Larry Wirtz: Sharing Christ Through Comedy
Since the 1980s, Larry Wirtz has worked full-time as an inspirational speaker, comedian, and illusionist.
After graduating high school, Wirtz took a few classes from Purdue University, but soon began performing full-time magic and comedy. “As scripture reminds us ‘the heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, the ears of the wise seek it out’,” Wirtz said. “Lifelong learning is more than a good idea, as for me, it has been a way of life. In my early twenties, I had the privilege of attending the historic Chavez College of Magic. Upon graduation, I was extended an invitation into their advanced ‘post-graduate’ course of study.”
Throughout his studies at Chavez, Wirtz still maintained a full performing calendar, but there was always a desire in him to finish a traditional college degree. “While leaning on the excuse of not having the time, I prayed to God that if it’s in His plan, I would obey,” Wirtz said. “That being said, a quarter of a century later, God (in His remarkable way) removed all obstacles and objections and created the opportunity for me to pursue a higher education. As for location – I was already familiar with Indiana Wesleyan University as I had performed and spoke multiple times at Phillippe Performing Arts Center for various conferences that hosted their event on IWU’s campus. The culture and spiritual belief structure of IWU became familiar, encouraging and inviting. I am not saying going back to school as a non-traditional adult learner was void of challenges or hard work, but He has created the opportunity for me to receive additional training for His purpose.”
As a non-traditional adult student at IWU, Wirtz began his experience completely online, which came with new opportunities for connection.
“Building cohort relationship via the internet was a new experience,” Wirtz said. “The Master’s program began on campus where personal introductions between cohort members, professors, and support staff were made. This made the whole experience more personable. The Ph.D. program involves on-campus experience along with online sessions. Relationship have been built between cohort members as well as with staff, and they have honestly become a kind of secondary family and support network.”
Wirtz graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2012 with a master’s degree in Ministry and Leadership. He graduated from Wesley Seminary in 2015, and is currently finishing his Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership. Wirtz was glad to have had the opportunity to come to IWU’s campus to walk across the stage at each of his graduations.
“I have a multi-faceted, non-traditional career that allows me to live an unplugged life,” Wirtz said. “I work as an educational specialist who has presented curriculum-based convocations in over 10,000 elementary, middle, and high schools across the United States and Canada. As each experience reflects a various season in my life, God takes my secular performing magic and comedy as well as my speaking experience and works continuously to transform them for His purpose. In this chapter of my life, I have found a home working with churches and faith-based organizations. Whether it is speaking, entertaining, or consulting from a Christian perspective on leadership issues and church growth, it is humbling that God is using me to share the Good News of Jesus Christ in a needy world.”
