What distinguishes EST Educational Center… from other theological schools in Poland?
Interdenominational character:
In the past, the Polish Protestant community was splintered into many tiny groups, which hindered growth. EST addresses this situation by bringing together people from different churches and backgrounds. EST students and graduates represent various denominations: Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist, Pentecostal, Brethren, Catholic fellowships and independent evangelical churches. Students learn, discuss and debate in the classroom, and they also work together in ministry activities. In this way they learn mutual respect for one another and the value of cooperation instead of competition, which carries over into their ministries during their studies and after graduation.
Teaching Program:
The Church in Poland is faced with major challenges. To prepare students for ministry opportunities, EST offers a wide variety of courses in Biblical studies, evangelical theology and practical theology. EST also trains the students in biblical analysis and exegesis, leading them to a deeper understanding of the Bible and skill in its application to Christian living.
Discipleship:
Faculty members spend a certain number of hours with their students and oversee student internships. Faculty also visit the students in their churches and communities. Ministering to students and graduates is an ongoing and developing process to meet new paradigms and realities in Poland. Faculty and administrative staff serve together in local churches, fellowships and in various ministry projects in Wroclaw and throughout Poland.
Growth through practical experience:
Ministry practice is an integral part of the EST curriculum in the B.A. program. During their studies, EST students are required to be involved in ministry internships that engages them in a wide variety of Christian service. Students serve as pastors, leaders, workers and mentors in churches, communities, Christian organizations, and mission trips.
Fully accredited B.A. program:
EST is officially recognized by the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education and is an accredited school of higher education. EST is the first private, non-denominational school in Poland to receive national accreditation by the Polish government.
Educational Center:
As an interdenominational, accredited academic institution, EST has transformed from a traditional theological school into an Educational Center that serves churches, fellowships, Christian organizations and Christian individuals regardless of their theological level and background. The mission of EST is to “equip Christians for effective ministry to strengthen the evangelical movement in Poland”. EST operates via its Educational Center, which trains and develops Christian leaders and the Christian community in Poland through the following areas: an accredited B.A. in Theology program, as well as the Institute of Church Development (for churches), the Academy of Third Age (for seniors), and special conferences, lectures, debates, workshops, training courses and concerts. In Poland, and also in other countries on the European continent, there is the need for new forms of theological education that are more relevant in the context of the 21st century.
Summary:
From 1990 to the present, EST has sought to stay focused on its core purpose and goals while making adjustments and being creative to meet new challenges and changes in Poland and its people. We are grateful to the Lord who has faithfully provided for the financial, spiritual and practical needs of EST since 1990. Please pray with us as we continue in His service “to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up…” (Ephesians 4:12).