Shaping Servants for Ministry
The Impact of the Certificate in Ministry Program
Since the Church in the Arab world is facing both opportunities and challenges, the Certificate in Ministry program stands as a strategic initiative to equip leaders and servants in their churches. Designed for individuals actively engaged in ministry, the program offers a strong theological foundation alongside practical skills for intellectual, emotional and spiritual growth. Each three-month term, we offer three core courses and one elective. Students can adjust their course load to balance study with the demands of full-time ministry and their working hours. This accessible and flexible format has drawn students from Lebanon, Syria, Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen, Iraq, Morocco, Algeria, Sudan, and South Sudan, creating a rich and diverse learning community.
Elia Shehata, the program lead, shared that the program challenges students to think deeply, engage meaningfully with theological content, and apply their learning within their own contexts. Over the course of seventeen courses, including four electives, students gain practical skills and theological insight. However, the program offers much more than academic learning; through thought-provoking questions and real-life application, students are encouraged to reflect and grow.
In the most recent term, students enrolled in the following courses: Elements of Christian Faith between the Past and Present, The Life and Teaching of Jesus, Introduction to Islam, and Preparing for Persecution.
Mireille, a tutor of Elements of Christian Faith between the Past and the Present, shared how this course deeply impacts both students and instructors. Mireille reflected on the joy of witnessing the students’ growth.
Academic Team Meeting
It’s encouraging to see how, step by step, the students go deeper into God’s word. Many students juggle ministry responsibilities, difficult life circumstances, and even limited access to basic resources like internet or electricity, yet their passion to learn inspires me. Personally, tutoring reminds me that the Bible is a source that never runs dry. I’m always learning too.
Ashraf, who graduated from the Bachelor of Theology program in 2012 and is now enrolled in the Master of Theology program, serves as a pastor of a church in North Cairo. As a tutor of Elements of Christian Faith between the Past and the Present in the Certificate in Ministry program, he emphasized the course’s transformative impact, noting that it nurtures both critical thinking and deep spiritual growth. He recalled what students had shared with him about the impact of this course. One student expressed that he now has a stronger understanding of the Bible’s reliability through studying manuscript documentation and biblical proof. Another student shared how the course helped them recognize God’s will through Scripture and grasp the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering the Church. In addition, a third student said it clarified the doctrine of the Trinity in a structured and meaningful way, an often neglected yet foundational truth.
Rania, a student who is involved in Sunday school ministry, women’s ministry and home visits at her church shared:
Ashraf
Through my studies at ABTS, my perspective on God, myself, and the Church has been deeply transformed. In the Life and Teachings of Jesus course, I encountered Christ anew and experienced the profound depth of His humility and authority, an encounter that stirred a deeper love for Him in my heart. The Elements of Christian Faith between the Past and Present course helped me understand my faith not as a set of scattered beliefs, but as a living, cohesive framework. I now read God’s word with greater clarity and understanding, receiving it as daily nourishment for my soul. This journey has marked a shift in me: from being just a student to becoming a true disciple of Christ, led by grace and walking by faith. This transformation has also shaped my ministry. Now, when I share God’s word, I no longer offer information alone, I share a living message, rooted in a real and growing relationship with Christ. I use Jesus’ teachings as a foundation for dialogue and encouragement, and I ground my responses to people’s questions in the biblical truths. I’ve learned to listen attentively to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, remaining open and flexible to how God desires to work through me. As a result, my ministry has become more balanced, authentic, and fruitful, bringing encouragement not only to others but to me as well.
Ali, a student, involved in kids, youth and home visits ministries, expressed how the course impacted him:
Among all the courses I have taken, the one that impacted me the most was Elements of the Christian Faith Between the Past and the Present. We explored how heresies arise from isolating and misinterpreting biblical texts out of context. The course deepened my understanding of the Trinity and the divine fellowship of love. It also reshaped my approach to Scripture and ministry, making me more committed to faithful interpretation, and more grounded in love and humility.
Joseph, a student who is involved in worship and home visits ministries shared:
I loved the Life and Teaching of Jesus course. It helped me see Jesus not only as a Savior but also as a role model of humility and servanthood. What touched me most was how close Jesus was to people, especially the marginalized. This course has opened my eyes to serve more with love towards others.
We are thankful that through thoughtful theological study and dedicated mentorship, the Certificate in Ministry program continues to help shape lives and strengthen ministries across the Arab world. As students grow in their understanding and walk with Christ, they are better equipped to serve in diverse and often challenging contexts, guided by God’s word and empowered by His grace.