mid america reformed seminary. 2014-2016

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12014-2016 Academic Catalog

2014-2016 Catalog


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Mid-America Reformed Seminary2014-2016 Catalog


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Table of Contents

Presidents Greeting ................................................................... 9About ..........................................................................................11 Purpose .................................................................................. 12 Doctrinal Position ................................................................. 12 Convictions ............................................................................ 13 Focus ...................................................................................... 13

Tasks ....................................................................................... 14 Relationship to the Church ................................................... 14 Location ................................................................................. 15Faculty ....................................................................................... 17

Adjunct Faculty .........................................................................23Administration ......................................................................... 26 Administration ..................................................................... 26 Sta ....................................................................................... 26

Board of Trustees ...................................................................27Academic Programs ................................................................. 29 Master of Divinity ................................................................. 29 Admission Requirements ................................................ 29 Graduation Requirements ................................................ 31 Comprehensives ................................................................ 31 Greek Language Studies ...................................................32 Course Sequence ...............................................................34

Master of Theological Studies ..............................................35 Admission Requirements .................................................35 Graduation Requirements ................................................36 Capstone Project ...............................................................37 Course Sequence ...............................................................38 Non-Degree Program ........................................................... 40 Non-Degree Student ........................................................ 40 Auditors ............................................................................ 40

Course Requirements by Degree Programs ........................ 42Ministerial Apprenticeship Program .......................................45 Program Description .............................................................45 Program Implentation ..........................................................47 MAP Credits .......................................................................... 51 Credit for Prior Work in Churches .......................................52

Academic Regulations ..............................................................53


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Accreditation .........................................................................53 Registration ...........................................................................53 Student Status and Course Load ......................................... 54 Dropping or Changing Courses ........................................... 54

Withdrawal from the Seminary ........................................... 54 Grading ..................................................................................55 Incomplete Grade Request Policy ........................................55 Academic Probation ............................................................. 56 Individual Studies Seminar.................................................. 56 Policy of Nondiscrimination................................................ 56 Accommodation for Disabilities...........................................57 Health Insurance ...................................................................57

Awards ....................................................................................57 Application Process .............................................................. 58Transfer Students ..................................................................... 59 Master of Divinity ................................................................. 60 Master of Theological Studies ............................................. 60International Students .............................................................61 English Language Skills ........................................................61 Finances ................................................................................. 61

Immunizations ..................................................................... 62Fellowship ..................................................................................63 Morning Chapel ....................................................................63 Special Lectures .................................................................... 64 Standards of Conduct .......................................................... 65 Community ........................................................................... 66 Seminary Womens Fellowship ............................................ 67 Housing ................................................................................. 67

Finances .................................................................................... 69 Tuition Rates and Fees ......................................................... 69 Payment Options..................................................................69 Refunds ................................................................................. 70 Financial Aid ......................................................................... 70 Employment .......................................................................... 71 Scholarships ........................................................................... 71Resouces ....................................................................................75

Library ....................................................................................75 Bookstore ...............................................................................75 Publications .......................................................................... 76Curriculum ................................................................................77 Biblical Studies ..................................................................... 78 Ecclesiastical Studies ........................................................... 84


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Doctrinal Studies .................................................................. 87 Ministerial Studies ............................................................... 92Course Sequence ...................................................................... 97

Area Map ................................................................................. 100

Calendar ...................................................................................101Index......... ............................................................................... 102


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8 Mid-America Reformed Seminary


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9Presidents Greeting

Dear Friends,Greetings from the faculty, students, and administrative sta of Mid-America Reformed Seminary! By means of this catalog, we want tointroduce ourselves to you and provide some basic information aboutour programs of study and our mission as a seminary.

At Mid-America Reformed Seminary, we are wholeheartedlycommitted to the truthfulness of the Word of God and the biblicalriches of the Reformation confessions. The primary mission of Mid-America is to provide the best possible training to prepare men forthe ministry of the Word and sacraments in churches disposed tocall men trained in the Reformed faith.

Our curriculum stresses the classical disciplines of original languagestudy, exegesis, doctrinal studies, the history of the church, andpastoral theology. Only as students are equipped to open up andapply the riches of Gods Word to all of life will they be able to equipGods people for service. In order to fulll our purpose to train ourstudents for the gospel ministry, we have designed our curriculumand Ministerial Apprenticeship Program to ensure that they haveample opportunities to cultivate their gifts.

If you would like to know more about us, please call or email us forfurther information. Better yet, please visit our beautiful campus,which is located in the southeast Chicagoland area. By visitingwith professors, attending classes, conversing with students, andworshiping in chapel, you will experience rst-hand the communitywhich is Mid-America Reformed Seminary.

Cordially in Christ,

Cornelis P. Venema, Ph.D.President, Mid-America Reformed Seminary

Presidents Greeting

PresidentsGreeting


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11About

Welcome to the academic catalog of Mid-America ReformedSeminary! Consider this your guided tour to the Seminary aswell as its community, leadership, programs, and resources. Tefaculty and staff of Mid-America invite you to visit and personallyexperience the academic excellence and community fellowshipavailable at Mid-America Reformed Seminary.

Mid-America Reformed Seminary seeks to serve Christ and hischurch by assisting in the formation and preparation of servantsfor the Kingdom of God. Centrally located in the Chicago area,Mid-America benefits from the conveniences and resources of amajor metropolitan area while also enjoying the tranquility of asuburban setting.

Above all, the Seminary is unashamedly committed to beingdistinctively Reformed. While Mid-Americas theologicalperspective is firmly rooted in the historic truths of the Reformedfaith, instructors do not avoid acquainting students withcontemporary issues, seeking to be both faithful and relevant.Te instructors thorough knowledge of Reformation history andthought, in fact, is the solid ground that anchors discussion andnurtures development of a mature understanding of the historic

Reformed faith as lived out in contemporary cultures.

Within this solidly Reformed environment, Mid-Americasprimary purpose is to train men for the gospel ministry of JesusChrist. Guided by this focus, Mid-America is also committed toproviding solid theological and ministerial training for ministry toothers among Gods people whose life calling may be enhanced byour education. Te Mid-America student will enjoy the curricular

concentration arising from the schools primary focus, whilealso being shaped by the personal diversity that comes with aneducation that meets a variety of service goals. At Mid-AmericaReformed Seminary, students will enjoy this unique integration ofparticular focus and diverse application.

About

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PURPOSEMid-Americas mission is to prepare pastors as faithful servantsof the Word and sacraments in the heritage of Reformed andPresbyterian churches and to train others to serve in various

Christian venues.

Mid-Americas curriculum is calculated to assist in the intellectualand spiritual development of our students. We believe a thoroughknowledge of, and submission to Gods Word, coupled with asolid grounding in its essential doctrines, is requisite to a God-glorifying and fruitful ministry.

Mid-America Reformed Seminary seeks to glorify God by traininggodly men to serve in the ministry of the Word and sacraments.Te health of the church and society depends upon the faithfulministry of the Word of God. Te primary purpose of the Seminaryis to prepare men for the ministry of the Word and sacramentsin churches that are disposed to call and ordain men trained inthe Reformed faith as confessed in the Heidelberg Catechism,the Belgic Confession, the Canons of Dort, and the Westminster

Standards.

Knowledge and compassion are equally important in the ministryof a pastor. o foster intellectual and spiritual development, theseminary offers courses in biblical, theological, ecclesiastical,and ministerial disciplines. But knowledge is not enough toreach effectively our neighbors and the nations with the gospel.

A solid grounding in essential biblical doctrines must always be

accompanied by humble submission to Gods Word. Both areindispensable elements of a servant-ministry that glorifies God.

DOCTRINAL POSITIONAll members of the faculty, the Association, and the Boardare wholeheartedly committed to the Holy Scriptures as theinfallible and inerrant Word of God and affirm that the ReformedConfessions faithfully set forth the system of truth taught inScripture. In conformity with the Word, they are committed to theecumenical creeds of Christendom (the Apostles, Athanasian, andNicene Creeds) and to the following Reformation Confessions: theBelgic Confession, the Heidelberg Catechism, the Canons of Dort,and the Westminster Confession of Faith.


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13About

CONVICTIONSWe place primary emphasis on the high calling of preaching thegospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Mid-America self-consciouslystresses the ministry of Christ through the appointed means:

the faithful ministry of the Word and sacraments. Christianfellowship and interpersonal relationships are importantfeatures of a healthy congregation; however, the vitality of thechurch is rooted in the faithful proclamation of the gospel. Tisis the principal means of grace for the conversion of sinners andthe edification of saints.

