Brant's Defense at Fuller Theological Seminary

On April 20th, Brant defended his dissertation before his mentors, faculty, friends and family.  It was a wonderful turnout of people who came to support him and listen to his defense, as he had deep theological discussions with fellow scholars and theologians.  I have heard him talk about his research for years, listening to him formulate new ideas, fine tune specific pieces, and completely redo others.  It has been a long, focused, tiresome, and rewarding season of learning, researching and writing that finally brought him to this day.  What an absolute honor it was to witness and partake in this momentous occasion!

Brant's primary mentor, Dr. Grayson Carter, introducing him and his work.

Giving us a synopsis of what his researching and writing has been about.

He really just had fun and was relaxed throughout his entire defense!

The look of a man who is about finished with an incredibly successful defense!

Three of his mentors who had just left the room to discuss, and returned to announce that Brant passed his defense!!

A job well done!

A well-deserved hug from Dr. Richard Mouw, his secondary mentor.

All of Brant's mentors, including 3 who came out from the Netherlands.  Amazing scholars, who have blessed Brant and me with their support, encouragement and wisdom during his graduate work.

A very proud Dr. Grayson Carter with Dr. Brant Himes.

I've longed for this moment just as much as he has.  We worked so hard to get here, and I couldn't be more proud of this man!!

Dr. and Mrs. Brant Himes

Proud of these two fine gentlemen.  Brant and Clay were guest researchers in the Netherlands, and both successfully defended their dissertations at Fuller.  Next up, defending in Amsterdam!  

Dr. and Mrs. Brant Himes & Dr. and Mrs. Clay Cooke.  We did it, you guys!!

Bekah, my American sister, who endured life with me as a mom, homemaker, and wife to a PhD candidate in Kampen last year.  A bond we will share forever.

Following the defenses, we went to Il Fornaio in Pasadena where we enjoyed an amazing 4 hour celebratory dinner.  It was a beautiful way to close off this day.  

So many wonderful people, representing many who could not be with us in person.  The evening was filled with delectable food, wine, conversation and cheers.  We had a memorable evening together!

This is how Micah really feels about the festivities!

Micah, Hannah and my mom -- all incredibly important players in this journey, and proudly representing the family and friends who could not be there with us.  

Pretty sure we couldn't have made the transition to the Netherlands or back from the Netherlands without the love, help and support from our dear friends, Micah and Hannah.  So glad they could be at the defense and the dinner with us!

What an amazing night it was!!  We are anticipating another wonderful time of celebration in the Netherlands, when Brant defends this coming fall.  Until then, we count down the days to graduation!  Congratulations, Dr. Himes!!!