In the Bible, the word shalom “is most commonly used to refer to a state of affairs, one of well-being, tranquility, prosperity, and security,” a perfect state of circumstances. “Shalom is a blessing, a manifestation of divine grace.” (click here) With this initiative, we are hoping to promote mental and emotional wellness among the Chinese immigrant community beginning with the Greater Vancouver Chinese immigrant churches.
So far, we have completed 2 surveys (click here)on the mental and emotional health of pastors, youth and youth adults in the Chinese immigrant churches in metro Vancouver.
Through this project, we hope to achieve 4 objectives:
Since about 10 years ago (2014), many Chinese have chosen to immigrate to Canada. The Chinese population has increased dramatically over the years, but there is a lack of seminaries with a Chinese cultural background to train Chinese pastors, so how can we collect the harvest if we don't have enough workers? Seeing the need for a broader harvest field, the establishment of Chinese pastoral training for Chinese pastors is a matter of great need. In response to this vision, the Association of Canadian Chinese Theological Education established the Canadian Chinese School of Theology (Vancouver) to provide theological training programs that are culturally appropriate for the Chinese.
Canadian Chinese School of Theology (CCST Vancouver) is a seminary with the mission of "To nurture God's servants and equip the laity.". Therefore, not only focusing on nurturing pastoral staff for ministry in the church, but we also invest a great deal of resources in equipping laity so that believers can glorify the Lord and benefit others in different roles.
Our vision is "Based on biblical truth, we provide relevant theological training to nurture God's servants to pass on ministry and mission, fulfilling Christ's commandment". Not only learning the truth and studying the Bible accurately, but we also emphasizing pastoral care and missions, striving to pass on the mission of Christ in its entirety, both academically and practically. The relationship between students and God is the foundation of everything. Therefore, CCST Vancouver has set up retreat days, retreat camps, weekly meetings, spiritual formation specialties, prayer specialties, and so on, so that students can have sufficient enlightenment in spirituality, understanding, and practice.
Studying at the CCST Vancouver is like living in a big family. Teachers and students often have meals together. Also, each student is placed in a care group to serve and intercede for each other, so that believers are not alone on the road of equipping. The Student Union organizes different activities for teachers and students to get together. Because we believe that to love and to build up the Body of Christ, we must first learn “how to love and to be loved” by the Lord and to care for one another as members.
Learning at CCST Vancouver is a blessed path. If you are interested in learning more about short-term or long-term courses, please visit the following website:
We look forward to seeing you at CCST Vancouver! Blessings!
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