In Jakarta, we met with the President and Deans of the Jakarta Theological Seminary (Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Jakarta). This seminary has 19 full-time faculty, and offers 6 degree programs, from a Bachelor of Divinity to Dr. of Theology. It operates a Center for Lay Learning, at the Seminary campus and in other locations, and has developed a post-graduate program for Christian Education. Mission co-worker Rebecca Young teaches systematic theology at the seminary, and is involved in many other ways with the people of Indonesia (you can read some of her letters at http://www.pcusa.org/missionconnections/profiles/youngr.htm )
Pure water and good theology are both necessary: Rebecca Young (photo by David Hudson)
The seminary is now facing one of those challenges that are also opportunties: They are designing curriculum and conducting courses to certify teachers of Christianity for both public and private schools, in response to a new requirement of the Indonesian government (all such teachers must be certified by 2015).
The seminary is also developing a center for the documentation of Chrristian history in Indonesia, working on building facilities for preserving materials and research. They have developed a Christian Education Resource Center; and are partnering with legal and human rights offices of the government in developing a Peace Education and Reconcilation Center.
The Seminary is connected with many churches in the Reformed family. STT Dean of Faculty, Yusak Soleiman (center) is heading the effort to build a center for the study of the church in Indonesia. (photo by David Hudson)
Great news for the Christian community. Looking at the history of Christianity in Indonesia should be interesting. But the peace education is what will attract most attention.
Posted by: Building Materials | 03/04/2011 at 03:17 AM