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Theological Education Fund

Theological Education in Myanmar: Current Challenges and the Need for Support

Myanmar is home to numerous seminaries, yet fewer than ten of them serve the Chinese community. In earlier years, though seminaries lacked adequate faculty, students, and resources compared to today, they nevertheless produced many faithful and resilient pastors. These pastors dedicated themselves wholeheartedly in rural towns and villages, faithfully fulfilling the mission entrusted to them by Christ.

Over time, however, theological education has undergone fundamental changes. In the past, seminaries offered training free of charge, and students faced relatively little financial burden. Today, in order to sustain their operations, seminaries have begun charging tuition fees. While understandable, this has created barriers for many who feel called to study but cannot afford the cost, preventing them from responding to God’s calling.

Moreover, in Myanmar most seminaries cannot provide salaries sufficient to sustain their teachers’ families. As a result, many instructors are unable to devote themselves fully to teaching, leading to a shortage of qualified faculty.

Another challenge is the inadequacy of the current theological education system. Many instructors were trained in earlier programs that emphasized practical ministry over in-depth theological reflection. Consequently, graduates often lack a comprehensive and systematic theological framework, limiting their ability to teach and guide others effectively. This situation sometimes leaves them vulnerable to extremes or even theological errors.

In light of these realities, since 2021 Myanmar Theological and Mission Resources has actively visited rural and mountainous regions across Myanmar, building connections with local churches and pastors, and supporting seminary students from diverse ethnic backgrounds. With assistance from local and overseas churches and friends, many students have been able to focus on their studies without undue financial worries. Yet, because this support remains inconsistent and short-term, the need for stable funding is urgent.

We therefore seek your partnership, both in prayer and financial support, to establish a Theological Education Fund. This fund will provide long-term and sustainable support for seminary students in Myanmar, enabling them to complete their theological training and be fully equipped for the ministry to which God has called them.