AMD Launches First PTS/CLS International Diploma Cohort in Chile

A pioneering event concludes today as over fifty students and ten national overseers leave the first meeting of the first international diploma cohort being offering by the Church of God of Prophecy’s Accredited Ministry Development, in collaboration with the Center for Latino Studies (CLS) at the Pentecostal Theological Seminary (PTS).

The program offers ministers and church leaders an opportunity to study courses that lead to a Diploma in Wesleyan-Pentecostal Ministry. These courses are offered online with opportunities for students to participate in face-to-face intensives with qualified instructors.

The inaugural cohort met November 9-12, 2017 at the Church of God of Prophecy’s national complex in Santiago, Chile. Students participated in two courses, Roots of Pentecostal Spirituality, taught by Dr. Wilfredo Estrada-Adorno, former director of the Center for Latino Studies, and Applied Theology, Research, and Writing, taught by Dr. Wilmer Estrada-Carrasquillo, acting director of the Center.

“This is the beginning of great process that will educate more than 1,000 pastors in South America” said Gabriel Vidal, general presbyter of South America. “I believe this initiative will change the course of the Church in South America.”

In addition to the students in attendance, national overseers of the Church of God of Prophecy throughout South America gathered to observe the courses and dialogue about bringing the program to their respective areas.

“The response in Chile to the diploma program has been overwhelming and participation far exceeded our expectations,” said Shaun McKinley, director of Accredited Ministry Development, who was also in attendance for the launch of the program. “There is a palpable, growing desire among our people for theological education and training. Chile is only the beginning of a growing list of nations and states where the diploma program is set to bring the accessible, practical training. I am grateful for our partnership with the PTS and CLS for making this program available to our constituents.”

Sixty-six students have been accepted into the program in Chile thus far. The program is initially set to offer up to six courses per year for these students.

“This is an historic moment for the Center for Latino Studies and the Pentecostal Theological Seminary, as we embark on a project that goes beyond our local mission and partners with institutions that are globally engaged in theological education” said Dr. Wilmer Estrada-Carrasquillo.

Those wishing to support this program may give to a scholarship fund established by AMD. 100% of gifts given to the South America Education Fund go to sponsor schools and students participating in this program. To give, visit cogopamd.org.

About the Diploma/Certificate Program
The Diploma in Wesleyan-Pentecostal Ministry equips laity and ministers who are actively serving or are called to serve their local communities. It is a pre-seminary qualifying program for those who are seeking to expand their theological education. Upon successful completion, the student will be able to apply to any Master’s Degree at the Pentecostal Theological Seminary. This 90-unit program that is certified by the Association for Hispanic Theological Education (AETH) and approved by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) in the United States and Canada.