In this episode, Dr. Garry Friesen remembers Norm and Muriel Cook, a couple whose lives embodied a passion for missions, evangelism, and faithful Christian service. Long before Dr. G ever met them, he admired Norm through the influential film "Venture for Victory", which told the story of pioneering basketball teams that used sports ministry to open doors for the gospel around the world. As a young ministry leader, Dr. G used the film extensively and never imagined that one day one of its featured players would become a colleague and friend at Multnomah. Known affectionately as "Stormin' Norman," Norm brought the same energy and commitment to missions that had characterized his years of ministry overseas. Whether traveling from village to village sharing the gospel, mentoring students, or challenging colleagues to think more seriously about global missions, Norm inspired those around him to embrace God's heart for the nations. Together, Norm and Muriel became living examples of missionary dedication, encouraging countless students to consider how God might use them in ministry around the world. Dr. G also shares the story behind the Norman and Muriel Cook Missions Endowment, a scholarship fund established to help send faculty, staff, and students on short-term mission opportunities. Their enthusiasm for the project reflected their lifelong commitment to advancing the gospel. Yet beyond their ministry influence, many on campus remember Norm and Muriel for something equally powerful—their marriage. Seeing them walk hand in hand across campus served as a visible testimony that a Christ-centered marriage could thrive through decades of faithful service together.

In This Video
• Dr. G's early connection to the film Venture for Victory
• How basketball ministry helped open doors for the gospel around the world
• Meeting Norm Cook after admiring his ministry from afar
• The origin of the nickname "Stormin' Norman"
• Stories of Norm's missionary adventures and evangelistic passion
• Why Norm became one of Dr. G's personal ministry heroes
• The creation of the Norman and Muriel Cook Missions Endowment
• How the scholarship fund expanded opportunities for missions involvement across campus
• Norm's challenge to Dr. G to become "the most missions-minded academic dean in the country"
• The lasting influence of Norm and Muriel's example of faithful partnership in ministry
• How their marriage became an inspiration to students and faculty alike

About This Series
This video is part of a collection celebrating the story, ministry, and legacy of Dr. Garry Friesen (Dr. G), honoring the heritage of Multnomah School of the Bible / Multnomah University and the continuing work God is doing through new ministries around the world.

Stay Connected
If these reflections resonate with you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing with others who care deeply about Bible education and the legacy of Multnomah.

Donate
The production of these videos was provided by the Multnomah Family Team, if you would like to help sponsor more videos like this, please contact us here.