Theological Education by Extension (TEE)
Training for ministry involves the head (knowledge); the hands (skills) and the heart (spiritual formation). Therefore, the foundations of ministry training include theological study (TEE) combined with practical experience and spiritual formation. In some way everyone who is training will be involved in studying theology by extension. This is because BBCS churches are in every part of Bangladesh, often in remote places where the people have limited resources. Therefore, training needs to be flexible, low cost and accessible.
The model of training we use is to encourage people to study in their own area under the supervision of a trained TEE tutor who meets with them on a regular basis. They work through a whole series of books on different theological subjects and work towards a Certificate in Christian Ministry and then a Diploma in Theology. All TEE study is resourced through the Christian College of Theology Bangladesh (CCTB) and provided with the support of our BBCS TEE coordinators and tutors.
TEE study provides the foundation for all future study opportunities. If a person has a clear sense of calling and commitment and they have achieved the TEE requirements they can progress toward BTh and MA studies at CCTB.
At present we have nearly 300 such lay students under the supervision of Christian College of Theology – Bangladesh.
The opportunity to come to the training centre and to study TEE courses “back-to-back” to accelerate learning is also being offered for those with a recognized calling for ministry work.
Diploma in Applied Mission
BMTC is currently providing a Diploma in Applied Mission specifically to train those working in new outreach fields who are planting new churches. This is a full-time 2 year course and leads towards graduates being eligible for a BBCS special commission for mission. The training has 3 vital components:
- TEE study (in conjunction with an allocated TEE tutor and CCTB)
- In-person training weeks that develop the trainees skills and understanding (6 per year)
- Supervised and assessed field work in church planting
To graduate a trainee will need to successfully complete all 3 parts of the training.
The diploma has 7 core modules that form the basis of the in-person training:
- The Person and Work of Jesus
- Mission & Church Planting Skills
- Pastoral & Leadership Skills
- Peacebuilding & Holistic Mission Skills
- Spiritual Disciplines
- Staying the Course (resilience)
- The Bible & Christian Doctrine
Trainees are placed in a new outreach field for the 2-years duration of the course and their practical ministry is assessed through field visits and reporting.
