We believe in a
holistic model of education. Our desire is to go beyond the simple
transmission of facts and train the whole person. Much instruction
takes place within the classroom, but each student’s training
includes his or her involvement in the life and ministry of a
local church, relationships with other students, relationships
with the EBC staff and faculty, and interaction with the surrounding
culture. What we teach in the classroom is learned in the context
of relationships, church life, and engagement with culture.
Students
are required to participate in and contribute to the life of
a local church. Each student must serve at least four hours per
week in some type of church ministry. In addition to this, student
life at EBC is designed to push students deeper into church involvement.
Rather than functioning as a substitute for the local church,
our desire is to partner with the local church in training and
encouraging students to function properly within the body of
Christ—not just after college, but as a vital part of their
student life while at EBC.
Student life events are designed to
promote the type of relationships that support a holistic learning
environment. We place students with faculty in real-life situations
so that the same professors who shape their theology can also
mold their character. We give students the opportunity to observe
and interact with other students and faculty outside of the classroom
because learning must happen in the context of community. This
incarnational model of education serves as a catalyst for student
involvement in their local churches.
While students share in
community with their local churches, with their classmates, and
with the faculty and staff, students are also placed in environments
where they interact with the surrounding culture on a daily basis.
All of our students live off campus. This places students in
the midst of a neighborhood and culture that they must engage.Engagement
of culture is essential in training students for ministry.
- Assimilate
students into the life of a local church.
- Develop community amongst students, faculty, and staff.
- Promote active engagement with the surrounding culture.
|