We are also convinced that principles must guide practice and that

study must translate into service. With this secondary emphasisin mind, the Seminary provides hands-on pastoral experience toeach ministerial student. Troughout an M.Div. students entireseminary career, he participates in Mid-Americas comprehensiveMinisterial Apprenticeship Program (see page 47.)

FOCUSTese convictions form Mid-Americas curricular focus and shapethe students training. We believe faithfulness to the gospel requiresthat a seminary prepare its ministerial students to proclaim thatgospel fearlessly and faithfully. Tis preparation must include allaspects of preaching, from sound biblical exegesis to effective pulpitstyle. Tis preparation is the focus of all courses taught at the school,not something covered in just a few preaching classes.

Our focus on revitalizing the pulpit does not permit us to ignoreeither our confessional heritage or contemporary issues. We believethat ministerial students must be well versed in the history anddoctrinal developments of the church throughout the centuries,including a thorough knowledge of the breadth and diversity ofReformed thinking. Continental, British, and North AmericanReformed thought all deserve in-depth analysis and study.In addition, we believe that our students must be trained toperceive the pervasive worldviews that shape our world. Tisrequires a familiarity with the philosophies of the Western worldand an awareness of how those philosophies penetrate and affectthe church of Christ. Te many varieties of modern theologyalso require close scrutiny so that students are prepared both toembrace fresh insight into the gospel and to sound the clear and


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ringing tones of the gospel amid the din of competing counterfeits.

Tis sharpness of focus and breadth of training are notcontradictory. Faithful and useful seminary training requires each

for a healthy balance. A seminary education without this balancerisks falling into one of two extremes: a lack of breadth bogs onedown in the quagmire of legalism or traditionalsim, while a lackof focus opens the floodgates of progressivism or modernism. Weare committed to a balance of focus and breadth for the sake of thekingdom of God.

TASKSSince our primary task is to train men to be ministers of the Wordand sacraments, we believe that all other pastoral duties flow fromthis central focus on the preaching of the Word, we aim to equip menfor the ordained ministry as pastors and teachers who effectivelyshepherd the flock of God.

Mid-Americas Board of rustees (which governs the Seminary)and its faculty believe that the biblical content and confessionalcommitment of the curriculum can also benefit non-ordainedteachers and church leaders for the coming generations both inthe Master of Teological Studies degree program and for thosewho are not pursuing an academic degree. We are, therefore,committed to maintaining the curriculums distinctive focus andcontent, while welcoming those who seek training in Reformedtheology for service in Christian education or church instruction.

From the Seminarys beginning, we have sought to makeinstruction available for the broader church public. Mid-

America regularly provides evening classes designed tobe profitable for church members, lay leaders, and Bibleteachers. Faculty members provide seminars, workshops, andfield training for a variety of educational and church groups.

RELATIONSHIP TO THE CHURCHAs an academic institution, whose primary activity is preparing menfor the ministry of the gospel, Mid-America Reformed Seminaryimplements its vision for the pastorate within a variety of churchcommunions. Te school is closely associated with confessionallyReformed and Presbyterian churches, though not governed by anyparticular denomination. Tis circumstance enables the Seminary


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15About

to serve effectively various church communions with soundministerial training. Mid-Americas confessional commitmentpermits genuine theological vigor.

Students seeking ordination in a particular denomination mustcoordinate their study at Mid-America Reformed Seminary withthat denominations eligibility requirements for ministerialcandidacy. Although Reformed and Presbyterian church politydictates that these requirements be applied by a classis orpresbytery, some churches grant oversight to a denominationalcommittee or board. Some affiliations require additional studybeyond Mid-Americas stipulations for the Master of Divinity

degree. Te Seminary makes every effort to incorporate theseadditional courses and practical exercises into the curriculum,so that students can maximize their study in the M.Div. degreeprogram. Te Ministerial Apprenticeship Program can be creativelyshaped to meet the requirements of the M.Div. degree programand the students church.

While Mid-America believes that faculty should be involved in

a students spiritual development and formation, the Seminarysupports the biblical principle that candidates for office inChrists church should be supervised, examined, and approved byofficebearers of the governing bodies in their respective churches.

LOCATIONMid-America, located in Dyer, Indiana, is in the greater Chicagoarea. Te campus, just miles south of US Interstate 80-94, iseasily accessible from anywhere in the Chicago area. It is aboutforty-five minutes from downtown Chicago and Midway Airportand an hour from OHare International Airport. Our centralizedlocation offers countless opportunities for recreation, study, andemployment.

Chicago is the third largest city in the U.S. and is home to anumber of historical sites and cultural events such as the Willisower, Navy Pier, the aste of Chicago, and the Chicago SymphonyOrchestra. Additionally, the city offers a number of museums,theaters, galleries, concerts, and sporting venues.

Primarily a residential community in Northwest Indiana, witheasy access to surrounding suburbs and the city of Chicago, Dyer


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has many opportunities for recreation, shopping, and more. Dyerand nearby towns are home to many Reformed and Presbyterianchurches, who have close relationships with the Seminary.

Affordable housing for students and their families is availablein the many rural and suburban communities surrounding theSeminary. A church home is also easily found within one of manyconfessionally Reformed, Presbyterian, or other evangelicalchurches in the area. Tese congregations are quick to welcomeMid-America students and their families into their fellowships.

Te Seminarys thirty-acre campus features an attractive and

practical 17,000 square foot facility with classrooms, offices,chapel, library, cafeteria, and student lounge.


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17Faculty

Students and alumni of Mid-America Reformed Seminaryconsistently rate their relationships with the professors as oneof the Seminarys greatest benets. Each faculty member hasthe scholarship expertise and pastoral experience that providea comprehensive and integrated theological education.

Additionally, the professors at Mid-America take a personal

interest in each student and consistently maintain a mentoringperspective. The professors strive for the formation of eachstudent as a child of God and equipped to serve the Lord in thelife of Christs church.

Part of the Professorss mentoring process includes personalcounseling, as well as small group fellowship. Each student hasa faculty advisor, who functions as the students counselor. The

Registrar, who serves as the Dean of Students, also takes anappropriate and active interest in student concerns related toacademic and personal concerns.

Faculty members are available to assist students with personaland academic concerns. Faculty advisors provide counsel tostudents relative to their academic work, spiritual life/personalsituation, and eldwork. On Thursday mornings, faculty and

advisors meet with the students who have been assigned totheir care for a time of mentoring and prayer.

Faculty

Faculty


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With many years in the pastorate, Dr. Beach brings an abundanceof practical experience to the classroom. He had two pastoratesbefore coming to the Seminary. Dr. Beach earned his Ph.D. inReformation and Post-Reformation Reformed Theology. Heapplies these studies to the two academic disciplines in whichhe principally labors, namely, ministerial and doctrinal studies.He believes that Reformed and Presbyterian churches greatlybenet from exploring and rediscovering the rich heritage of theReformed tradition. He also believes the churchs proclamationof the gospel must be contemporary, as pastors study theScriptures and address the challenges and needs of our times ina direct manner. Dr. Beach regularly preaches in area churches,has written study materials for youths and adults, translateda book on baptism, as well as being the author of numerousscholarly articles. He has published a major work on FrancisTurretins theology of the covenant and recently published abook on Calvins Institutes. Dr. Beach is the managing editorof and frequent contributor to the Mid-America Journal ofTheology.

DR. J. MARK BEACHProfessor of Ministerial and Doctrinal StudiesFaculty Secretary

A.B. / Dordt College / 1981M.Div. / Calvin Theological Seminary / 1984Th.M. / Calvin Theological Seminary / 1994Ph.D. / Calvin Theological Seminary / 2005


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19Faculty

Professor Mininger is an ordained minister of the OrthodoxPresbyterian Church, the church in which he was born andraised and in which his father is also a lifelong minister. Hepresently serves the OPCs Presbytery of the Midwest byhelping examine candidates for licensure to preach. He has alsoenjoyed preaching and teaching at many Reformed churchesacross the country.

