Conference on Ministerial and Theological Education
August 18, 2009, Sahmyook University, South KoreaAn historical Conference gathered together professors of theology from Northern Asia-Pacific division and beyond. Dr. Carol Tasker associate professor of Religious Education, Spiritual Life at Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS), Philippines asserted “I believe the Holy Spirit has been working through this Conference.” Indeed the Conference of Ministerial and Theological Education was not only a great opportunity for a serious theological reflection, but also an opportunity for spiritual growth, exchange of ideas, fellowship and worship. Meeting at Sahmyook University Centennial auditorium, walking and having conversations at the Cafeteria gave additional contribution for the success of the Conference. I words of many of participants and speakers the tone and attitude of those who attended the sessions show mutual understanding a willingness to listen and share.
As a host Sahmyook University received delegates from all NSD regions giving a very good service for all participants and scholars local and from abroad. The Conference began on August 9 evening with a banquet offered by the President of Sahmyook University, Dr. Kim, Ki Kon and run trough until Thursday August 13, 2009. More than 70 delegates attended the sessions from 8:00 AM until 6:00 PM Monday to Thursday. These were four days of intense thinking and doing with plenary presentation and healthy discussion during the period for questions and answers.
The Biblical Research Institute of the General Conference team under the leadership of Dr. Angel Manuel Rodriguez gave outstanding lectures in the area of hermeneutics and guidelines for study the Scripture. The Conference also was enriched with the contribution of Dr. Raquel Korniejczuk, Academic Dean of Montemorelos University who taught in the area of Integration of faith and Learning. With her extensive experience, she offered a theory and praxis of how a university and school may implement integration of faith and learning concepts so faculty and students may be able to practice the Adventist philosophy of education.
Two associated editors gave important contribution during the sessions; they were Dr. Gerald Klingbeil, Adventist World and Dr. Willie Hucks, for Ministry magazine. Professors from NSD seminaries were also invited to give paper presentations from the perspective of the Asia context. It was evident that NSD theologians may be able to contribute to the world church.
As we conclude the Conference, there was a sense of a satisfaction and accomplishment. Scholars and participants focused on the opportunity for follow up, especially on the development of further Christian and theological education at NSD territories. There were exchange of ideas and plans that deserve continue dialogue and planning. At the end of the session the assembly took an action making a recommendation to NSD EXCOM for the creation of Biblical Research Committee at the division level.
For those who attend the sessions local and also those from outside South Korea the Conference was a great opportunity to reaffirm the principles of Sola Scriptura and at the same time be inspired to be faithful to SDA message and mission.
