Charis Bible College Belfast Prospectus
Charis Bible College Belfast Prospectus Why Come to Charis? 04 About the College 06 Biblical Training Institute 08 Practical School of Ministry 12 Mission and Outreach 16 Life at Charis Bible College 18 Studying in Belfast 20 Applying to CBC Belfast 22 03
Why Come to Charis? Charis Bible College is more than just a school for academics. Our courses are vocational and practical. We strive for a balance between the academic study of God s Word and hands on ministry experience. We equip everyday people to become able ministers of the Gospel. Our programme consists of a first year Bible Training Institute, with a second year Practical School of Ministry. And for those who believe they are called to full time ministry, the third year apprenticeship programme can provide great on the job experience. CBC Belfast offers the ideal environment for transformation, as your mind is renewed by the Word of God. For some, this two year commitment has restored their lives and their faith as they have discovered their true identity in Christ. Many attend to answer a call from God and prepare for ministry. Others come just to develop their own personal relationship with the Lord and help loved ones and friends close to them. Whatever the motive, it s a life changing experience. 04
My vision is to see many people trained and equipped to share the good news gospel, through the study of the Word and practical hands on ministry training. Allan Bruce, Director of CBC Belfast 05
About the College Charis Bible College Belfast is part of a worldwide network of colleges founded in 1994 by Andrew Wommack Ministries in Colorado Springs. Today there are over one thousand students attending its Colorado campus and nearly eight hundred more attending through satellite colleges around the world. Doctrinal Statement 06 We believe that all Scripture is verbally inspired by God, and is our final authority in all matters pertaining to doctrine. We believe in the unity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit in the Godhead. We believe in the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, of His shed blood for the forgiveness of our sins, of His bodily resurrection and ascension to the Father s right hand. We believe that Jesus Christ is the only way through which we can receive salvation. We believe in the baptism with the Holy Spirit expressed with speaking in tongues according to Acts 1:8. We believe that the redemptive work of Christ on the cross has provided healing for the human body.
Core Values Academic Study Theological study of God s Word is at the very heart of everything we do at Charis. We are committed to the Bible as being the very Word of God which changes our minds and hearts enabling us to live Gospel centered lives serving God and others. Fellowship and Community CBC Belfast consists of a diverse community of people from different churches, countries and walks of life. College life is a rich environment of worship, corporate prayer, discussion groups and serving environments. Practical Ministry Experience Learning at Charis is linked to practical ministry experience. We believe in students being active members of a local church and encourage them to carry out their practical ministry hours serving there. Mission We put a strong emphasis on missions both at home and overseas. We believe in the outward flow of God s love which we freely receive and freely give. All second years participate in an overseas mission trip which provides a great learning environment for future ministry skills. 07
Biblical Training Institute Our first year programme is focused on building a strong biblical foundation. Students receive in depth teaching from both Old and New Testament Scriptures. Key Disciplines Study of the Word Teaching emphasis is on grace and walking with the Holy Spirit through the work of the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Practical Ministry Every follower of Jesus is called to love and serve others. Students are required to volunteer 25 hours per term to serve in practical ministry in their local church or community. Local Outreach Students are involved in the local outreach discipleship course which is run one night a week from the college and is open to the public. They facilitate the running of the course by setting up the room, preparing the refreshments, welcoming the people and participating in discussion throughout the lesson. Skills needed for any ministry such as faithfulness, punctuality and administration are learned through hands on experience. 08
I went into first year with a mind to study scripture and experience God. I ve had my heart transformed by God s Word and I ve gained a family of community as well. Thomas, First Year Student 09
