THEOLOGICAL FORMATION OF LAY LEADERS
Social Context:
The constant increase in the cost of living and
poverty oppresses families of meager
resources. The neo-liberal policies
concentrate capital in the hands of few,
leading to increased misery of many and
riches for a few. The Costa Rican
Presbyterian Church exists in this context.
The neo-Pentecostal movements propagate a message with messianic tendencies and of spiritual wars sustained with a theology of prosperity. These movements have diverted the attention of believers from real problems that need to be confronted and give false illusions. The reality that the church is living moves us to serious reflection on the Word so as to edify the church without evading social and political realities. Pastors, leaders, and missionaries are called to take seriously this challenge.
IEPC has gained respect from other churches, religious groups, and institutions because we proclaim an integral Gospel in a fragmented world and we are committed to the personal transformation of believers and social change.
Residency Modality:
These are periodic courses of one to two weeks, which are held in the IEPC offices, a local church, or at the LatinAmericanBibleUniversity (UBL). This past year the following courses were given:
1. "Word, power and action of Jesus in the synoptic Gospels". Given by doctor in theology Adela Ramos, graduate of the Protestant Faculty in Strasburg, France.
2. "Faith and Theology". Given by Dr. Arturo Piedra Solano, graduate of the University of Edinburgh, Scotland in Ecclesiastical Pastoral History.
3. "Biblical Images of Christ". Given by Dr.Victorio theology professor at UBL.
4. "Christian Ethics". Given by Professor Roy Mae at UBL.
5. "Pastoral Counseling" Given by Sociologist Sara Baltodano graduate of St. AndrewsUniversity in Scotland.
Fifty-three residency students participated last year. The group was comprised of an almost even number of men and women.
Extension Modality:
These courses are given to groups of students from our missions and churches that have organized to complete the "Seminary by Extension to the Nations" studies. Students begin with the New Life in Christ book which studies the personality and life of Jesus. Groups are led by a facilitator and meet weekly to go over the lessons and raise themes of interest to the participants. Last year 50 students participated in the course by extension.
The training of lay leaders makes a substantial contribution to the growth and development of the missions and churches. The studies stimulate leaders and pastors to continue their formation through biblical theological reflection.
US Contact: Stan de Voogd • 319 Camden Street • San Antonio, Texas • 78215
Phone/Fax 210-299-5011• Email: devoogd@swbell.net
Costa Rica Contact: Rev. Elizabeth Delgado • Apartado 1473-1002, Paseo de los Estudiantes • San Jose, Costa Rica
Tel: 011-506-225-0442
Fax:011-506-
225-4058 Email: fiecos@racsa.co.cr |
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ECO # 048001
© Costa Rican Presbyterian Church (IEPC), 2005
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