About Emdiber Pastoral and Theological College
Brief History
Emdibir Pastoral and Theological College was founded in October 2012 as Amharic Bible School under the governance of Gurage Kale Heywet Church in Gurage Emdibir.
The school was originally named Gurage Amharic Bible School. Eight years later, in 2020, in response to the need for pastoral training, we began a Diploma program
in Theology in English, renaming the school Gurage Pastoral Institute. After two graduating classes with a Diploma of Theology, the Bachelor of Theology program was
launched in 2024 and the school’s name changed to Emdibir Pastoral and Theological College. From 2024 onward, the college offers both Diploma of Theology and Bachelor of Theology programs.
Faith Statement
We adopt the Emdiber Pastoral and Theological Collegen Kale Heywet Church (EKHC) statement of faith, emphasizing core Christian beliefs:
- The Trinity: One God, eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit.
- Jesus Christ: Fully God and fully man, born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died for our sins, rose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and will return.
- Salvation: A gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ, not earned by works.
- Holy Spirit: Active in believers, empowering them to live for Christ.
- The Bible: The inspired Word of God, the ultimate authority for faith and practice.
- Humanity: Created in God's image but fallen and in need of redemption.
Vision
To see transformed servant leaders who know the character and context of God's flock and nourish, protect, and mature them in the Word of God.
Mission
To provide pastoral and theological training that fosters biblical knowledge, character change, and skill development, preparing and equipping ministers for the church in Emdiber Pastoral and Theological College and beyond.
Purpose
To produce competent pastoral ministers who are developed in biblical knowledge, transformed in character and attitude, who worship and serve God faithfully, and who are able to make disciples in their context by feeding, leading, preaching, and teaching the Word.
Main Focus of Training
- Enable ministers to be examples and nurture church members spiritually, supporting them with the Word of God and protecting them from false teachings.
- Equip ministers to disciple others, encourage, lead, and supervise in practical Christian living.
- Prepare ministers to coordinate various church services for the unity and purpose of God's kingdom.
- Provide sound biblical teaching so the church can be led according to Scripture and the unity of the Spirit is ensured.
- Train ministers to conduct church services according to the Word of God.
Contextuality and Discipleship
Our teaching is contextual to the churches where students will serve.
- Each course addresses real challenges faced by the church and offers biblical solutions.
- Students learn to use the gospel to reach people and make disciples, connecting the country’s context with the gospel mission.
Weekend Ministry
Students serve in surrounding areas on weekends, providing ministry in partnership with local churches. This benefits both the local churches and the students, giving practical ministry experience and building relationships with local congregations.
Programs Offered
- Diploma of Theology: Two-year program (85 credit hours) covering general, biblical, theological, hermeneutical, and ministerial studies.
- Bachelor of Pastoral and Theological Studies: For those with a diploma, a two-year (90 credit hours) program; for those without, a three-year (124 credit hours) program.