When Dasthyan first felt God calling him to study the Bible overseas, he imagined himself in Australia. Growing up in Papua, Indonesia, he never anticipated his journey would lead him to the Pacific Northwest, navigating new cultures, learning English, and ultimately preparing for ministry at Portland Bible College.
Dasthyan’s path to PBC was anything but straightforward. Since age 14, he had sensed God’s call to study abroad. However, although he applied to numerous Bible colleges, the doors never seemed to open. Finally, through a connection with a PBC alum, he was able to enroll in PBC in 2020.
But just as he was settling into his studies, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, leaving him largely confined to his dorm room. While many found this time challenging, Dasthyan actually saw it as an unexpected gift. “I was at peace,” he says, describing the quiet dorms and the stillness that allowed him to focus on his studies and his spiritual growth without distraction.
Studying in the U.S. was a significant adjustment for Dasthyan. Although he had already completed a four-year Bible program in Indonesia, learning English was challenging. Dasthyan recalls spending hours reading the Bible and worshipping in English to learn as quickly as possible. It wasn’t easy. “I struggled with comparing myself with other students,” he says, but ultimately found peace in remembering that God had chosen him to make this journey. His advice to others who are struggling in this area is simple: “God chose you. So, never compare yourself with others. Instead, compare yourself with God’s purpose for you.”
After graduating from PBC, Dasthyan joined Victory Church in Oregon City, where he serves as the worship pastor and associate youth pastor, combining his passion for worship with a heart for mentoring young people. He is planning to pursue a master’s degree in counseling, inspired by the need he sees in his community for mental health support within the church.
Dasthyan’s journey is a testament to God’s provision. Despite being limited to a minimum-wage job because of visa restrictions, he completed his studies debt-free – an achievement he attributes to PBC’s scholarships and work opportunities. “Without the scholarship, I wouldn’t have finished my degree,” he says.
Today, Dasthyan’s story serves as an inspiration for other students navigating similar challenges. His journey reminds us that when God calls us to obey him, he also provides the means to do it.