Our goal is to create environments where students can receive in depth teaching of the scriptures and in the same day have a chance to be doers of the Word through serving others around them. Teaching at CBC The Biblical Training Institute covers most of the academic work needed to then begin to minister in a teaching capacity in the second year Practical School of Ministry. The modules cover an Old Testament Overview, thorough study of specific books in the New Testament, how to study using a concordance and more, leaving the students with a firm foundation in biblical knowledge. Many of the teachers at CBC have been in ministry for 30 or 40 years and have much wisdom to share. As CBC Belfast is an extension school 2hrs teaching a day is delivered by DVD and the remaining 2hrs is live teaching from in house lecturers. A wide variety of international speakers from our main campus in Colorado and guest speakers from local churches also teach at the college. The academic study not only equips students for ministry but it also transforms their hearts through a deeper understanding of the Gospel. Students from many Christian denominations and nations not only study together but worship, pray, eat and do life together. It is this rich community that helps students grow in the knowledge of God s Word in unity and friendship. 10
Modules Covered A Sure Foundation Holy Spirit Bible Covenants Introduction to The Bible The Basics of Righteousness God s People The Heart Ephesians - Finally My Brethren Relationship with God Old Testament Survey Galatians Maturing into full stature in Christ The Beatitudes 21st Century Christianity The First Book of John Receiving from God Faith Builders Romans Basic Bible Doctrines Understanding Israel Healing 16hrs 24hrs 16hrs 32hrs 48hrs 16hrs 11
Practical School of Ministry Our second year programme combines classroom teaching with hands-on training in real ministry situations and the privilege of participating in one mission trip abroad. Key Disciplines Preaching Students are given a wide variety of opportunities to learn the teaching skills necessary to preach from the pulpit and in a foreign culture. Pioneering Ministry Skills We put a strong focus on training our students on the skills and character needed for pioneering a ministry such as church planting. Missions Students learn how to function as a team in a foreign culture, in unfamiliar surroundings. They may have the opportunity to learn how to share the Gospel and give a sermon through an interpreter. These trips are financed through fund raisers that the students organise throughout the year. 12
In second year I learned how to become a more efficient minister of the gospel by putting the truths I learned in first year into practice. Luke, CBC Graduate 13
Second year students have been through a full year in the Biblical Training Institute and are now ready to start pouring out what they have received in various ministry environments. Practical Ministry Environments The academic study includes modules such as Paul s Instruction to Timothy and Lessons from Nehemiah. The course also covers teaching on pastoral care situations such as how to pray for the sick, how to officiate at weddings and funerals and how to deal with conflict in the church. Students learn how to teach a lesson from the pulpit and facilitate a discussion at a weekly discipleship course. Public speaking and pastoral care skills are exercised in these valuable training environments which are overseen by the Director and 3rd year apprentices. Our aim is to prepare students for real life ministry and we therefore put a strong emphasis on practical ministry to encourage spiritual growth and help develop character. These times of serving and leading help students discover their gifting and purpose and also prepare them for their second year mission trip which is a large part of the second year programme. The mission trip is a highlight of the second year for many. Ministry skills such as preaching, worship leading and serving the poor are put into practice on these trips. We also encourage students to continue ministering in their local church community and as far as possible partake of opportunities tailored to their ministry calling. 14
Modules Covered The Making of a Minister New Testament Survey The Laws of the Kingdom Ministry of Excellence Faith in a Supernatural God Acts - Power for Supernatural Living Answers to Important Questions Paul s Instruction to Timothy How to Get Along With People Leadership Lessons from Nehemiah Passion for the Harvest Pioneering Ministries 16hrs 16hrs 16hrs 16hrs 16hrs Attending CBC has provided space for the Word of God to freely minister to me. My life has been transformed by the renewing of my mind. Craig, First Year Student 15
Mission and Outreach Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Matthew 28:19 16 At CBC Belfast we believe that you are on mission as soon as you step out of the house each morning. Being mission focused is a lifestyle that we strive to make part of our culture. We aim to fulfill the great commission of our Lord both locally and to the farthest Nations throughout the world. Foreign Missions Each second year class takes part in an overseas mission trip. Students fundraise for this throughout the year with the help of CBC staff. The trip is an exciting opportunity to pour out in ministry what was learned in the Biblical Training Institute. Students begin to see themselves as ministers of the Gospel as they step out into new experiences and see the Kingdom of God released among them. The trip is a highlight for many as they learn how to communicate the Gospel in a different culture. Many discover their callings as they step out in faith to preach, pray for the sick, encourage and serve in practical ways. CBC Belfast work with trusted contacts in the wider CBC community to facilitate missions all over the world.
