On March 31, 2026, the Northern Asia-Pacific Division (NSD) launched a historic initiative that marks a major step forward in ministerial education. Under the academic coordination of Taiwan Adventist College, the NSD Ministerial Association, in partnership with the Education Department, established three extension Schools of Religion in Mongolia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The program adopts the motto “Learning the Word – Living the Calling,” aligning with the global church’s emphasis on “Grounded in the Bible and Focused on the Mission.”

The program aims to strengthen pastoral ministry across the region by equipping nearly 100 lay pastors with formal theological training. Participants will attend intensive academic sessions each April and October over a four-year period and earn a Bachelor’s degree in Theology upon completion.

The General Conference and the NSD are providing strong financial support, demonstrating their shared commitment to advancing mission work in some of the world’s most challenging regions. Each participating country also plays a key role by providing essential logistical support to ensure smooth implementation.

A diverse team of qualified professors from Taiwan Adventist College, NSD leadership, Sahmyook University, international institutions, and local fields will deliver the curriculum. These educators combine academic excellence with a strong missionary spirit as they teach a comprehensive 129-credit program designed to prepare pastors for effective ministry in complex cultural and religious contexts.

This initiative is particularly important for the 10/40 Window, where dense populations and diverse religious traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam, shape the mission field. The NSD faces unique challenges as it shares the gospel in secular and religiously pluralistic societies. By investing in education and leadership development, the Adventist Church actively strengthens the quality, effectiveness, and cultural sensitivity of pastoral ministry.

Jonas Arrais, vice president for Theological Education of NSD, expressed his gratitude and hope, saying, “With gratitude and faith, we celebrate this remarkable achievement. We are confident that under the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit, this program will bear lasting fruit in advancing the gospel mission throughout the NSD.”

Division leaders believe this initiative marks a significant turning point as the Adventist Church reaffirms its mission and prepares for the future in a rapidly changing world. Through this field-based theological training, newly equipped leaders will share the gospel more effectively within their cultural contexts and serve as vital bridges between the Church and their communities.

The original article was published on the Northern Asia-Pacific Division news site.