Professor Mininger received his B.A. from Covenant College(GA), his M.Div. from Westminster Theological Seminary(PA), and his Th.M. from Princeton Theological Seminary (NJ).He is also nishing his doctoral dissertation at WestminsterTheological Seminary on the theme of revelation in Romans1:16-3:26. In the past, he has taught courses at PrincetonTheological Seminary, St. Josephs University (PA), and

Westminster Theological Seminary. He has delivered papersat various scholarly conferences and contributed articles toperiodicals such as the Princeton Seminary Bulletin, Koinonia,andNew Horizons. Recently, he was appointed as a co-editor ofthe Mid-America Journal of Theology. He is also a member of

the Evangelical Theological Society and the Society of BiblicalLiterature.

THE REV. MARCUS MININGERAssistant Professor of New Testament Studies

B.A. / Covenant College / 1998M.Div. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 2002Th.M. / Princeton Theological Seminary / 2009Ph.D. Candidate / Westminster Theological Seminary


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Dr. Strange served Providence Orthodox Presbyterian Church inGlassboro, New Jersey for over nine years before coming to Mid-

America. He is an associate pastor at New Covenant CommunityChurch (OPC) in New Lenox, Illinois, frequently preaching thereor speaking in other church and conference settings throughoutNorth America. He is active in the Presbytery of the Midwestand serves on or chairs various OPC committees, including the

Committee on Appeals and Complaints, the Psalter-HymnalSpecial Committee, the Committee on Christian Educationand the Board of Trustees of Great Commission Publications.He served as chairman of the Committee on Creation Viewsand as vice-chairman of the Justication Committee, producingsubstantial reports for both of those study committees. Heteaches the course for the Ministerial Training Institute of theOPC on the Form of Government and has written extensively on

church polity. He also served as the Moderator of the 75th OPCGeneral Assembly (2008).

Dr. Strange has published historical works for use in Christianeducation and home schooling, as well as articles andreviews on church history, including the history of AmericanPresbyterianism. He has been a frequent contributor to theOPC denominational magazineNew Horizons and to the Mid-

America Journal of Theology. He has also written for and servesas a contributing editor to The Confessional Presbyterian. Heis a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and the

American Society of Church History.

DR. ALAN D. STRANGEProfessor of Church HistoryRegistrarTheological Librarian

B.A. / Centenary College / 1984M.A. / College of William and Mary / 1986M.Div. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1989Ph.D. / University of Wales / 2014


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21Faculty

Professor Vander Hart pastored the Christian ReformedChurch of La Glace-Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada, from 1980to 1983. He continues to take an active interest in the life of thelocal church as well as the international church. He frequentlypreaches in local congregations and leads Bible studies forseveral church societies. He has written several Bible studies;Genesis 1-11, Jacob (Genesis 25-49), andJoseph & Judah. Professor

Vander Hart has also ministered to the international Reformedcommunity, teaching within Southeast Asian populations in theUnited States as well as teaching in Cyprus, Ukraine, Myanmar,Latvia, India, and Armenia. He is a member of the followingmissions committees: Reformed Faith & Life (Armenian andFrench), Christ for Myanmar Mission Committee, and theInternational Theological Education Ministries, Inc. (ITEM).

Professor Vander Hart has contributed articles for the Mid-America Journal of Theology, The Outlook, Christian Renewal,and Biblical Horizons. He is a member of the Society for BiblicalLiterature, the Evangelical Theological Society, the CalvinStudies Society, and the National Association of Professors ofHebrew.

THE REV. MARK D. VANDER HARTAssociate Professor of Old Testament StudiesMinisterial Apprenticeship Program Director

A.B. / Dordt College / 1975M.Div. / Calvin Theological Seminary / 1980Th.M. / Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher

Education / 2001


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DR. CORNELIS P. VENEMAProfessor of Doctrinal StudiesPresident

A.B. / Dordt College / 1975B.D. / Calvin Theological Seminary / 1978Ph.D. / Princeton Theological Seminary / 1985

While studying at Princeton Theological Seminary from 1979-1981, Dr. Venema was a Teaching Fellow in the Departmentof Theology. He served as pastor of the Christian ReformedChurch of Ontario, California, for six years before coming toMid-America.Dr. Venema serves as President of the Seminary in additionto his systematic theology teaching responsibilities. He hasserved as an elder in his church and preaches on a regular basis.Dr. Venema also speaks and teaches in a variety of church andconference settings.His special interest lies in Reformation theology, particularlythe work of the Reformers John Calvin and Heinrich Bullinger.Dr. Venemas books, Heinrich Bullinger and the Doctrine ofPredestination: Author of The Other Reformed Tradition?and

Accepted and Renewed in Christ: The Twofold Grace of Godand the Interpretation of Calvins Theology, reect this interest.He is the author of several other books including But for theGrace of God: An Exposition of the Canons of Dort; What WeBelieve: An Exposition of the Apostles Creed; The Promise of theFuture; Getting the Gospel Right; Children at the Lords Table?,Christ and the Future, The Promise of the Future Study Guide,and The Gospel of Free Acceptance in Christ. Dr. Venema is aco-editor and frequent contributor to The Outlook and the

Mid-America Journal of Theology.


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23Adjunct Faculty

THE REV. VALENTIN ALPUCHEEvangelism

B.Th. / Juan Calvino / 1998M. Div. / Mid-America Reformed Seminary / 2007

THE REV. ALBERT BEZUYENChurch Education

B.A. / Calvin College / 1987B.Ed. / Calvin College / 1989M. Div. / Mid-America Reformed Seminary / 1996M.A. Candidate / MacMaster Divinity School

THE REV. GREG BYLSMAMinisterial Studies

B.A. / Redeemer University College / 2001M. Div. / Mid-America Reformed Seminary / 2005

MR. PAUL S. CABLEGreek Language Studies

B.A. / The University of Georgia / 2006

M. Div. / The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary / 2011Ph.D. Candidate / Wheaton College

DR. RICHARD GAFFINNew Testament Studies

B.A. / Calvin College / 1958B.D. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1961Th.M. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1962

Th.D. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1969Graduate Studies / Georg-August Universitt, Gttingen / 1962-63

Adjunct Faculty

AdjunctFaculty


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THE REV. DANIEL HYDEMinisterial Studies

B.A. / Vanguard University of Southern California / 1997M.Div. / Westminster Seminary California / 2000Th.M. / Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary / 2010

THE REV. PAUL IPEMAMinisterial Studies

A.B. / Dordt College / 1989M.Div. / Mid-America Reformed Seminary / 1992

DR. NELSON D. KLOOSTERMANEthics

A.B. / Calvin College / 1972B.D. / Calvin Theological Seminary / 1975Th.Drs. / Theological University of the Reformed Churches

(Liberated) in the Netherlands / 1983

Th.D. / Theological University of the Reformed Churches(Liberated) in the Netherlands / 1991

DR. GEORGE KNIGHT IIINew Testament Studies

B.A. / Davidson College / 1953B.D. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1956Th.M. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1957Th.D. / Free University of Amsterdam / 1968

THE REV. BASSAM MADANYIslamic Studies

R.P.C. / Syria / 1953M.B. / Winnepeg / 1955M.B. / British Foreign Bible Society / 1956

THE REV. JOHN W. MALLINMinisterial Studies

B.S. / Bloomsburg State College / 1969M.Div. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1980


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25Adjunct Faculty

THE REV. DANNY PATTERSONMinisterial Studies

B.A. / Covenant College / 1999M. Div. / Mid-America Reformed Seminary / 2002

MR. NICHOLAS G. PIOTROWSKIGreek Language Studies

M.D. / Salisbury State University / 1999M.S. / Reformed Theological Seminary / 2003

Ph.D. / Wheaton College / 2013

THE REV. JACQUES ROETSEthics

B.A. / Potchefstroom University / 1993H.B.A. / Potchefstroom University / 1994M.A. / Potchefstroom University / 1997M.Div. / Mid-America Reformed Seminary / 2001

DR. A. CRAIG TROXELMinisterial Studies

B.A. / Anderson University / 1984M.A.T.S / Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary / 1990Ph.D. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1998

DR. PETER J. WALLACEChurch History

B.A. / Wheaton College / 1993M.Div. / Westminster Theological Seminary / 1996Ph.D. / University of Notre Dame / 2004


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Mid-Americas administration is dedicated to supporting thework of students for ministry within the nurturing fellowship ofthe Seminary community. Leadership roles and responsibilitiesare carefully balanced among the Seminarys governing board,administration, faculty, and sta.

