a 1989
RPTS grad now overseeing Sunday School and vacation Bible school, and equipping church
teachers as Minister of Education for Union Baptist Church.
RPTS President Dr. Jerry O’Neill fondly recalls how Pastor Amoh began a Sunday School
class he attended by reviewing (professor emeritus) Dr. Copeland’s definition of a covenant: “I
was greatly blessed to hear the teacher in this urban Baptist church explaining covenant theology
to his class, just in the way that he had learned it from a man who knows more about
covenant theology than most of us will ever hope to know,” said O’Neill.
Pastor Amoh, who said the Reformed teaching and
personal mentoring from RPTS professors answered
all his questions and drew him out of a cult, has now
helped answer spiritual and Biblical questions of his
church members, and of his students as lead teacher at
the Center for Urban Biblical Ministry housed at RPTS.
“I wouldn’t trade my seminary training at RPTS
for anything,” he said.
You can help us provide deep, life-changing Biblical
truths to churches by contributing to the training
of their
Pastors Doss, Robinson and Amoh
pastors.
14 12 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
“Be exalted, O LORD, in Your strength; we will sing and praise
Your might.” –Psalm 21:13
IN THE HEART OF THE CITY,
WITH A HEART FOR THE CITY
With our urban setting on the East
End of Pittsburgh, and our commitment
to those who seek theological
education, it was natural for RPTS to
have a seminal role in the development of the
Center for Urban Biblical Ministry (CUBM),
an undergraduate institution mostly for minorities
that uses the seminary’s classrooms,
library, and offices.
CUBM was developed for men and
women applying to the Seminary who did
not have the educational background required
for graduate work. Rather than
simply turn them away, the Seminary participated
in developing an institution to
help get them ready.
Approximately 60 students are currently
enrolled in this program, which offers an
CUBM was developed for men and
women applying to the Seminary
who did not have the educational
background required ... Rather than
simply turn them away, the Seminary
participated in developing an
institution to help get them ready.
associate’s degree
for minority and urban students through Geneva College.
RPTS also provides the setting for a Geneva College
bachelor’s degree in Community Ministry for those who have
an associate’s degree or equivalent. Thus, students who need
to can get an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree, and a
master’s degree all on the RPTS campus.
Because pastors and other church leaders are the esteemed
leaders to whom many in our urban setting turn for hope and
direction in the face of moral and spiritual crises, we believe
that preparing church leaders for seminary training is a tremendously
vital component of the overall development and
renewal of Pittsburgh. Your support will help!
Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary 13 15

From Strength...
“The LORD will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” –Isaiah 58:11
TRANSFORMING LIVES WITH THE GOSPEL
Pastor Greg Smith’s mother would cry
herself to sleep every night. At age 21
(in 1954), when Greg was an infant,
Marion Smith struggled as a hardworking
woman running her own small business and
raising her son on her own. Due to a life of
hardships, she felt bitter, distraught, and alone.
But that all changed when God brought an
RPTS student into her life that year.
Each night, Marion’s mournful weeping
reached the ears of a young couple who
lived in the apartment above her on East
End Avenue. Concerned, the wife first
reached out to Marion, and asked her to talk with her husband, a student of the gospel at
nearby RPTS. The husband gave Marion a paper he wrote for class explaining salvation, and as
she pored over its pages, the Holy Spirit led her to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ for eternal
life. She immediately joined in fellowship with the Seminary Wives’ Bible study.
“She was instantaneously changed,” said Pastor Smith. “My mom became a joyful person
overnight.”
The Lord also was faithful to bring Pastor Smith to salvation under Marion’s parenting.
Today, he ministers the gospel as Associate Pastor of Children’s Ministries for the First Evangelical
Free Church of McKeesport (on the east side of Pittsburgh). And at age 72, his mother
is a faithful church member.
Things came full circle when Pastor Smith was led
to RPTS in 1999 to gain further training for his children’s
ministry. President Emeritus Dr. Bruce Stewart was
teaching a class on ministering to children. Because he
enjoyed it so much, Pastor Smith continued through
2003 taking courses in church administration, preaching,
and apologetics, the latter for which he prepared a
“manual” on how to evangelize children.
“You always want to sharpen your ministry skills,”
said Pastor Smith. “RPTS was a wonderful place for me
to do that. I encourage you to invest in the Seminary,
because when you do, you invest in the mission of Christ
by training pastors and missionaries who go out to win
over the lost and disciple them for the Kingdom.”
16 14 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
“Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.”
–Ephesians 6:10
GOING OUT TODAY
You not only invest in the future
ministry of RPTS students,
but you also send them to
evangelize during their training.
Seminary students continue to be used
to labor a harvest for Christ. In fact,
RPTS President Jerry O’Neill teaches
the required course on evangelism, which includes
leading students on door-to-door evangelism
in the neighborhoods of their churches
or RPCNA church plants. The seminarians also lead 5-week investigative Bible studies with a
neighbor, friend, or door-to-door contact who is not a believer or does not have a grounded
understanding of Scripture.
The Lord has brought forth fruit from these efforts over the years, and particularly recently.
It seems the fields are ripe for the harvest: three people who were approached by students
in 2005 prayed to receive Christ, and at least ten people expressed interest in being part
of a Bible study. One woman who was quite moved by the visit embraced a student in tears,
acknowledging a life of unrepentant sin that did not follow her mother’s Christian example.
You not only invest in the future ministry of RPTS students, but you also send them to
evangelize during their training, which God is using to touch people’s lives as they go out in
faith with the gospel.
Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary 15 17

