Bethany Seminary honors 22 graduates at first commencement in Nigeria

By Mbursa Jinatu, Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria

In a joyful celebration, Bethany Theological Seminary held a historic commencement ceremony in Jos, Nigeria. The ceremony took place at the EYN Technology Centre of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) on May 21.

Graduating students were those who had studied in the program from 2021 to 2024, including 21 who earned the Postgraduate Diploma in Biblical Peacemaking and one who earned a Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies.

According to academic dean Steven Schweitzer in a release given to EYN Media, the Postgraduate Diploma in Biblical Peacemaking is a rigorous program that equips students to construct their theology of peacemaking through biblical, theological, and ethical reflection. With this foundation, students apply their learning in a practical setting, planning, implementing, and evaluating peacemaking initiatives that are contextually appropriate, nonviolent, and consistent with their interpretations of scripture, theology, and ethics. The program consists of five courses plus a practicum, with several courses co-taught by Bethany faculty and instructors from Nigeria.

EYN president Daniel Y.C. Mbaya, who is also an adjunct lecturer for the seminary, was the featured speaker at the ceremony. Several dignitaries both from within and outside Nigeria attended the program. Representing Bethany Seminary were Jeffrey Carter, president of Bethany; Schweitzer; Lori Current, executive director of Student Services; Sharon Flaten, assistant for Recruitment and Student Development in Nigeria; Joshua Sati, manager of Academic Operations in Nigeria. Representing EYN were president Mbaya; vice president Nuhu Mutah Abba; general secretary James K. Musa; director of Education, Daniel I. Yumuna; and director of Finance, Ayuba Balami.