Program Philosophy

Many different approaches to ministry and leadership training have been used in our movement over the years. We appreciate all of these efforts and all who led in developing and teaching them. Much has been learned, including the need for developing more effective ways of providing such training.

Perhaps the biggest weakness encountered from an educational perspective has been the retention rate of material covered. The Seminar approach, complete with advance reading assignments, has been our main approach. All of us who have been involved in this approach as teachers or students can attest to the results at each end of the spectrum. It has been amazing how much can be learned in a short span, and equally amazing how quickly it can be forgotten!

Our approach in the Academy is going to be a new approach that incorporates elements of several types of learning situations into one. First, the teaching approach used will be more akin to that of a ministry training school than a Seminary. Both cover much the same material, but the former focuses more on the practical application of material than on the academic aspects of it. (We want our students to keep both feet firmly planted on the solid ground of church building instead of on the clouds of Academia!)

Second, advance assignments will broken down into several sections, each of which will include: reading from a primary book on the subject (trying to read too broadly in a short time contributes to the lack of retention); short research papers written; formal reviews of assigned material; guided group discussions; and tests taken on each section. All of this will be compounded by a three or four day seminar setting (depending on the subject) and a final cumulative exam.

FACULTY

Gordon Ferguson, who has experienced both types of training mentioned (ministry training school − Preston School of Preaching, and seminary − M.A. in New Testament Studies from Harding Graduate School of Religion), and has written several books, serves as the Dean of the Academy and does much of the teaching. Gordon is uniquely qualified to teach on a wide range of topics, having taught formally at minister training school; and served as evangelist, elder, and teacher at different times.

Other teachers have taught APLA courses as well:
• John Oakes, teacher, San Diego Church of Christ; professor, Grossmont College
BS, PhD (University of Colorado) – Apologetics, Letter to the Hebrews

• Bill Moulden, evangelist/teacher, Chicago Church of Christ
MA, DMin (Trinity Southwest University) – Research Tools for Preachers

• Rolan Monje, evangelist/teacher, Metro Manila Christian Church
BD (University of London), DMin (American Bible College) – Church History, Psalms

Other qualified teachers will be invited to join the faculty of APLA in the future.

PROGRAM ADMISSION

Members of the International Churches of Christ, constituent congregations in the Asia-Pacific regional group, and affiliated congregations may enroll. Our vision is to create both a family and an institution brimming with rich diversity, with people from various backgrounds, each with a love for God and ministry.

For now, the APLA considers the following as fair requirements for enrollment:

1. Good standing within the church community
2. At least three years of being a Christian*
3. At least a high school education**
4. The ability to read and write in English

The steering committee approves the list of enrollees for each trimester.

* Those spiritually younger than three years, yet have a strong Biblical background are welcome to apply. The steering committee will have to decide on the enrollment status and/or if certain reading requirements are to be completed first.
** For those who cannot meet this requirement, there will be special provisions available in the future.