The Vision

Bishop Ruediger R. Minor came to the episcopacy with experience as both seminary professor and local pastor. He was already deeply committed to theological education when assigned to the Eurasia area.

"We must prepare pastors to preach the gospel persuasively to analytical listeners," he declared. In 1994, building on an ecumenical program initiated by Korean United Methodists in Moscow, the seminary officially opened.

How Are They to Hear Without a Preacher?
-- Romans 10:14

In addition to some Russian professor, scholars from Europe, Korea and the United States serve as visiting professors at the seminary. The courses taught follow a program set by the seminary administrator and include Old Testament, New Testament, history, theology, Christian education, worship, sociology, and pastoral counseling. The exact courses are determined through consultation between the administrator and visiting professors.

Visiting professors must be United Methodist teaching at a seminary or a professor at a United Methodist seminary. These scholars are required to teach a minimum of four to six weeks. Through a translator, professors lecture and conduct large and small group discussions.

Visiting professors from United Methodist seminaries the in United States have included those from Candler School of Theology, Iliff School of Theology, Methodist Theological School in Ohio, Perkins School of Theology, Saint Paul School of Theology and Wesley Theological Seminary. Professors teaching at Asbury Seminary and Ashland Theological Seminary have also served. Occasionally the seminary invites other United Methodists with expertise in specific fields to teach.