From Strength...
FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS
“The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation.”
–Psalm 118:14
Perhaps you are reading this booklet right now because God wants to use you, along with other
RPTS friends, to contribute to an unprecedented time of growth for the Seminary.
You can significantly strengthen all we’re doing to develop strong pastors who edify people in
churches like yours, and reach the lost in communities like yours with the gospel. You can build up this
instructional haven for church leaders who will serve Christ’s Kingdom. You can help us do more.
As we surpass 200 years of ministry training, we are looking for your help to:
STRENGTHEN ACADEMICS – $1.5 MILLION
New Th.M. Degree to fill a need for a new generation of pastors
and scholars to take a major step toward working on their doctorate.
Endowed Chairs to help the Seminary bolster professorships and
theological departments by establishing a permanent fund for support
so other monies may be used for other needs; they may be
named in honor of someone.
STRENGTHEN SCHOLARSHIPS – $1 MILLION
Financial Aid through endowed scholarships to help students have the time and resources to devote
to study. Scholarships can be named in honor of a professor, alumnus, denomination, church,
family member, or friend. More scholarships increase student enrollment, while strengthening the
Seminary’s finances and impact.
MUSt Scholarship (Minority and Urban Student) program to
develop more financial aid for minority students. The seminary is
held in high regard by Pittsburgh’s African-American community—
in fact, RPTS has the highest percentage of African-American students
among Reformed seminaries. We know that if more financial
aid were available, more minority students would enroll, and those
currently here would take more classes. Endowed MUSt scholarships
will do this.
STRENGTHEN OPERATIONS – $2.4 MILLION
It takes a great deal of resources to provide professional and efficient service. Operational costs include:
Instruction: Salary and benefits for full-time professors and adjunct faculty.
Academic Support: Library staff, books, catalogues, binding, computer center, and faculty development.
Student Services: Non-endowed scholarships, registrar, activities, international student support,
and support for student wives.
Institutional Support: President and administration, brochures, website, and general advancement.
Communications: Increase advertising and public relations to develop greater awareness and under-
18 16 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
–Philippians 4:13
standing of the seminary, and increase interest, financial support, partnerships, and student enrollment
through expanded radio exposure, a bi-annual magazine, media and church relations, and networking.
Campus Maintenance: Upkeep of the more-than-a-century-old seminary mansion, improved
student housing, furnishings and equipment, insurance, and utilities.
STRENGTHEN YOUTH – $300,000
So that local RPCNA sessions would foster their young people
in considering a seminary education, the Theological Foundations
for Youth summer program was begun through a Lilly Endowment
grant. It was designed to see RP youth connect with and be encouraged
by their church leaders through service, join like-minded peers
in exploring a desire to gain further insights into God’s Word through
seminary training, and become an active member in Christ’s Church.
More than 20 young people from across the country now come to Pittsburgh each year to participate
in the seminary program, and recently, this long-term effort has begun to produce the next generation
of RPTS students. RPTS needs to raise endowed funds to keep this vital, growing program going to see
our youth impacted by early theological training.
STRENGTHEN INFRASTRUCTURE – $200,000
There are an amazing number of resources that go into the day-to-day operations of RPTS. These
resources need to be expanded constantly to meet the needs of higher education in a modern world.
Funds are necessary to make investments in new computer technology,
equipment, library upgrades, and furnishings to meet the needs
of our growing faculty, staff, and student body.
STRENGTHEN FACILITIES – $1 MILLION
The RPTS mansion is a gorgeous building with an interesting
history. If you haven’t visited, call to set up a tour. Erected over a
century ago, the building’s ornate grandeur makes for an inspiring
place to study; but it also requires many renovations to keep up with modern needs. The major requests
for renovations include:
Elevator to provide people with disabilities access to all four floors of the Seminary, including the
downstairs dining hall, library sections and classrooms on the second floor, professors’ offices on
several levels, and student dorms on the third floor.
Windows that are double-paned and more efficient to better regulate heating and cooling for
people’s comfort and tremendous savings on utilities.
Pointing and re-mortaring of the outer brick walls, necessary to keep up the building.
Basement renovations, such as drywall, carpet, and drainage, to beautify and improve what includes
the student lounge and dining area.
Duplex purchase to increase nearby married student housing.
Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary 19 17

