AUSTIN, Texas (October 30, 2015)— Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary announces a new program entirely in Spanish, Certificado en Ministerio (CEM), with course offerings starting in winter term—Jan. 4 - March 11, 2016. The program is designed for people with a wide range of educational backgrounds.

The first term of courses in Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary’s new Spanish-language Certificate in Ministry (CEM) program begins on November 16, with courses being taught by Professors Philip Wingeier-Rayo and Gregory Cuéllar.

Austin Seminary has designed this series of courses to address the interests of adult students of Christian history, theology, and biblical studies. Some of those discerning a call to be Commissioners Ruling Elders in presbyteries of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) may find that these courses meet the requirements of their presbytery for commissioning.

The winter term will consist of courses in “Church Planting and Evangelism,” taught by Professor Wingeier-Rayo, and “Old Testament Exegesis,” taught by Professor Cuéllar. Future course offerings will include “"The Latin Church in the Context of the United States," “New Testament Exegesis,” and “Theology and Ethics.”

Each course will be designed by Spanish-speaking teachers and leaders in their field of study, and all will be taught in Spanish.

“I am thrilled that Austin Seminary is embarking on this new venture in Hispanic theological education,” said Academic Dean David H. Jensen. “The CEM program offers an affordable, engaging basic theological education for leaders in Latino churches. And, because it incorporates distance-learning technologies, it is an education that is accessible to anyone with a web connection.”

A total of seven courses (six required and one elective) must be successfully completed to obtain the certificate. However, students may enroll for courses individually, even if they choose not to follow the certificate program. 

Information about the CEM program may be found at http://www.austinseminary.edu/CEM.

ABOUT AUSTIN SEMINARY:

Founded in 1902, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is an institution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership. For more information and ways to support Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, visit www.austinseminary.edu.

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