Manila, Philippines: On Saturday, May 29, 2021, Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary held its 36th Commencement Ceremony online – without the pomp and pageantry, without the robes, the handshakes, the hugs, and the handing of diplomas of traditional graduations. Bishop Efraim Tendero – Global Ambassador for the World Evangelical Alliance gave an encouraging message to the graduating students.
36 on 36th
The best statistics this year is that on our 36th commencement we had 36 graduates from 10 countries.
- 9 graduates from the Philippines
- 9 graduates from Myanmar
- 7 graduates from South Korea
- 3 graduates from the United States
- 2 graduates from India
- 2 graduates from Japan
- 1 graduate each from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Pakistan, and Peru
This year APNTS had its first graduates from their new programs Masters of Arts in Intercultural Studies and the Doctor of Ministry in Transformational Ministry. Two students earned the Doctor of Philosophy degree, a program offered in partnership with the Asia Graduate School of Theology – Philippines.
APNTS expanding its impact around the world
Like the rest of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many of our students. This challenge gave them the opportunity to find creative ways in learning and ministering to each other online. The Ph.D. programs are thriving.
APNTS continues to expand its impact and reach around the world. Classes are represented from two to three continents. Professors became more adept at teaching via Zoom. Students learned how to do research with online resources. However, everyone still misses face-to-face relationships.
Distinctive to this graduation is the happening of Myanmar Coup d’etat, leaving our 9 Myanmar graduates unable to return to their country soon. Therefore, the students will consider pursuing other programs and opportunities. Pray with them as they remain anxious about their families and friends in Myanmar.
APNTS is immensely proud of its graduates this year as they have persevered during an incredibly challenging year. And we watch as the graduates’ march towards their dreams and live God’s purpose in their lives.