Mid-America is blessed with many supportive churches froma variety of denominations and locations. The supportingconstituency is well represented in the Seminarys governingBoard of Trustees. Under the oversight of the Board of Trustees,the Seminary President performs the daily administration ofthe Seminary assisted by the faculty, Director of Development,Oce Manager, and other sta.

ADMINISTRATIONPresident - Dr. Cornelis P. VenemaFaculty Secretary - Dr. J. Mark BeachRegistrar - Dr. Alan D. StrangeMinisterial Apprenticeship Program Director - Rev. Mark D.

Vander HartTheological Librarian - Dr. Alan D. StrangeDean of Students - Dr. Alan D. Strange

Director of Institutional Assessment - Rev. Marcus MiningerVice-President for Advancement - Keith LeMahieuOce Manager - Florence Kooiman

STAFFAssociate Librarian - Bart VoskuilAdministrative Secretary - Tracy DopkowskiStudent Recruiter - Grant Dykstra

Financial Ocer - Grant DykstraAdministrative Secretary of Media and Publications - Rachel

Luttjeboer

Administration


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27Administration

BOARD OF TRUSTEESMr. Peter Bultema: Redeemer United Reformed Church, St.

John, IndianaMr. Scott DeJong: Bethel United Reformed Church, Alymer,

OntarioRev. Adrian Dieleman: Trinity United Reformed Church,

Visalia, CaliforniaMr. Doug Disselkoen: Faith United Reformed Church, Beecher,

IllinoisRev. John Hilbelink:Providence Orthodox Presbyterian

Church, Rockford, IllinoisMr. Jack Huizinga: Providence United Reformed Church,

Watford, OntarioMr. Harlyn Jacobsma: Redeemer United Reformed Church,

Orange City, IowaMr. Tom Kooienga: Bethany United Reformed Church,

Wyoming, MichiganRev. Kim Kuhfuss: Covenant Presbyterian Church (OPC),

Stillwater, MinnesotaRev. Richard Kuiken:Pompton Plains Reformed Bible Church

(URC), Pompton Plains, New JerseyRev. Ed Marcusse: Immanuels United Reformed Church,

Salem, OregonRev. William Pols: Orthodox Reformed Church (URC),

Edmonton, AlbertaRev. James Sawtelle: Reformed Church (RCUS), Minneapolis,

MinnesotaMr. Ben Sybesma:Zion United Reformed Church, Ripon,

CaliforniaRev. Henry Van Olst: Rehoboth United Reformed Church, Mt.

Hope, OntarioMr. Ron Verburg: Oak Glen United Reformed Church, Lansing,

IllinoisDr. Steve Werkema: Bethel Orthodox Presbyterian Church,

Wheaton, Illinois

Administration


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29Academic Programs

Mid-America Reformed Seminary oers two degree programs:the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and the Master of TheologicalStudies (M.T.S.). Because Mid-America focuses on preparingstudents for the gospel ministry, the primary degree programoered at Mid-America is the Master of Divinity degreeprogram.

A student not enrolled in either the Master of Divinity programor the Master of Theological Studies program is classied as aNon-Degree Student and is not required to meet entrance andcourse prerequisites.

MASTER OF DIVINITY

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree program is designed toprepare students for the ordained gospel ministry as pastors,chaplains, missionaries, and evangelists. The health of thechurch depends upon the faithful ministry of the Word ofGod. The Master of Divinity degree is designed to train mento serve the church as knowledgeable pastors with servantshearts. Because the Seminary Board and faculty believe that

Scripture limits the roles of ocial teaching and leadershipin the church to qualied men, only men are admitted to theMaster of Divinity program. Both men and women are able toenroll in the Master of Theological Studies program.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSTo qualify for admission to the Master of Divinity programthe applicant must be a dedicated Christian who has earned

a Bachelor of Arts degree or its equivalent, with a grade pointaverage of 2.67 (B-) or higher. Applicants who fall below thisaverage may be admitted, but the Registrar will review theirseminary academic work on a regular basis. Applicants withoutBachelor of Arts degrees are evaluated on an individual basis.

In preparation for theological study, the following majors are

Academic Programs

Acad

emicPrograms


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deemed particularly valuable: classical languages, English,history, and philosophy. Two years or four courses of ancientGreek, or their equivalent, is benecial, prior to beginningseminary studies, and students are encouraged to study New

Testament Greek as part of their program of college courses.The Seminary does, however, provide the necessary courses inNew Testament Greek for students who have not completed theGreek sequence. (Four courses in ancient and New TestamentGreek is a prerequisite for obtaining the M.Div. degree, seepage 80.)

Courses in the following areas are recommended: courses in

the humanities, including two semester length courses eachin English (including grammar and composition), history(including classical history), and philosophy (including asurvey of ancient philosophy and modern philosophy); two

years (four courses) of Greek; two courses in natural science;two courses in social science; two courses in public speaking.

Mid-America recognizes that an increasing numbers of students

are seeking the Master of Divinity degree after spendingsome time in the work force. These students or second careerstudents may not have followed a traditional pre-seminarytrack of college education and may need special instruction tobetter prepare themselves for seminary study. The Seminary

works closely with students to assist them for this purpose.

A limited number of students who have not earned the B.A.

degree, but whose life experience suggests that they would besuitable M.Div. students, may apply for the M.Div. program.The following courses are strongly recommended for such non-B.A. degree students: two college-level English courses, one of

which must include grammar and composition; two college-level history courses, one of which must include classicalhistory; two college-level philosophy courses, one of whichmust provide a survey of ancient philosophy; and four college-

level courses, which should be biblical or Koin Greek courses.

If a students performance in the academic areas speciedabove has been decient, either in course selections or grades,the faculty may require additional work. This will be done inconsultation between the student and the faculty.


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31Academic Programs

A students transcript will be evaluated on its own merits.Competency examinations may be oered to those who havecovered certain areas of theological study in their college work.For more information on the application process, see page 60.

This process should be completed before May 1 of the rst yearof study.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTSA student must possess a cumulative grade point average of2.67 (B-) or higher over the course of the seminary programto receive the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree. The totalnumber of semester hours required for the degree is 101, in

addition to which ten credit hours are given for completingwork satisfactorily in the Ministerial Apprenticeship Program.

No student, however, may take more than eighteen academichours a semester without permission from the Registrar.

Before graduating, a student must meet all nancial obligationsto the Seminary or make suitable arrangements to meet them.

No transcripts will be sent until nancial obligations have beenmet.

COMPREHENSIVESIn addition to fullling course and MAP requirements, a studentseeking the Master of Divinity degree must sustain a writtencomprehensive examination in bible knowledge as well as anoral comprehensive examination conducted by members of the

faculty to determine the students competency in theology.

Title Type Time Bible Knowledge Written Junior year Comprehensive Exam Oral Senior year

The bible knowledge examination tests a students ability to workwith biblical data. In a multiple-choice format, it determines thestudents knowledge of some detailed and specic informationabout biblical texts, geography, backgrounds, and people.

The oral comprehensive examination is devoted largely totheology and confessional knowledge, with the other elds(biblical, historical, minsterial, and apologetical) ancillary to


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and supportive of the theology questions.

While the examination is aimed at determining academiccompetency, the experience helps prepare the student for oral

examinations regarding his theological orthodoxy that will beconducted by his classis or presbytery before he is permitted toenter the ministry.

After students have completed 68 or more hours of academicstudy, they will ordinarily be eligible to take the oral theologicalexam.

GREEK LANGUAGE STUDIESThe Greek language requirements at Mid-America entailcompetency in: 1) basic Greek grammar as covered in astandard textbook, such as J. G. Machens New TestamentGreek for Beginnersor W. D. Mounces Basics of Biblical Greek;2) intermediate Greek grammar and syntax like that coveredin D. Wallaces Greek Grammar Beyond the Basicsor Richard

Youngs Intermediate New Testament Greek; 3) knowledge of

vocabulary occurring 15 times or more in the New Testament,and; 4) reading and analyzing the Greek of the New Testament.

This requirement can be satised in one of several ways: 1)through taking Greek courses at Mid-America, described furtherbelow; 2) through taking courses at another institution thatare deemed by the Registrar to cover the areas of competencydescribed above; or 3) through demonstrating competencyin the areas described above by taking a Greek placementexam from Mid-America. Students may satisfy some or all ofthe Greek requirements through the Greek placement exam,depending on their performance. The ordinary deadline fortaking the Greek Placement Exam is June 1, so that arrangementsfor Summer Greek can be made as necessary. Arrangements totake the placement exam are scheduled through the Registrarsoce.

