Sureste Presbyterian Theological Seminary - Update
Tabasco, Mexico
Forming Future Mission Leaders in Mexico
Sureste Presbyterian Theological Seminary believes that every pastor should develop a vision and a heart for sharing the Good News across cultures and countries. On October 12, the seminary sponsored an event called “CIMA Day” which provided an opportunity to share the importance of global mission in today’s world. The information was communicated in three main sessions over the course of seven hours. Through presentations, participants were introduced to the historical development of God’s purposes which focused on themes related to the biblical, historical, cultural and strategic aspects of God’s mission. The event was also sponsored by the Synod of Tabasco of The National Presbyterian Church of Mexico.
The idea for holding the event came about when the dean of the seminary, Rev. Juan Marcos Leon Sanchez, traveled with three students to Fraijanes, Costa Rica to attend a CIMA event that Shalom Community Church hosted January 7-13. Rev. Sanchez stated, “during our participation in that event we started conversations that, we hope, will be brought to fruition so that it may not only be a blessing but also help us become more of a blessing to others.” Nine months later the seminary hosted its own CIMA event. The gatherings brought together excellent sound biblical exposition and educational dynamics that helped participants understand what the mission of God is and how they can be part of it. Its global focus challenged the way people perceive the world and the Christian faith.
The seminary was also the venue for the first conference of the Mexican Presbyterian Mission Society. I had the privilege of speaking during the conference which emphasized the importance of mission-related courses as part of the curriculum. Several volumes in the growing library include inforamtion about ministering cross-culturally at the regional gathering of COMIMEX, an interdenominational movement that groups all the major missionary initiatives driven by Mexican Christians. The seminary has also launched a master’s degree program in New Testament that will serve the needs for ongoing leadership development among the fast-growing Presbyterian churches in Tabasco.
Fourteen students at Sureste Seminary are receiving scholarships through gifts made to The Outreach Foundation. Your support makes it possible for the Church in Mexico to be equipped for serving as God continues to guide them.
Sincerely in Christ,
Juan Sarmiento
Associate Director for Mission
Read more about Sureste Presbyterian Theological Seminary HERE.
THE NEED
The Outreach Foundation is seeking $25,000 for scholarships and operating costs for Sureste Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Make a gift HERE or by sending a check to our office.