NEPAL - ThM Student Sponsorship
The Christian population in Nepal has grown significantly over the past decade. However, their theological education has fallen behind for various reasons.
Taiwan and Nepal have similar population sizes and Christian communities. In Taiwan, there are approximately 600,000 Christians, supported by a significant number of well-educated theologians. About a thousand individuals hold master's degrees in theology, and hundreds have earned doctoral degrees. This strong foundation in theological education helps meet the spiritual needs of the community.
Nepal has faced challenges that have hindered its theological development for many years due to historical and political issues. Despite having a significant Christian population, the country’s theological education requires further development.
Seminaries, particularly graduate schools, often struggle to gain recognition despite their essential role within the church. While it is widely acknowledged that seminaries prepare individuals to spread the gospel and support congregations, their broader contributions are frequently overlooked. These contributions include contextualizing the gospel, organizing biblical teaching, equipping pastors for public engagement, and addressing contemporary issues. Establishing higher theological education is crucial for the growth and impact of the church in any nation.
In a changing world, church leaders need expert guidance to address diverse viewpoints and navigate complex issues. Rigorous theological scholarship equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to engage with societal challenges and teach biblical doctrine. Therefore, an advanced theological institution at the graduate level is essential for modern churches.
WCCM is committed to enhancing the capabilities of Nepali churches through advanced theological education. As part of this important initiative, we will sponsor 50 students over the next five years to pursue a Master’s degree in Theology (Th.M.) at a locally accredited graduate seminary, serving as their second degree. The program will focus specifically on biblical and practical theology, equipping students with a deep understanding of scripture and its application in ministry. By investing in these future leaders, we aim to strengthen the theological foundations of Nepali churches and empower them to effectively engage with their communities.
Our vision is to significantly increase the total number of Th.M. (Master of Theology) graduates within Nepali churches, aiming to double this number over the next five years. This ambitious plan is designed to strengthen the educational foundation of their local seminaries by expanding the pool of qualified teachers. By equipping more individuals with advanced theological training, we aim to enhance the quality of theological education and better prepare church leaders to serve their communities effectively.