The Seminary provides four courses of instruction in ancient(Koin) Greek for those who have not previously takenGreek: Greek 101, 102, 201, and 202. Greek 101-102 are oeredas intensive courses during the summer. These classes meetseveral hours per day for approximately seven weeks (see the


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33Academic Programs

appropriate Academic Calendar for the specic dates in a givenacademic year). Greek 201 and 202 are oered in traditional,non-intensive format during the Fall and Spring semesters,respectively.


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OT 113 Basic Hebrew

NT 113 Introduction to New TestamentCH 112 Ancient Church History

AS 112 Introduction to ApologeticsDD 112 Theological FoundationsPS 114 Homiletics and CatecheticsOT 122 Advanced HebrewOT 133 Hebrew Reading, Text-Criticism, & CanonBD 133 Biblical HermeneuticsDS 133 Theology Proper (The Doctrine of God)PS 132 Public Worship

PS 133 Pastoral Care and CounselingPP 131 Applied SermonTotal Course Hours: 33

OT 214 Interp. of the Revelation before the MonarchyMO 211 Preaching from Revelation before the MonarchyNT 213 Interp. of the Gospels and ActsMN 211 Preaching from the Gospels and ActsDS 212 Anthropology (The Doctrine of Humanity)DS 213 ChristologyElectiveElectiveOT 233 Interp. of Revelation in the Period of the MonarchyMO 231 Preaching from Revelation in the Period of the MonarchyNT 233 Interp. of the Pauline EpistlesMN 231 Preaching from the Pauline EpistlesCH 234 Medieval and Reformation ChurchDS 233 PneumatologyPS 232 Applied Pastoral CounselingTotal Course Hours: 35

OT 313 Interp. of Revelation in the Exilic/Post-Exilic PeriodsMO 311 Preaching from Revelation in the Exilic & Post-Exilic Periods

AS 313 Applied ApologeticsES 313 Christian EthicsDS 313 EcclesiologyPS 313 Missions and EvangelismElectiveNT 333 Interp. of the General Epistles and RevelationMN 331 Preaching from the General Epistles and RevelationED 333 Denominational Hist/Government

CH 334 Modern Church HistoryDS 332 EschatologyPP 331 Catechism SermonElectiveTotal Course Hours: 34

Fall Interim Spring

2

2

2

2

2

2

3

32224

16

4131232

16

313333

16

3332

3115

3131432

17

313

4212

16

JUNIORYEAR

MIDDLERYEAR

SENIORYEAR

MASTER OF DIVINITYCOURSE SEQUENCE

Total Hours: 102


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35Academic Programs

MASTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) degree programis a two-year program for students who desire theological

education but do not seek ordination. The purpose of theM.T.S. degree is to prepare students for further graduate studyor to impart theological knowledge that may serve to enhancetraining received in other elds. For example, church leaders(who may serve as elders, deacons, Bible study leaders, orchurch education teachers), Christian school teachers, andothers serving in Christian ministry may wish to complementtheir training and experience with graduate-level theological

education.

The M.T.S. program consists of the same rigorous academicwork as the M.Div. program, but without the requirementsassociated with preaching and ministerial studies. The M.T.S.program oers exibility by allowing students to concentratein one of two areas: biblical studies or doctrinal/ecclesiasticalstudies.

The biblical studies concentration provides a thoroughacquaintance with Hebrew and Greek language study, together

with in-depth study of the canon, history, and interpretation ofboth Old and New Testaments. The concentration is lled out

with course work in the ecclesiastical and doctrinal divisions ofthe curriculum.

The doctrinal/ecclesiastical concentration includes biblicallanguage courses (Hebrew and Greek) and emphasizessystematic theology, church history, and apologetics.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSThe applicant for the M.T.S. program must be a dedicatedChristian who has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree or itsequivalent with a cumulative grade point average of 2.67 (B-) orhigher. Pre-seminary education should ordinarily include workin English (including grammar and composition), philosophy(including a survey of ancient philosophy), natural sciences (2courses), and social sciences (2 courses). An applicant whoseacademic history shows insucient breadth in the liberalarts may be requested to do additional work as a condition of


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admission. For more information on the application process,see page 60. This process should be completed before May 1 ofthe rst year of study.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTSA student must possess a cumulative grade point average of2.67 (B-) or higher over the course of the Seminary program toreceive the Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) degree. Inorder to obtain the M.T.S. degree, the total number of semesterhours is 65.

The biblical studies concentration requires the following

courses:

All courses in the Biblical Studies division 28 hours Biblical language courses 15 hours Doctrinal and Ecclesiastical divisions courses 18 hours One elective 2 hours Capstone project 2 hours TOTAL: 65 hours

The doctrinal/ecclesiastical concentration requires thefollowing courses:

All courses in the Doc./Ecc. division 39 hours Biblical language courses 15 hours Biblical Studies divisions courses 9 hours Capstone project 2 hours

TOTAL: 65 hours

Before graduating, a student must meet all nancial obligationsto the Seminary or make suitable arrangements to meet them.No transcripts will be sent until nancial obligations have beenmet.

A student must pass the Bible Knowledge examination during

the rst year of study. This written exam tests a studentsability to work with biblical data. In a multiple-choice format,it determines the students knowledge of some detailedand specic information about biblical texts, geography,backgrounds, and people.


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37Academic Programs

M.T.S. students must also successfully complete the CapstoneProject.

CAPSTONE PROJECT

The capstone project is the culminating exercise for the Masterof Theological Studies degree at Mid-America. This projectincludes applied research or action research that draws fromformal study and professional and personal development.The capstone project is a journey toward integration andsynthesis which features intellectual reection, analysis, andconclusions. The M.T.S. student will work with a faculty teamfor the capstone project. One faculty member will serve as a

counselor and resource person, the other will join at the endto provide a review of the nished project and collaborate inrecommending a nal grade. The capstone requirement istypically completed in the students nal semester and is worth2 credits.


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*These courses are representative, notrequired, of what may be taken fromthe Doctrinal/Ecclesiastical Divisions.Specic course sequences will beworked out with the Registrar.

If a student has already taken Greek,alternative arrangements may bemade with the Registrar.

MASTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIESCOURSE SEQUENCE

FOR BIBLICAL STUDIES CONCENTRATION

OT 113 Basic HebrewNT 113 Introduction to New Testament*CH 112 Ancient Church History*AS 112 Introduction to Apologetics

*DD 112 Theological FoundationsGK 201 New Testament Greek

OT 122 Advanced HebrewOT 133 Hebrew Reading, Text-Criticism & CanonDS 133 Theology Proper (Doctrine of God)BD 133 Biblical HermeneuticsGK 202 New Testament GreekTotal Course Hours: 27

NT 213 Interp. of the Gospel & Acts

OT 214 Interp. of Revelation before the MonarchyOT 313 Interp. of Rev. in the Exilic/Post-Exilic Periods*DS 212 Anthropology (Doctrine of Humanity)*DS 213 ChristologyElectiveOT 233 Interp. of Rev. in the Period of the MonarchyNT 233 Interp. of the Pauline Epistles*CH 234 Medieval & Reformation Church HistoryNT 333 Interp. of the General Epistles & RevelationBD 232 Capstone Project

Total Course Hours: 32

Greek 101 & Greek 102 = 6 hours

Fall Interim Spring

2

2

2

2

3322

22

14

3

4323

15

3332

11

33432

15

JUNIOR

YEAR

SENIORYEA

SUMMER

Total Hours: 65


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39Academic Programs

If a student has already taken Greek,alternative arrangements may be madewith the Registrar.

OT 113 Basic HebrewNT 113 Introduction to New TestamentCH 112 Ancient Church History

AS 112 Introduction to Apologetics

DD 112 Theological FoundationsGK 201 New Testament GreekOT 122 Advanced HebrewOT 133 Hebrew Reading, Text-Criticism, & CanonBD 133 Biblical HermeneuticsCH 234 Medieval & Reformation Church HistoryDS 133 Theology Proper (Doctrine of God)GK 202 New Testament GreekTotal Course Hours: 31

AS 313 Applied ApologeticsDS 212 Anthropology (Doctrine of Humanity)DS 213 ChristologyDS 313 EcclesiologyES 313 Christian EthicsED 333 Denominational History/GovtDS 233 PneumatologyCH 334 Modern & American Church HistoryDS 332 EschatologyED 232 Capstone ProjectTotal Course Hours: 28

Fall Interim Spring

2

2

3322

22

14

32333

14

33432

15

33422

14

JUNIOR

YEAR

SENIORYEAR

FOR DOCTRINAL/ECCLESIASTICAL CONCENTRATION

Greek 101 & Greek 102 = 6 hours

SUMMER

MASTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIESCOURSE SEQUENCE

Total Hours: 65


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NONDEGREE PROGRAMS

Non-degree programs are available for students who would liketo pursue theological education, but for a variety of reasons do

not have the resources or desire to complete the extensive studyrequired for the M.Div. or M.T.S. degrees. For these students,Mid-America oers abbreviated and individual programsof study that will allow the student to receive a certicate ofeducation.

