BIBLE SCHOOL
“Lighthouse Institute of Ministry: Distant Education Program”We are an authorized "Learning Centre" for the Lighthouse Institute of ministry, and offer Bible School courses at the church with various topics to choose from. Check for times, dates and courses offered.
This is a video correspondence course held at the church.
- This is for anyone interested in pursuing rigorous Theological training through courses offered, while receiving credits towards various diplomas.
- Diploma of Theology
- Doctor of Ministry
- Master of Divinity etc. (these are just a few examples)
- A general overview of Institute History can be view at the end with general FAQ’s regarding accreditation
- Some of you may want to participate in one or more of these courses not for credit which is possible by not sitting test at end of course. (see cost and application details)
OTHER INFORMATION:
Advanced standing credit is available for prior education or ministerial experience. These hours are awarded based on an evaluation of education gained through college or university study and knowledge gained through service in a ministerial capacity.
As a Distance Education graduate, you will have an opportunity to participate in a formal graduation ceremony with other students at the BIM annual conference in Columbus, Georgia. In addition, you will be eligible to purchase a BIM class ring and participate in the BIM Alumni Association. You will also have an opportunity to participate in a Holy Land Study Program during a visit to the Holy Land.
Your personal library will be an excellent source of research and knowledge for years to come. The lectures can be listened to over and over; your study guides will have your own notes in them to refresh your memory concerning the teachings; the textbooks will continue to serve as source of study.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can assist you in any way. It is our prayer that God will richly bless you as you study His Word and apply it to your life.
FAQ’s
| TOP |Is BIM accredited? Beacon University is fully accredited. The accredited diploma division is BIM. Diploma graduates of the Institute of Ministry may apply for admission to Beacon University’s degree programs and may be considered for advanced standing (as is the case for any transcripts from non-accredited institutions, Bible schools, institutes and training centers). br>
Who may take these courses? Any persons who have completed the application, pre-qualified and paid necessary fees. br>
Do you have to be a member of Lighthouse Church to participate? No. As long as you pre-qualify, all are welcome.
Are there any pre-requisites? Yes. You must have a copy of your Grade 12 or GED equivalent or a Letter of competence from your church pastor. Please include any pertinent information in writing from church or an organization when requesting any credits you may wish to use toward your diploma with your application.
Can I obtain credits from Past/Present/Voluntary/Paid religious endeavors to put toward a diploma? BIM will credit any legitimate activity in which a person has done so in furthering their religious vocation. A letter from a church leader or an organization is helpful in receiving proper credits.
How does the Distant Study course work? You will be required to read specific books written by the course instructor within allotted time. (usually 30 days +) Then there will be 8-10 hours of video instruction, set out over a Friday and Saturday once a month. A test (if you desire the credits) will follow. Your test will be sent to the Institute for scoring and will be filed with them. You will receive results/credits at the end of each course taken.
What courses are available? - The first course is “Training For Reigning: Life of David”. - INSTRUCTOR: Dr. Ronald E. Cottle PhD. EdD. This course is the study of principles of leadership and training based on the calling and training and rule of David. Emphasizes David’s life and the classrooms of preparation he had to go through. Helps students find their place in the kingdom whether actively in ministry or not.
What are the Costs involved?
FOR CREDITIED STUDENTS :
$35 one-time only registration fee (as long as you are not inactive for more than one year)
$145 per student, per course (includes textbook, study guide, ten lectures, an exam, etc.)
Family/Couple rate: $145 1st student; $120 2nd student; $115 3rd student
NON-CREDITED STUDENTS :
$65 per student, per course (includes textbook, study guide, lectures etc.)
Remember that these bible courses are considered Distance Education programs; however you will receive unparallel Christian education at a fraction of the cost of other universities! Call the Church 905-536-LITE for more information or an application form.
Can my diploma from BIM be used on my application for jobs? Check with your state laws and your prospective employers.
Does my diploma from BIM qualify me for ministry credentials or ordination? Check with the denomination, organization or network from which you are seeking credentials or ordination. The fact that you have pursued rigorous theological training through the Institute of Ministry may well be one positive criterion) considered by the group from which you are seeking credentials and/or ordination.
How is BIM different from other institutions or church-based curricula of study? BIM is the highest level of Christian education and discipleship a local church can implement. Instruction and impartation are integral to the courses of study which are rigorously regulated by the Institute of Ministry and Beacon University. BIM courses are taught by nationally and internationally recognized Bible teachers who have written the course syllabus, exam and 10-hour lecture materials. A full transcript of courses taken is maintained at the Institute of Ministry and can be sent to any college or university the graduate may apply to for further study. Any non-accredited work done by a student is always evaluated at the discretion of the receiving academic institution.
SCHOOL HISTORY
| TOP |Beacon Institute of Ministry (BIM) began as Christian Life School of Theology (CLST) in 1975 in the heart of Dr. Ronald E. Cottle.
In 1984, the school was moved to Missouri and by 1986 it had grown to twelve learning centers in the south and mid-west. There were nine faculty members and an enrollment of nearly six hundred students. Then in 1988, Dr. Frank Babish became vice president and academic dean, and held the position until 1993. During Dr. Babish’s vice presidency the Video Division and Home Study/Correspondence Division were started in 1992.
In 1994, Thomas Hale became the academic dean. There were seventy-eight learning center sites and fifty-five faculty members at that time. By 1996, the school had grown to 130 learning centers and fifty-eight faculty members. There was also a renewed emphasis placed on the establishment of foreign mission sites and learning centers. By the end of 2000, the school had grown to over 24,000 credit students and approximately four hundred learning centers worldwide, with a presence in twenty nations, including Japan and Kenya.
In 2002, over 250 courses and missions practicums were offered to students. A faculty of 92 taught these courses on learning centers across the country and abroad. There was a renewed emphasis in 2003 that was placed on developing new ways to reach students in foreign countries as new strategic relationships were established.
In 2004 the Board of Directors of CLST approved a proposal to establish the Beacon Institute of Ministry (BIM) to replace CLST (Christian Life School of Theology).
