Many churches throughout Ukraine operate without a pastor or share one pastor among several churches.  Many of these pastors have experience but lack theological education.  These realities leave pastors spread thin and ill-equipped.  This also impacts church planting, stunting the growth of new churches because of a lack of qualified leaders.

To help meet these needs, Odessa Theological Seminary has developed the Bachelor of Pastoral Ministry program which allows pastors and church leaders to continue their ministry while receiving a higher theological education.  Program participants receive theological and biblical training, personal mentorship and training in practical issues, such as marriage and family, church administration, alcohol abuse, youth ministry and many other topics. 

Pastoral Ministry students study for four years in a modular format, meeting five times a year at the seminary for two-week long classroom sessions.  In between sessions, they complete assignments while continuing to minister and earn a living.  Because of limited space and resources, the seminary can start a new class of students once every four years. 

The men who have completed this program have already had a significant impact on the Odessa Region and beyond as they incorporate new skills and knowledge into their current preaching, teaching, music, evangelism, missions and compassion ministries.

The current cost per student is approximately $2000 a year.  SEND is committed to provide half of this cost to the seminary.  SEND hopes to build a team of supporters who will commit to regular support for these men during their time of study.  However, if you are not able to make a monthly commitment, any financial gift would be joyfully received.

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