Trey Van Camp

Quick Facts

Program: Bachelor of Applied Theology
Graduation Year: 2014
Current Job Title: Church Planter and Lead Pastor of Passion Creek Church
Hometown: Queen Creek, AZ
Current City: Queen Creek, AZ

Life at CBU

Why did you choose your major? What interested you in this particular field of study?
I knew at an early age that I would be involved in vocational ministry. Therefore, I had a very clear picture of what I was looking for in a college. CBU had everything I was looking for and more. I was also very grateful that I could stay on the West Coast.

What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
I really liked the small nature of our classes in the BAT program. I felt the professors truly cared about us and wanted to contribute to our calling to the best of their ability. Additionally, I loved the emphasis on pastoral ministry. They truly equipped us to lead a church with truth and love.

What did you think about your professors?
They were my favorite part of the program. It is such a rare opportunity to have college professors who teach seminary level education while having the experience and compassion of a pastor. They always pushed me in my education and gave me a foundation that I still benefit from today. I still keep in contact with them even though it’s been 6 years since I graduated.

Did you complete an internship?
Yes, I completed my internship as a youth director at First Baptist Mira Mesa. It was a humbling experience and I was able to ask a lot of on-the-job questions to my field worker and my professors.

Did you participate in anything else at CBU?
Yes, I did. I was an RA for two years in the University Place apartments. It was such a joy creating community for our residents and opportunities for them to learn more about following the way of Jesus. I also loved my staff. It truly felt like a brotherhood.

How did you grow (spiritually, socially, educationally) while in this program at CBU?
I grew immensely through this program. It is honestly hard to summarize how much it changed me for the good. It taught me how to think. It taught me how to make relationships that feel like family. It taught me how to worship God with all my heart, mind, body, and soul.  

Did your major help you figure out your purpose?
I always knew I’d be involved in pastoral ministry. However, CBU equipped me to recognize my own particular skillset and how I can best contribute to the kingdom of God.

Life after CBU

What have you done since graduating?
Two years after graduating from CBU, I planted Passion Creek Church in Queen Creek, AZ. We are just a few months away from celebrating our fifth anniversary. In an area where a lot of church plants don’t make it past year three, God has blessed us to be in a stronger position than ever before. We’ve had over 50 baptisms and 70% of our congregation are actively involved in a weekly Bible study.

In addition to church planting, I also post weekly videos to my YouTube channel. It has given me opportunities to speak at conferences around America to teach pastors and ministry leaders how to use YouTube for the glory of God.

How has your major and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?
I often wonder where I’d be without my time at CBU. I am convinced that I would not have been prepared to start and sustain a local church without my time at CBU. I’m also grateful for the friendships that I still keep today. I usually call at least one friend from CBU every month to catch up and stay encouraged.

Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life today?
I learned how to rightly handle the Word of God. I learned how to walk people through the ups and downs of life. CBU taught me how to develop leaders and multiply. I learned how to deal with conflict and lead with truth in love. I use all of these on a daily basis.

How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?
I am glorifying God by planting a church in one of the fastest growing cities in America. It is my joy to pursue Jesus with my congregation. I can honestly say that I am living my purpose and I am loving every second of it.

Would you recommend CBU to others?
Absolutely. It will change your life. The community, the education, and the location are second to none. I honestly can’t be a bigger advocate for CBU.