NONDEGREE STUDENTA student not enrolled in either the Master of Divinity program

or the Master of Theological Studies program, and who is takinga course for credit, is classied as a non-degree student and is notrequired to meet entrance and course prerequisites for biblicalstudies. A non-degree student should contact the AdmissionsOce and ll out the non-degree student application form.This serves as both the application and registration form forthe non-degree student.

AUDITORSA person who does not wish to enroll as a degree or non-degree student may enroll as an auditor. Auditors must paythe stipulated tuition and fees, obtain written consent of theinstructor, and audit only courses for which there are adequateclassroom facilities. An auditor should contact the AdmissionsOce and ll out the non-degree student application form.This serves as both the application and registration form foran auditor. Students may not change from audit to credit afterthe semester deadline for changing courses. Permission andregistration for auditing are to be obtained from the Registrar.

Audit fees (per hour): Alumnus $30.00 Regular $100.00 Students spouse $15.00

Auditors are granted a certicate of completion for eachcourse that they audit. When all the courses in one of thefour main divisions have been audited, a divisional certicateof completion is granted. While having no ocial academicstanding, such certicates serve to attest that the recipient has


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41Academic Programs

attended such courses and has been involved in continuingeducation. In some cases, such a testament serves to satisfythe requirements that ecclesiastical, or other, bodies may havefor continuing education on the part of their oce bearers or

sta. Typical programs of study for a certicate of educationare listed below. More narrowly focused certicates may beawarded upon request.

Biblical Languages Certicate: 15 hoursBiblical Studies Divisional Certicate: 28 hoursEcclesiastical Studies Divisional Certicate: 13 hours

Doctrinal Studies Divisional Certicate: 26 hoursMinisterial Studies Divisional Certicate: 21 hours


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M.Div. M.T.S.:Biblical

M.T.S.:Doc/Ecc

Biblical Studies

Divisional Studies

BD 133: Biblical Interpretation 3 3 3

BD 232: Capstone Project 2

Old Testament Studies

OT 113: Basic Hebrew 3 3 3

OT 122: Advanced Hebrew 2 2 2

OT 133: Hebrew Reading, Text-Criticism, and Canon 3 3 3

OT 214: Interpretation of Revelation Before theMonarchy

4 4

OT 233: Interpretation of Revelation in the Period ofthe Monarchy

3 3

OT 313: Interpretation of Revelation in the Exilic andPost-Exilic Periods

3 3

Greek Language StudiesGK 101 3* 3 3

GK 102 3* 3 3

GK 201 2* 2 2

GK 202 2* 2 2

New Testament Studies

NT 113: Introduction to New Testament 3 3 3

NT 213: Interpretation of the Gospels and Acts 3 3

NT 233: Interpretation of the Pauline Epistles 3 3

NT 333: Interpretation of the General Epistles &Revelation

3 3

Ecclesiastical Studies

Divisional Studies

ED 232: Capstone Project 2

ED 333: Denominational History and Government 3 3

Historical StudiesCH 112: Ancient Church History 2 2 2

CH 234: Medieval and Reformation Church History 4 4 4

CH 334: Modern and American Church History 4 4

Course Requirements byDegree Program

*Students admitted to the M.Div. program, who have not met the Greek prerequisites, maytake these courses, which are oered by Mid-America during the summer and academic year.


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43Academic Programs

M.Div. M.T.S.:Biblical

M.T.S.:Doc/Ecc

Doctrinal Studies

Divisional Studies

AS 112: Introduction to Apologetics 2 2 2

AS 313: Applied Apologetics 3 3

DD 112: Theological Foundations 2 2 2

Doctrinal Studies

DS 133: Theology Proper (Doctrine of God) 3 3 3

DS 212: Anthropology (Doctrine of Humanity) 2 2 2

DS 213: Christology 3 3 3

DS 233: Pneumatology 3 3DS 313: Ecclesiology 3 3

DS 332: Eschatology 2 2

Ethical Studies

ES 313: Christian Ethics 3 3

Ministerial Studies

Divisional Studies

MO 211: Preaching from the Revelation before the

Monarchy

1

MO 231: Preaching from the Revelation in the Period ofthe Monarchy

1

MO 311: Preaching from Revelation in the Exilic and Post-Exilic Periods

1

MN 211: Preaching from the Gospels and Acts 1

MN 231: Preaching from the Pauline Epistles 1

MN 331: Preaching from the General Epistles andRevelation

1

Pastoral Studies

PS 114: Preaching & Church Education 4

PS 132: Public Worship 2

PS 133: Pastoral Care and Counseling 3

PS 232: Applied Pastoral Counseling 2

PS 313: Missions and Evangelism 3

Practice Preaching

PP 131: Applied Sermon 1

PP 331: Catechism Sermon 1

Electives 8 2

Total Credit Hours 102 65 65


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45Ministerial Apprenticeship Program

Mid-America Reformed Seminary believes that mentoringshould be part of all ministerial training. From the beginningof Mid-Americas existence, pairing the Master of Divinitystudent with an experienced pastor has been an integral aspectof the Seminarys training. Students participate in mentoringrelationships not simply during the summer, but throughout

their seminary career. Veteran ministers and their congregationspartner with the Seminary in preparing students to be pastorsas well as preachers.

Mid-America is concerned that students at the Seminaryreceive practical experience as well as an excellent academiceducation. Mid-Americas academic standards are high and itsprogram rigorous, but academic excellence alone does not make

an eective pastor. Knowledge is of little value if the student isnot able to apply what he has learned to the daily situationsand regular preaching involved in the pastorate. In addition tohaving knowledge of the Word in his head, a minister of thegospel must have the Word in his heart. The indwelling Wordand Spirit are crucial in shaping a minister who is not only aknowledgeable preacher, but also a compassionate pastor.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONMid-America recognizes the necessity for practical experiencein preparing a man for ministry. It also realizes that there isno better way for a student to gain that experience than bybeing paired with a veteran pastor in a mentoring relationship.This relationship between the seasoned pastor and the M.Div.student is the focus of the Ministerial Apprenticeship Program(MAP). This Program allows the student to gain eld experience

throughout his seminary career.

Field education is a part of seminary training, but it is alwaysclosely connected to the life of the church. This is becauseseminary training must serve Christs church. Students whosedenominational requirements dier from, or go beyond, thoseof the MAP should ensure that necessary requirements are

Ministerial ApprenticeshipProgram

Ministerial

A

pprenticeship

Program


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incorporated as much as possible into their eld education.

Every full-time student preparing for the gospel ministry isrequired to participate in this Program throughout his time of

study. The Master of Divinity student automatically becomespart of the program upon his entrance to the Seminary.

The program is under the supervision of the MAP Director,in consultation with other faculty members. Working withthe student, the MAP Director helps to secure a minister tosupervise the students eldwork. The supervising ministershould be a member of the Mid-America Reformed Seminary

Association, if possible. Ordinarily the student will make thesupervising pastors congregation his church home, and hisrelationship with the pastor and congregation will continue forthe duration of the students seminary training. Any nancialremuneration is incidental to the established purpose of theprogram.

The students work will be evaluated at designated times each

year so that his competency in several areas may be tested andimproved. The student, the pastor, and the faculty will meet atthe end of the junior year to evaluate specic areas of growthin the students spiritual, personal, theological, and ministeriallife. Near the end of the middler year, a consultation with thestudent is conducted in the presence of the faculty. The facultyhelps the student determine his suitability for the ministryand counsels him with regard to his continuing studies. If

necessary, the senior year concentrates on any areas that needimprovement.

