Ciapha “C.R.” Cooper, First-Year MDiv Student
Introducing C.R.
I was born and raised in Monrovia, Liberia, where I lived through the civil war. Those difficult years taught me perseverance and what it means to trust God completely for his protection. After fleeing to a refugee camp in Ghana, I was blessed to receive asylum in the United States in 2006 with my father and two sisters. My parents raised me with a strong foundation in the faith, and I was baptized at Eliza Turner African Methodist Episcopal Church in Liberia. My late grandfather, Bishop Marwieh, and my father, Ciapha R.A. Cooper I, have been my greatest inspiration for ministry and service.
In the years since, God has opened doors for me to serve in various capacities. I was ordained as a deacon at Pilgrim COGIC in San Jose, California. I served faithfully from 2014 to 2019 and also as a chief adjutant to the lead pastor and administrative assistant to the CA Western Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. When I moved to Washington in 2020, I joined Peace Arena as an executive and sanctuary pastor until February 2024, when I enlisted with the Washington Army National Guard. My heart has always been in service both to God and to others, which is why I felt called to pursue chaplaincy in the military.
What brought you to Seattle Pacific Seminary?
I graduated as valedictorian from Seattle Bible College in 2023, and now I am pursuing my Master of Divinity at Seattle Pacific University, a necessary step toward fulfilling my calling. Coming to SPU felt like the right place for this season of preparation. I chose SPU because I believed it would provide me with the theological depth and practical training I need to serve as a military chaplain and an Apostolic leader.
What has been meaningful in your first year at SPS?
My experience here has been incredibly fulfilling. The faculty, curriculum, and spiritual environment have all played a significant role in shaping me for the next step in my journey. SPS has not only challenged me academically but it has also nurtured my personal growth and my calling to serve God in both ministry and the military. It has been an enriching experience that I believe will leave a lasting impact as I step forward into this next chapter of service.