From Strength...
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him,
and I am helped.” –Psalm 28:7
BICENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN GOAL
$1,500,000 Strengthen Academics
$2,400,000 Strengthen Operations
$1,000,000 Strengthen Scholarships
$1,000,000 Strengthen Facilities
$300,000 Strengthen Youth
$200,000 Strengthen Infrastructure
$6,400,000 Total campaign to strengthen
today’s and tomorrow’s
ministers at RPTS
WAYS YOU CAN GIVE
When you give to RPTS, you invest in the future pastors and ministers of the gospel who go
out to disciple churches like yours, from strength to strength. There are many ways to
support the Seminary during this campaign. Here are various opportunities to consider:
GIFTS OF CASH
Subject to certain limitations, your cash gifts are fully deductible in the tax year given.
Pledges
To spread a major donation over time, you may designate a pledge and make gifts over a period of
up to six years during the bicentennial campaign.
Memorial Gifts
A wonderful way to give is by recognizing someone
living, or memorializing someone who has passed away,
by honoring a parent, child, sibling, friend, or favorite
professor through a named scholarship, commencement
prize, or endowment. You may also honor someone by
naming one of the classrooms or library levels.
Workplace
Your employer may have a matching gift program
that can multiply your gift to RPTS, even if you are a
retiree. Please explore how to increase your support by
20 18 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
“May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement
and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.” –2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
talking with your company’s human resources department. For your convenience, the Seminary also
offers Electronic Funds Transfers to assist automatic gift payments—this is especially helpful for a
monthly gift pledge.
GIFTS OF SECURITIES, REAL ESTATE, OR PERSONAL PROPERTY
Gifts of appreciated securities or real and personal property offer great tax advantages for you, while
providing valuable support for RPTS. These kinds of gifts are normally charitable contributions valued
at the fair market value of the donated asset; they also avoid capital gains. For stock donations, your tax
write-off is for the entire value of the stock at the time you make the gift, which is normally higher than
your initial investment.
BEQUESTS
When you give through a will or living trust,
you can do so through specific sums, or for a specific
percentage of your estate; your estate will receive
a charitable deduction for the value of the
property you pass on to RPTS. In addition, when
you receive a bequest, consider tithing it to RPTS.
GIFTS OF LIFE INSURANCE
Ownership of your life insurance policy can be transferred to RPTS, yielding you donor tax benefits.
Any subsequent premium you pay on the gifted policy may also qualify as a charitable deduction.
CHARITABLE REMAINDER TRUSTS
Charitable remainder trusts provide you current income as the donor (or income for your beneficiaries)
and allow RPTS to benefit from the remainder interest at a specified time in the future. Your tax
benefits depend on the payout provisions over the life of the trust.
CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY
A contract in which RPTS, as the benefiting charitable organization, would agree to pay you back
a percentage of your gift annually for your lifetime. It provides you with an immediate income tax
deduction for part of your gift’s value, with capital gains spread out over your life expectancy.
Planned giving allows you flexibility and tax advantages when you contribute to RPTS. Planned
gifts can be tailored to meet your needs and those of your family, while at the same time providing
for the current and future needs of the Seminary. Our development staff will be glad to discuss the
planned giving options with you, or you can consult with your attorney or estate planner. We would be
happy to refer you to a qualified specialist who can advise you on how to maximize tax benefits on your
estate planning by including charitable gifts to RPTS.
Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary 21 19