The following program requirements are to be met by thestudent and, except for the exhorting, they should be completedbefore the third year of seminary study:

Regular contact with the pastor, consistory or session,

and congregation by the student during the rst year ofstudy in order to gain a broad acquaintance with the lifeand activities of the congregation. It is the responsibilityof the student to see that his work is being supervised andregularly evaluated.Involvement in the following areas of the work of the


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church: Teaching a church school (catechism) class, or leading

a society or Bible study; Attendance at a specic number of meetings of

consistory or session, diaconate, and classis orpresbytery;

Direct contact with the evangelism program of thecongregation;

Involvement in calling on the sick, shut-ins, and othersneeding pastoral care;

Exhorting in the worship services of the congregationand area congregations.

At least two summers of service in a congregation, eitheras student assistant to a pastor or in a vacant church, in

which latter case the student will be supervised by a pastorin a neighboring congregation, whenever possible. Eachsummer assignment is to be at least ten weeks in length.

Whenever possible and desired by the student, some of theabove and additional requirements may also be met by apastoral internship of no less than ten months, normally

between the middler and senior years of seminary studies.In all cases of work, detailed evaluation will be periodicallyrequired from the supervising pastor, the student, and theconsistory or session.

The number of unit credits (as stated below) will be given foreach of these areas of involvement; the full number must beobtained to receive the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree.

PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATIONThe Ministerial Apprenticeship Program is concerned with thespiritual, personal, theological, and ministerial developmentof seminary students in the following broad areas:

Worship Leadership (especially preaching) Church Education Pastoral Care Church Government and Administration

The Program incorporates both course practica and workspecically assigned by the pastor and consistory or session.In this way, the Program integrates academic work and eld


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experience.

All of the work, except for the exhorting, must ordinarily becompleted by the third year of seminary study. The exhorting

requirements can be completed in the last two years of seminarysince licensure or permission to exhort is usually granted onlyat the end of the rst year of seminary studies.The frequency of meeting with the supervising pastor shallbe at the discretion of both the pastor and the student. Thestudent must take the initiative in seeing to it that suchsupervision is conducted. At least in the initial phases of the

work, the supervising pastor shall review with the student such

questions as the following:

What is the ministers role in leading worship,in teaching catechism and/or leading societies,in congregational evangelism and witness tothe community, in pastoral care and counseling(pastoral conversation), in leading and training theelders and deacons? What goals does the minister

have in these various areas? How does he structurehis use of time (for family, for congregational work,for ministerial growth and development, etc.)?

What goals for study and reading does he have inorder to facilitate such growth and development?

These areas need not be covered in one session but may becovered as the work progresses. To maximize benet from the

Program, before the student teaches, goes on pastoral calls,or attends meetings, the supervising pastor should discussthe specic goals of such activities (What do we want toaccomplish?). Following supervised activities, it is importantto review what actually happened (Were the goals met? Whyor why not? What must happen next time?).

In addition to the regular course assignments given in the

Division of Ministerial Studies, students who aspire to the gospelministry are required to complete on-the-eld assignments asoutlined below. These must be performed, as much as possible,in consultation with the professor in charge of the prescribedcourses and the students supervising pastor and consistory orsession.


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These practica will not be considered complete until all theproper report forms are lled out, handed in, and the studentengages in reection and evaluation with the supervisingpastor and a faculty member. This will take place at the end of

each academic year. Additional written work may be requiredat that time.

Since not all of these practica can in every instance be carriedout during the time scheduled for the prescribed courses, nalcredit in each is not given until completion of the work andsubmission of the appropriate forms. It is expected, however,that as much as possible the two (class work and practica) be

completed concurrently. Both the course practicum and anyother MAP work are described below.

HOMILETICS PRACTICUM(one unit)During the Junior year, upon completion of at least one-half ofthe Preaching and Church Education course, the student is tohear four sermons preached by four dierent preachers, andrecord text, theme, and divisions and write an evaluation of

both structure and delivery, along with theological reectionon the signicance of the sermon(s) in the context of thecongregations life.

LITURGICS PRACTICUM(one unit)In connection with the Public Worship course, the studentis to attend three dierent worship services in three dierentchurches, noting carefully the Order for Divine Worship

followed in each, and writing an evaluation of them in the lightof Reformed liturgical principles and practice.

CHURCH EDUCATION PRACTICUM(one unit)During the Preaching and Church Education course, thestudent is to engage in conversation with the pastor of thechurch to which he is assigned, to learn and evaluate the place,order, and curriculum of the church education program in that

congregation. He is to teach a church school (catechism) classor lead the Bible study of a church society. In addition, thestudent is to visit two dierent classes taught by the pastor, ifpossible, and engage in theological reection with the pastor.The pastor and/or a member of the consistory or session shouldobserve his teaching.


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PASTORAL CARE AND COUNSELING PRACTICUM(one unit)In connection with the Pastoral Care and Counseling course,the student, under the guidance of pastor, consistory or session,

is to engage in a specic number of calls on families, youth, thesick, and the elderly. Ability to use Scripture appropriately andlead in prayer should be demonstrated and will be evaluatedby the supervising pastor to aid in the development of pastoralskills. This pastoral work can also be conducted in the course ofthe summer assignments.

The student should also seek opportunities to observe and

evaluate various diaconal agencies, organizations, andinstitutions of mercy that oer help to individuals and familiesin time of need. A list of assigned opportunities will be handedout at the beginning of the semester in which this course istaught. Student reports and written theological reections arerequired.

EVANGELISM PRACTICUM(one unit)

In connection with the Missions and Evangelism course, thestudent is to participate with the pastor in the work of evangelism(or with a neighboring pastor, if the students congregation is

without a pastor). When the student does evangelistic workon his own, he is to submit written reports to his supervisingpastor, which will serve as the basis for conversation andreection between him and his supervising pastor.

CHURCH ADMINISTRATION PRACTICUM (oneunit)In the rst year the student is to make contact with hissupervising pastor and obtain permission to attend twoconsecutive meetings of the consistory or session as well as onediaconal meeting. The above are to be attended after briengby the pastor.

In connection with the Denominational History andGovernment as well as the Ecclesiology courses, the student isalso to attend two meetings of an area classis or presbytery, oneof which should include the examination of a candidate for thegospel ministry, if possible. Reports concerning these meetings


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(including the students theological reection), written on theappropriate forms, are to be handed in and placed on le.

PRACTICE PREACHING PRACTICUM(one unit)

In addition to the sermons assigned for the practice preaching,the student is to keep a record of the congregations whereand dates when he has exhorted, noting the texts and themesused. A faculty member may be able to evaluate an exhortingassignment during the year for each student.

During the second year of study, the student should lead atleast eight worship services, using at least six dierent sermons.

During the third year of study, the student should lead at leasttwelve worship services, using at least eight dierent sermons.

In addition to the required number of exhorting engagements,students are encouraged to accept as many opportunities toexhort as possible.

MAP CREDITS

Appropriate report forms for all apprenticeship activitiescan be obtained from the MAP Director. More informationconcerning supervision, consultation, and reporting is availableat registration.

The required number of MAP credits is ten (10), of which eight(8) are for practica and two (2) are for summer assignments orintern work.

CREDIT FOR PRIOR WORK IN CHURCHESMid-America Reformed Seminary recognizes that somestudents begin seminary studies with signicant experience ina variety of capacities within their home congregations. Thiscan include experience in church education, evangelism, youth

work, pastoral visiting, and service as an elder or deacon. All ofthis can be very benecial to the students preparation for the

ordained ministry.If a student with such experience can provide adequatedescription of his prior work, along with statements by hissupervising pastor and/or elders that such work was conductedin an approved and satisfactory manner, Mid-America maycredit such work and experience toward the respective practica


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that are included in the Ministerial Apprenticeship Program.

No work completed prior to seminary enrollment, however,will be credited toward a summer eld education assignment.


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53Academic Regulations

ACCREDITATIONMid-America Reformed Seminary is accredited by theCommission on Accrediting of the Association of TheologicalSchools (ATS) in the United States and Canada, and thefollowing degree programs are approved:

Master of Divinity,Master of Theological Studies

The Commission contact information is:The Commission on Accrediting of the Association ofTheological Schools in the United States and Canada, 10Summit Park Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15275, USA. Telephone: 412-788-6505. Fax: 412-788-6510. Website: www.ats.edu.

