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Fred Frewing teaches the first group of Hebron students in 1953. |
One of the biggest goals of the Gospel Missionary Union has been preparing believers in Bolivia for the work of our Lord Jesus Christ.
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Fred and Evelyn Frewing, founders of Hebron |
It was for this purpose that several brothers purchased property in Camiri when it became available in 1949. In 1953, the Hebron Biblical Institute started its work, training young men and women for Christian ministry.
This noble task began with four students and two teachers — Fred and Evelyn Frewing. At that time, the Institute did not have a building, so classes were held outdoors until God let us build two beautiful buildings.
In 1977, the conditions were right to establish a seminary-level institution. And so the Santa Cruz Theological Seminary was born.
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Old Hebron buildings in Camiri |
The Seminary opened its doors in February 1977, using the building of the Templo Evangélico Cristiano. But in February 1981, we began the school year in our own building. The building was meant to be a dormitory, but for three years it also served as classrooms and offices.
In 1982, Hebron Biblical Institute moved from Camiri to Santa Cruz and shared facilities with the Santa Cruz Theological Seminary. That same year, a new building was constructed, since the student body had outgrown its existing classrooms.
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The bridge that connected Hebron with the town of Camiri |
In 1984 there was an urgent need for an administrative building, so we built one with a 250-person chapel, a large library, classrooms, and administrative offices. As with the previous two, this building was built by faith.
Thanks to God, we now have better structures, which enables us to offer different levels of education: Christian Education/Ministry and Bible/Theology.
The Lord has also given us the opportunity to expand our property. So far, our campus has grown to 7000 sq. meters. We have independent dorms for single men and women, apartments for married couples, and apartments for teachers.
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One of Hebron's present buildings in the city of Santa Cruz |
In 1992, the Santa Cruz Theological Seminary had its first graduation at the Profesorado level. In 1993, the Hebron Biblical Institute and the Santa Cruz Theological Seminary merged and took on a new name: "Hebron Theological Seminary."
In 2001, Hebron undertook a new challenge, offering a Licenciatura level of studies. The first module began that April.
This year, Hebron will celebrate its golden anniversary, September 22-28. We are also preparing to have our first graduation at the Licenciatura level. The future is bright.
"... Thus far has the Lord helped us". (1 Sam. 7:12)