Discipleship Evangelism The college is open one evening a week for the whole community to come and learn God s Word, fellowship together and receive ministry for free. The course covers a series of 48 Bible subjects that are uniquely designed to bring the lost into the Kingdom of God, and help them mature in the body of Christ. Throughout the course local churches are recommended for further discipleship and ministry. This is a great learning environment for both first and second year students who get an opportunity to serve and lead. Many first year students choose this environment to do their practical ministry hours in welcome, set up, hospitality, cleaning and prayer. The second year students teach the course and work on a Rota basis to preach from the pulpit and then facilitate a discussion. Learning how to set up and run a discipleship course is vital training for future ministry and can be used for Bible studies, cell groups, the mission field, prison ministry and discipling friends and neighbours. The mission trip was a life changing experience for me. I got to preach my first sermon with a translator in the foothills of the Himalayas! Carol, CBC Graduate 17
Life at Charis Bible College Life at CBC Belfast is a rich environment of community, worship, prayer and outreach. Students and Staff form lasting friendships as they study and fellowship together. 18 A day at CBC Belfast begins with praise and devotion in an interactive worship space for all students and staff. Students are encouraged to lead this time and bring their own flavour of worship to the space. This environment provides great interaction between the year groups as they mentor and encourage each other. Between classes the break room is the hub of social activity in the college. Here lasting friendships are formed as stories are told and revelation is shared over tea and toast! Discipleship in the college doesn t just happen in the classroom, but continues during coffee breaks and in the worship space. There are often events held at the college which the students can be involved in. The Discipleship Evangelism course runs one evening a week, and many bring their neighbours or those friends who don t yet follow Jesus. Fundraisers and guest speakers also add to the community life of the college. Free time in the afternoon can be spent in Belfast City Centre as it is within walking distance of the college. There are many places to enjoy lunch or go for walks in the local parks when it is sunny.
As an international student, attending Bible college in Belfast has given me such a rich cultural experience in a safe learning environment. Frietzchemie, First Year Student 19
Studying in Belfast Once famous for its ship building, this historic city is now a vibrant hub of arts, culture, music and industry. It is fast becoming one of the most desirable and dynamic cities in Europe. 20 Transport The city has a compact layout, meaning most venues are within walking distance, however getting around is made even easier with a terrfic inner city bus network and trains and shuttles to major airports. Shopping Belfast City Centre has a thriving shopping district, inlcuding the recently completed Victoria Square complex. Just outside the city you will find two outlet malls in Antrim and Banbridge. Food & Recreation Belfast offers a great choice of restaurants, cafes and gastro pubs, providing a wide range of cuisines to cater to your tastes. The city also contains a number of cinemas, leisure centres and outdoor recreation facilities to keep you busy and entertained! At the heart of the Titanic Quarter lies the landmark Odyssey Arena and Pavilion, home of the Belfast Giants ice hockey team. The complex provides a mix of restaurants and entertainment, along with a 10,000 seater stadium.
The Outdoors Culture & Entertainment With a thriving cultural and arts programme, the city s Cathedral Quarter brings a wide range of galleries, exhibitions and readings to its historic cobbled streets. Belfast is home to a range of parks providing open grassy areas, floral displays and wildlife. For cyclists and walkers, the Lagan toepath journeys south along the river through meadows and woodland, while the Comber Greenway provides a traffic free green corridor to the east. In the West of the city lives the Gaeltacht Quarter, the centre of Irish language and culture, playing host to a lively culture of music, drama and the arts. The city also houses the historic Ulster Hall, dating back to 1862, the Waterfont Hall, and the Grand Opera House, each playing host to some of the greatest names in theatre and music. Further Afield The North Coast of Northern Ireland presents some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe, taking in countless sandy beaches, The Giant s Causeway, and Carrick-a- Rede Rope bridge. Heading South takes you to The Mourne Mountains, offering the same majestic views that provided inspiration for CS Lewis while writing the Chronicles of Narnia. 21
Applying to CBC Belfast We are excited that you are considering studying with us at CBC Belfast. Whether you are coming to prepare for full time ministry or just to learn more of God s Word, you are starting down a path that has the potential to change your life. The academic year runs from September to June in three terms. CBC Belfast also runs a night school that caters for those who work during the day. Students can enroll at any time by downloading an application form from our website. Alternatively you can contact the college to receive one in the post. Tel: 028 9045 3606 Email: office@cbcbelfast.org Web: www.cbcbelfast.org... For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. [Eph 4:12] 22
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