Mid-America Reformed Seminary is a member of theTransnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools(TRACS) [P.O. Box 328, Forest, VA 24551; telephone 434-525-9539; e-mail: [email protected]], having been awarded Accreditedstatus as a Category III (Masters degree-granting) institutionby the TRACS Accreditation Commission on April 6, 2005.TRACS is recognized by the United States Department of

Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditationas a national accrediting body for Christian institutions,colleges, universities, and seminaries. TRACS is also a memberof the International Network for Quality Assurance Agenciesin Higher Education.

REGISTRATIONAll students are expected to register during the regular

registration periods at the beginning of each semester. As acondition of registration, students are required to provideproof of adequate health insurance for themselves and theirdependents. Late registration will entail a fee of $15 and ispermitted before the tenth day of the semester only whensucient reasons have been submitted to and accepted by theRegistrar. A student is not considered fully registered until

Academic Regulations

Aca

demicRegulations


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either the required amount of the semesters charges has beenpaid or satisfactory arrangements with the Business Oce havebeen made.

STUDENT STATUS AND COURSE LOADStudents admitted to the Master of Divinity program will, uponthe completion of the requisite hours, be classied as follows:

0-33 hours: Junior 34-66 hours: Middler 67+ hours: Senior

Students admitted to the Master of Theological Studiesprogram will, upon the completion of the requisite hours, beclassied as follows:

0-27 hours: Junior 27+ hours: Senior

Full-time students are those who take ten or more course hours

per semester; those who carry nine or fewer course hours persemester are classied as part-time students.

Classes are typically scheduled in the morning and earlyafternoon hours, permitting time for necessary classpreparation, research, and reading. As a general guideline, twohours of study time are expected for every hour of class time.

DROPPING OR CHANGING COURSESA student desiring to withdraw from a course, or to changeenrollment, must have written permission from the Registrar.In general, students withdrawing from a course after thetwenty-fth day of the semester will receive an F for the course.Students are permitted to change from one course to anotherbefore the tenth day of the semester.

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE SEMINARYStudents desiring to withdraw from the Seminary before theend of a semester must notify the Registrar in writing. For thepolicy on refunds, see that section in Finances. The failure of astudent to remain registered as a full-time or part-time student

will be considered an act of withdrawal. Should a student desire


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to resume studies after having withdrawn, he must reapply foradmission to the Seminary.

GRADING

The scale below indicates grade point values used to evaluateseminary work:

Letter Percent Points A 96-100 4.00 A- 92-95 3.67 B+ 88-91 3.33 B 84-87 3.00

B- 80-83 2.67 C+ 77-79 2.33 C 74-76 2.00 C- 71-73 1.67 D+ 69-70 1.33 D 67-68 1.00 D- 65-66 0.66 F below 65 0.00

I Incomplete 0.00

A report of semester grades is generally available fteen daysafter the conclusion of the semester.

INCOMPLETE GRADE REQUEST POLICYIf extenuating circumstances (unusual and unavoidablecircumstances which hinder completion of assigned work)prohibit a student from completing a course on time duringthe semester, a student may request a grade of Incomplete andan extension to complete the necessary work. A request foran Incomplete must be submitted to the professor by noon onthe last day of classes of the semester in which the course inquestion is being taken.

To request such an extension: Fill out the request form available from the Registrar and

take it to the professor in charge of the course. The professor will then meet with the Registrar and one

other professor to discuss the request. If approval is granted, the student will be assigned a new


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deadline to complete all work, up to a maximum of fourweeks from the last day of examinations.

At the professors discretion the grade will or will not bereduced.

If an Incomplete is granted, the students grade for the coursewill be I until the work is handed in and a grade assigned bythe professor. If all work is not received by the new deadline, afailing grade will be assigned for that work. If the work that isstill incomplete includes any of the courses major requirements,a failing grade will be assigned for the course as a whole.

ACADEMIC PROBATIONEnrollment in the Seminary program and continued progressin the curriculum require that a student maintain a cumulativegrade point average of 2.67 (B-) or higher. Although a student

who falls below this average will not be expelled, he will be puton academic probation for a maximum of two semesters. Afterthat time, the possibility of continued study will be reviewed

with the student and faculty.

INDIVIDUAL STUDIES SEMINARThis curricular option is designed to oer senior students anopportunity for independent research. After discussing hisinterest with the appropriate faculty member, the student maysubmit a proposal by the end of the fall semester of his senior

year. At the students initiative, the faculty supervisor willmonitor the progress of this independent study in consultation

with the student. The outcome is to be a substantial paper,following proper research methods and procedures, submittedto the faculty supervisor, with a summary presented orally tothe students peers. Evaluation will be based on both writtenand oral presentations.

POLICY OF NONDISCRIMINATIONIn accordance with the requirements of Title IX of theeducation amendments of 1972, Mid-America ReformedSeminary does not discriminate on the basis of gender in theeducational programs or activities which it operates, includingemployment, except to the extent that the primary purpose ofthe Seminary, which is to prepare men for the ministry of the

Word and sacraments, requires that discrimination on the basis


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of gender take place in admissions, recruitment, educationalprograms, and nancial assistance.

ACCOMMODATION FOR DISABILITIES

Mid-America Reformed Seminary has full handicap access,and the Seminary oce works with the Dean of Studentsto assist disabled students who request accommodations.The oce provides orientation to campus resources andrecommendation for accommodation of the studentsdisability. When medical verication is on le and therequest for accommodation has been approved, a persemester academic accommodation plan may be developed in

consultation with the students academic advisor. The ocecan also assist in requesting accommodations in housing andfacilities. Physically challenged students are encouraged torequest accommodation as early as possible in their planningprocess.

HEALTH INSURANCEStudents are required to show proof of medical insurancecoverage for themselves and their dependents upon entrance tothe Seminary. This proof should be submitted to the BusinessOce with the registration form.

AWARDSAt the closing chapel service of each year, the faculty honorsselected seniors with awards for academic excellence. The

awards and the criteria employed in their determination arelisted below.

Biblical Studies Award:Highest combined scores on Hebrewand Greek comprehensive exams.

Doctrinal Studies Award: Highest GPA in the area of doctrinalstudies.

Ecclesiastical Studies Award: Highest GPA in the area of

ecclesiastical studies.Ministerial Studies Award: Highest GPA in the area ofministerial studies.

Homiletics Award: Exhorting evaluation form marks andfaculty evaluation.


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APPLICATION PROCESSMid-America has a rolling admission policy. Applications

will be reviewed once all materials are submitted. Studentsseeking admission for the fall semester should apply by May

1. Students seeking admission for the spring semester shouldapply by December 1. The following materials are required:

1. Application for admission2. Medical questionnaire3. Ocial transcripts from undergraduate and graduate

work4. Pastors reference

5. Academic reference6. General reference7. Ecclesiastical recommendation (M.Div. students only)8. $40 application fee (fee is waived if application is received by

February 1)9. Current photograph (optional)10. A personal interview with the Registrar is ordinarily

required


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59Transfer Students

Transfer Students

The Seminary strives to facilitate a students transitionfrom another seminary into the curriculum and program atMid-America. Transcripts of previous seminary work and acatalog containing descriptions for those courses from theother institution must be presented to the Registrar prior toregistration so that they may be evaluated individually. The

Registrar may ask to examine course syllabi or other materialsthat demonstrate content and requirements of work for whichtransfer credit is requested. Credit transfers and programplacement are always discussed with the student in an attemptto honor the work of other schools and be as exible as possible.Masters level course work that does not require the use ofbiblical languages will not be granted transfer credit towardany of Mid-Americas courses in the departments that require

use of Hebrew and Greek.

Students seeking transfer credit from an unaccreditedinstitution must supply a copy of the course syllabus and asample of coursework for each course for which transfer creditis requested. Acceptance of transfer credit for one course froman unaccredited institution does not imply the acceptance ofother courses from that institution.

Only courses with a grade of B or above will be considered fortransfer credit. No transfer credit is granted for course workcompleted at the bachelors level. Competency exams areoered occasionally.

For students receiving educational benets from theDepartment of Veterans Aairs, the Seminary will initiate

a review of transcripts of any masters level work in order todetermine which and how many credits partially fulll Mid-Americas requirements. All transferable coursework willbe accepted into the students Mid-America program. TheRegistrar determines course equivalence on the basis of coursedescriptions, syllabi, prerequisites and requirements, and inconsultation with the relevant instructors.

TransferStudents


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MASTER OF DIVINITYAt least 36 semester units of courses, taken over

mid america reformed seminary. 2014-2016

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