A request for an authorization to award advanced theology degrees at the Adventist Bible college in Florence was presented to the Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi by Pastor Lucio Altin, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Italy, on Ap
A request for an authorization to award advanced theology degrees at the Adventist Bible college in Florence was presented to the Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi by Pastor Lucio Altin, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Italy, on April 23 at Berlusconi’s office in the Chigi Palace in Rome.
The meeting was part of a legislative process and required gaining the Prime Minister’s signature on documents modifying the charter of Istituto Avventista Villa Aurora Seminario di Teologia, the Adventist Bible college in Florence. After subsequent approval by the parliament, Villa Aurora will be authorized to award two levels of advanced theology degrees, a major achievement for the 64-year-old institution.
Prime Minister Berlusconi also expressed interest in the work of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Italy, about which Altin provided an overview in remarks at the event.
Along with Altin, the Adventist delegation included Ignazio Barbuscia, director of the Villa Aurora institute; instructors Rolando Rizzo and Filippo Alma; and Dora Bognandi, public affairs and religious liberty director for the Adventist Church in Italy.
Villa Aurora, founded in 1940, began with instruction in Italian language, culture and art, as well as a theological faculty that prepares young people for pastoral ministry. Some 40 students from Italy, Europe and Latin America are enrolled in the theological course at the school.
Since 1989, the institute has concentrated on a three-year theology degree program, with students going on to other institutions for additional training. Now, the school is positioned to offer a complete five year theology course that goes beyond the basic training to a specialized theology degree. The Accrediting Association of Seventh-day Adventist Schools, Colleges and Universities also accredits the Villa Aurora institute.