From Strength...
MEL RUTHERFORD:
“If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that
in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” –1 Peter 4:11
GOD’S HUMBLE GIVER, 1913–2004
Mel Rutherford was a successful Ohio
farmer. But he often reflected on his
humble beginnings. Because he was
one of the poorest kids in school growing up, he
couldn’t imagine his life would have much influence.
However, behind the scenes, he would, in fact, make
a very important impact on worldwide ministry.
“Mel used to tell me how amazed he was that
God blessed him with the gift of abundant giving to
grow ministries,” said President Jerry O’Neill of his
long-time Seminary friend. Besides making frequent
calls to the president to hear how things were going for RPTS staff and students, Mel made major
annual donations toward the mission of the Seminary and the Reformed Presbyterian Home
during his life. He continues to invest in both institutions by remembering them in his will.
You wouldn’t have known that Mel became a man of means. “Mel and Geneva (his wife
who also served in RP missions to Kentucky) lived a life of denying worldly pleasures so they
could be substantial givers to the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom,” said President O’Neill.
“And giving gave them joy.”
Mel loved the local church; and he understood
Mel loved the local church; and he
understood that pastors hold its
future....He gave sacrificially to
equip pastors because he himself
experienced transformation
under an RPTS graduate.
that pastors hold its future in their teaching, and that
they are the key for training laborers for the harvest
field. He gave sacrificially to equip pastors, because
he himself experienced transformation under an
RPTS graduate.
The Lord used RPTS alumnus Rev. M.K. Carson
to minister to Mel. Under Rev. Carson’s pastoring,
Mel came to a saving faith in Christ and became an
active servant. He loved to share the gospel, and he had a passion to see others love the church
and be changed by the Truth strongly communicated in the Reformed faith. And his life focused
on giving to the very end: while under hospice care as his body weakened, he yearned to
go and be with the Lord, “so that the remainder of my money can go to ministry.”
Mel and Geneva are both now with Jesus. Their legacy quietly continues at RPTS through
pastors trained to serve Christ’s people around the world.
Might you join the next generation of those who follow the Rutherfords’ example by giving
to RPTS, and strengthen our mission to train laborers for the harvest of Christ’s Church?
22 20 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010

...To Strength
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” –Nehemiah 8:10
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
All of us at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary thank you in advance for your
sacrificial gift to strengthen our ministry leadership training during the bicentennial campaign,
From Strength to Strength.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
President: Dr. Richard
Holdeman
Dr. Christian Adjemian
Mr. Richard Buck
Rev. Richard Johnston
Mr. Robert Koch
Mr. Jack McCready
Rev. Harry Metzger
Mr. John Mitchell
Rev. Donald Piper
Mr. Donald Reed
Rev. Martin Wilsey
Rev. Barry York
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE
Chair: Mr. Robert Koch
Mr. Tom Bellhy
Mr. Andrew Cooper
Mrs. Deborah Cooper
Mrs. Nancy Mason
Mr. Robert Mason
Miss Cynthia McBurney
Mrs. Bonnie Meyer
Mr. Dennis Meyer
Mr. John Mitchell
Mr. H. Edmund Schisler
Dr. Bruce Stewart
Mr. Keith Wing
FACULTY (FULL-TIME AND
ADJUNCT)
Rev. Bruce Backensto
Dr. E. Clark Copeland (Professor
Emeritus)
Dr. Richard Gamble
Dr. Jack Kinneer
Rev. Steven Miller
Dr. Jerry O’Neill
Dr. Dennis Prutow
Rev. Tom Reid
Dr. Edward Robson (Professor
Emeritus)
Rev. Anthony Selvaggio
Dr. Wayne Spear (Professor
Emeritus)
Dr. Robert Stauffer
Dr. Bruce Stewart (Professor
Emeritus)
Rev. Jeffrey Stivason
Dr. Calvin Troup
Dr. LeRoy Walker
Dr. Jonathan Watt
Rev. C. J. Williams
Dr. Rodger Woodworth
Dr. J. Renwick Wright (Professor
Emeritus)
STAFF
President: Dr. Jerry O’Neill
Mr. Bob Anderson
Mrs. Kim Backensto
Mrs. Maryln Black
Mrs. Kristy Brehm
Mrs. Carol Edgar
Mr. Matt Filbert
Miss Judy Linhart
Mr. John May
Mrs. Gretchen McElhinney
Mr. James McFarland
Mrs. Amy Troup
Ms. Carolyn Trunzo
Mr. Grant Van Leuven
And thanks from all the current and
future students and the people they
will serve in churches and mission
fields, in whom you are investing your
resources for Christ’s eternal Kingdom!
TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CAMPAIGN
Please get in touch with us so we can talk with Please contact:
you about your gift or pledge toward the 200th Grant Van Leuven
Anniversary campaign at RPTS. We’d like to walk Director of Development & Communications
you through any questions you have, learn how we Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary
can best serve your needs and interests, and thank 7418 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15208-2594
you for investing in the leaders of tomorrow’s Church. 412-731-8690 • gvanleuven@rpts.edu
Or, visit www.rpts.edu/participate.html to print and mail in your participation form.
Bicentennial Campaign 2005-2010 Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary 23 21

Blessed are those whose strength is in You....
They go from strength to strength
till each appears before God in Zion....
Look upon our shield, O God;
look with favor on Your anointed one....
For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
the Lord bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does He withhold
from those whose walk is blameless.
O Lord Almighty,
blessed is the man who trusts in You.
– Psalm 84:5-12

Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary
7418 Penn Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15208-2594
412-731-8690
www.rpts.edu