Biblical Seminary of Colombia, Medellin
Church leaders in Colombia have a concern that church growth in their country has been largely quantitative rather than qualitative, resulting in more numbers but not necessarily a deeper commitment. Biblical Seminary of Colombia (FUSBC) in Medellín, Colombia, was founded in 1945 and incorporated in 1986 to address the problem by training leaders to disciple Christians and help them grow. FUSBC exists to help churches build strong foundations and deep roots. This theological training center offers one of the few graduate level programs in South America. FUSBC students are required to participate in a yearlong internship, and many spend weekends ministering throughout the country. FUSBC students are recommended and supported by their own churches, increasing the likelihood that those students will return to their local congregations and apply what they have learned at FUSBC. An example of this is demonstrated in Lilian Aria, a FUSBC graduate student. Lilian teaches math in an institute for the deaf in the morning, and translates for deaf students in a high school program held in the evenings. She also works with the deaf in her church; evangelizing, discipling and signing during regular church services. Her goal is not only to win deaf people to Christ, but also to prepare deaf leadership to organize their own churches and ministries. Lilian wants to extend her ministry to people with other physical challenges.
FUSBC is accredited by the Latin American Association for Theological Education (ALIET) and the Association of Theological Education in Latin America (AETAL). FUSBC applied for government recognition in March of 1998 and has received approval for the bachelor program. This recognized program began in January 2002, and its first class graduated in 2006. FUSBC is working to improve the library by adding to their collection and providing professional training for the full-time librarian. The school also wants to widen the selection of majors and increase the number of graduate degrees available to students. FUSBC will continue to be a valuable regional influence as the faculty becomes more indigenous and resources allow for further faculty development.
FUSBC at a Glance
309 students (136 full-time, 36 part-time, 137 in extension programs)
16 faculty members
Led by an eleven-member board of directors
Fully accredited by ALIET, AETAL and Ministerio De Education
Degrees offered: BA in Theology
More than 800 graduates since 1945. More than 60% are estimated to be in ministry
Library contains 19,197 volumes