The RUMTS offers both
a resident program and a distance learning program. Currently
the seminary can accommodate approximately 20 resident students
per year. Another 50 to 60 students are enrolled in the distance
learning that includes annual two-week seminars per year plus
extension and correspondence course work.
New Christians eager to serve the church come from
across Russia to attend the seminary in Moscow. The students range
in age from some in their early twenties to one man over 65. All
of the students work in churches in and around Moscow while also
attending classes.
The
RUMTS provides quality pastoral leadership to Russian Christians
many of whom are rediscovering their faith through the United
Methodist Church. Thus the seminary contributes to the goal of
the denomination to assist in the spiritual renewal of Russia.
Students listen to a classroom
lecture.
RUMTS
students serve in churches or community outreach missions in addition
to the course of study. Small group discussions are held during class.
Students take a break from study and enjoy a cookout.
The Graduates
The first three graduates finished their programs in the summer
of 1996 and are now serving local churches, including one who is
currently the superintendent of the Moscow District.
To date, 47 students have graduated.Two of the seminary
graduates, Natalya Alexeevna Shulgina and Sergei Nikolaev are
outstanding scholars. Natalya is a Crusade Scholar, and both she
and Sergei are Dempster Scholars. The $10,000 scholarship awards
given by the UM Board of Higher Education and Ministry's Division
of Ordained Ministry are given to doctoral students moving toward
careers in theological education. Both of the scholars are now
studying at United Methodist seminaries in the U.S. and intend
to return to the RUMTS to teach.
The
RUMTS provides quality pastoral leadership to Russian Christians
many of whom are rediscovering their faith through the United
Methodist Church. Thus the seminary contributes to the goal of
the denomination to assist in the spiritual renewal of Russia.
RUMTS
students serve in churches or community outreach missions in addition
to the course of study.
