Church "Golgotha", Minsk

Second year students of Bible College had practice in our church and recommended themselves from the best side. They took an active participation in the church life:

1. Taught Sunday school classes;
2. Gave lessons at art-technical creativity school by the church;
3. Participated in children outreaching activities;
4. Visited sick people at homes encouraging them;
5. Took part in physical works in the church;

The leadership of the church didn't have any claims to the students' ministry.

We express gratitude to the leadership of Bible College for sending their students to have practice at the church "Golgotha".

We would ask you to send your students to our church in future.

From the assistant of the bishop of Minsk region

I would like to express positive respond about the ministry of Bible College students. During the spring project two groups of students were at the church in the village of Otradnoye and in the town of Smolevichy. They worked well for the kingdom of God. In a short period of time they held a lot of useful activities encouraging believers and proclaiming the name of the Lord. They had, for instance, concerts, a performance for children "Puzzle", Bible study both for adults and children and other activities that attracted new people to fellowship at the church. May the Lord bless students in their preparation for their future ministry.

From the missionary in Smolevichy

It was a real blessing for Smolevichy. The students showed their love to the Lord and faithfulness in ministry. The fruit of their work witnesses of it.

I would like to say a few words about the leader of the project. He showed ability to lead and sense of responsibility in ministry.

From the church in Mosyr

We remember with great joy the time when students of Bible College had practice in our church. During the project we did a lot of good work for the Lord together. The students were obedient to the leadership of the church and also took initiative in reaching people with the Word of God.

In one word: "You and they are good servants!"

We will be looking forward to see your students in our church again.

   OUR FORMAL STATUS

The school has the status of a secondary spiritual educational institution (license #55 from July, 4 1994). The period of training is 2 years. Training is full time (residential). The Language of train-ing is Russian for which translators are regularly provided for from English speakers.

   PURPOSE of TRAINING

The school prepares capable Christian workers for various forms of ministry, specializing in missionary work (i.e. church planting). The program of training includes: theological subjects, practical ministry, and missionary projects. Lectures are given by teachers of the Theological Seminary; by staff of "New Life 2000"; and by pastors of churches from the different countries; as well as by pastors from the UCECB's churches. A distinctive of the teaching at the school is that pastors from the different countries share their practical experience of ministry with those who wish to devote themselves to the Lord's ministry. Diplomas are granted upon graduating from the school, while local churches retain the right to confer actual positions of leadership.

   TRAINING PROGRAM

The Training Program includes the following topics: Survey of the Old and the New Testaments; Principles of Interpretation of the Bible; Progressive Methods of Studying the Bible; Biblical Preaching; Survey of Biblical Doctrine; Pastoral and Church Ministry; Christian Education; Methods and Principles of Training Lay Leaders; Apologetics; Ethics; a History of the Church; and an intensive course of study in Practical Skills in Evangelism and Discipleship.
Visiting Pastors normally teach courses in two-week segments. The academic program is very intensive with a final exam at the conclusion of each course. Students also learn from pastors practical skills in local church ministry.

   PRACTICAL MINISTRY

Almost third of the school's entire curriculum is devoted to preparation for the ministry and practical application. Each week students in organized small groups are given practical assignments in ministry. Each student is involved in organizing evangelistic outreaches and leading at least one group of disciples. The focus is on increasing effectiveness in ministry leading up to graduation. Three times during the year and for one month during the summer students go on focused ministry projects in new regions of the country or within existing churches, implementing evangelism and follow up programs.

   STUDENT'S LIFE

Studies begin on September 1 and last until the middle of July, including the summer project. Students receive a stipend and nonresidents of Minsk are provided with dormitory space. Mandatory military service is officially postponed for the period of study.

      ADDMITTANCE

PProspective students should fill out an application questionnaire and present 2 letters of recommendation. The age of entrants is limited to between 18 and 35 years of age. At the time of application the prospective student must have been a Christian for not less than one year. Upon acceptance, entrants should be fully available for constant Christian ministry as directed by the Bible School. The entrant should have completed their secondary education (secondary special education is preferred, i.e. some professional training). Acceptance will be on a competitive basis, both men and women. Each class will be comprised of a maximum of 30% women.

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