Thanks to the partnership with the Seminario Teológico Nazareno del Cono Sur (STNCS) of Argentina and the Church of the Nazarene in Equatorial Guinea, the graduation ceremony of the first batch of students in the bachelor’s degree in theology was held in January in Bata, Equatorial Guinea.

Jorge Julca, STNCS rector, presided over the ceremony and shared an inspiring message, urging the graduates to consecrate their lives to the full service of God.

On this occasion, eight pastors and leaders received their bachelor’s degree in theology. This degree is internationally valid and is supported by the seminary's accreditations in various theological associations. The course of study includes all the fundamental disciplines of theological formation and places a special emphasis on contextualization, offering courses adapted to the African worldview.

“God has worked greatly in our lives,” said Pastor Marcelo Ndong, one of the graduates. “We value this opportunity in a context where many religious leaders do not prioritize education. We feel blessed by this training, which transforms us and many other people in the world.”

Agapito Manga Bingo, another graduate, agreed. 

“Thanks to this preparation, I now write essays and children’s Bible lessons, which I share with teachers in our church and others in the country,” he said.

The collaboration agreement between the STNCS and the Equatorial Guinea District was renewed for another four years, with the possibility of providing a certificate in theology program. The joint vision between the South American and African regions has made it possible to provide an excellent theological education to Equatorial Guinea.

The graduates would like to thank God for his guidance and blessing in this project, Rector Jorge Julca, the vice-rector, Eduardo Velázquez, and the entire Argentina seminary team for their invaluable support to make this graduation a reality. The graduating class is also thankful to all the stakeholders on the African continent for their support and the local administrative team led by Daniel Ncuna.

“During these years, I have grown as a leader, broadening my understanding of biblical doctrine and strengthening my knowledge in theology and church history,” says Arnold Sebastian Esono Obiang, a member of the graduating class. “This training has enriched my personal development, helping me to have a more open and critical mind.”

Continue to pray for the graduates and those who are currently enrolled in the theological program in Equatorial Guinea.

Related: Equatorial Guinea and NTS-Southern Cone celebrate 'borderless education' agreement