Ukraine Bible school reopens as war continues
By Chris Moss | Ukraine in Europe
Learning at Odesa Theological College. Photo by Odesa Theological College
A major Bible school has re-opened in Ukraine, even as fighting continues in the country.
Leadership and faculty staff at Odesa Theological Seminary, which is a close partner of SIM, have decided to start the new academic year as usual, despite the ongoing conflict with Russia. Only five months ago, their city was under hostile missile attack.
Courses will be running on campus, online, and also at extension sites in some of the areas where students live.
A spokesperson for the college said: “Last week we had the first campus session for the students of the Bachelor of Pastoral Ministry programme. It was a time not just of learning, but of great fellowship for both students and faculty. The usual routine -lectures, breaks, homework, student fellowship - which we used to take for granted feels like something special and even therapeutic this year! The students left for their churches refreshed and encouraged.”
The college, which has more than 2000 graduates, was founded in 1989 and runs courses in Pastoral Ministry, Leadership of Christian Education, Biblical Preaching and Biblical Studies.
As well as training gospel ministers, the school is also seeking to live it out. Anticipating a difficult winter, and irregularities in gas and electricity supplies due to the war, they are considering opening dormitories for people who have lost their homes.
While all acknowledge the instability and potential danger, students and staff say they are grateful to God for the opportunity to continue training and being equipped to share the gospel: that Christ has made peace for us through his death on the cross.
Pray
• for the establishment of just and stable peace in Ukraine
• for the safety of students and faculty, their families, and for all Ukrainians
• for wisdom in preparing for the coming cold season
Give
If you feel led to donate for Odesa Theological Seminary, you can do it through Connect International* or the American-Ukrainian Evangelical Fellowship**
*Connect International is located in Sacramento, CA. On the link after you complete your information, you will choose to donate to Odesa Theological Seminary. You can ask it be as needed, or specifically for relief work, or for general expenses. The link: https://www.connect-inter.com/language/en/donate/
** The American-Ukrainian Evangelical Fellowship. They accept checks for tax-deductible donations. Note for Odesa Theological Seminary. AUEF, 106 S Knights Crossing Drive, Spring, Texas, 77382
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