Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies

What is the Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies about?
Students will be grounded in formative teaching and learn skill development essential for rigorous training in Biblical studies. Asian Pastoral Institute or API’s credit-bearing Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies (GCBS) may also be stacked and upgraded. Graduands will be eligible to apply for the Graduate Diploma, Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies, Master of Arts in Biblical Studies or Master of Divinity.

Who is this Course for?
Open to all who:
• Are committed to growing in Christian discipleship with faithful living
• Aspire to take on leadership roles in churches and the marketplace
• Are equipping themselves for full-time service

Course Duration?

GCBS is a 24-credit programme taught over 6 months (full-time) or 1.5 years (part-time). Students have to complete 6 modules (4 credits each). Classes are conducted once a week for 11 weeks.

API quarters run from April, July, September and January. For example, for 2024/2025, the first module would run from 4 April 2024 (Term: 1 April 2024 – 8 June 2024; Briefing for module is scheduled for 19 March 2024).

What are the Learning Outcomes?
Students will be able to:
• Gain an overview of the Old Testament with additional learning of the Pentateuch and Historical Books, as well as the New Testament with additional learning of the Gospels, Acts, and Johannine Writings
• Develop competencies and proficiencies in teaching and learning through guided field practicum
• Learn how to research and write academic research papers
• Promote Christian growth and maturity in the individual and the church corporate in their proclamation of Christ

Who are the Trainers?
API’s unique offering is its trainers. All trainers are well-versed in integrating multiple disciplines with spirituality and theology to address complex and real-world issues and challenges in these post-liberal times.

What are The 6 Modules?

  1. BL5234
    Old Testament Introduction
  2. BL5264
    New Testament Introduction
  3. BL5244
    Old Testament Studies
    (Pentateuch and Historical Books)
  4. BL5274
    New Testament Studies
    (Gospel, Acts and Johannine Writings)
  5. HD5034
    Foundations for Teaching & Learning
  6. HD5024
    Research Writing

How Much Does It Cost?
Fee: $440*/module
*Exclusive of books and materials, registration fees ($25), library and technology fees.

Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies July

DATE: Saturday, 13 July 2024
TIME: 10.00am
VENUE: via ZOOM

FEE: $440/Module

SIGN UP
biblesociety.sg/graduatecertificate
(Registration closes on 10 July 2024)

SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook and Instagram @sowerinstitute

For enquiries, please contact Sam Leow at 6304 3782 or email sowerinstitute@biblesociety.sg


otLIVE Training (Adult)

TEACHING THE BIG PICTURE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT - Discover the big picture of God’s grand story through our fun, interactive Old Testament events. After diving in, participants will be passionate about reading and living out God’s Word.

Many believers are confused about the Old Testament—what it says, what it means, and how to apply it to daily life. Some may wonder if it is even relevant today. Others are overwhelmed by it and don’t know how to read it. Would-be Bible readers often quit before they make it all the way through the Old Testament.

What if there was a programme that could inspire people to read the Bible? Or make the Old Testament come alive in a fun, clear, and very memorable way?

A certified otLIVE instructor will lead a church or group in a fun and exciting event that teaches the big picture of the Old Testament. Attendees will learn the major events and people of the Old Testament and understand its storyline, maybe for the first time.

Facilitators:

Rev Dr Peter Poon

Rev Poon has been involved in Walk thru the Bible Ministry since 1988. Rev Poon has also served in four Presbyterian churches for over 30 years. He is passionate about teaching and training, as well as coaching and mentoring emerging leaders.

otLIVE Training (Adult)

DATE: Saturday, 16 March 2024
TIME: 9am – 4pm
VENUE: Bible House, 7 Armenian Street, S179932
FEE: $40

Follow us on social media:
Facebook and Instagram @sowerinstitute

For enquiries, please contact Sam Leow at 6304 3782 or email sowerinstitute@biblesociety.sg


otLIVE (Adult) Training for Trainers

TEACHING THE BIG PICTURE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT - Discover the big picture of God’s grand story through our fun, interactive Old Testament events. After diving in, participants will be passionate about reading and living out God’s Word.

Many believers are confused about the Old Testament—what it says, what it means, and how to apply it to daily life. Some may wonder if it is even relevant today. Others are overwhelmed by it and don’t know how to read it. Would-be Bible readers often quit before they make it all the way through the Old Testament.

What if there was a programme that could inspire people to read the Bible? Or make the Old Testament come alive in a fun, clear, and very memorable way?

A certified otLIVE instructor will lead a church or group in a fun and exciting event that teaches the big picture of the Old Testament. Attendees will learn the major events and people of the Old Testament and understand its storyline, maybe for the first time.

Facilitators:

Rev Dr Peter Poon

Rev Poon has been involved in Walk thru the Bible Ministry since 1988. Rev Poon has also served in four Presbyterian churches for over 30 years. He is passionate about teaching and training, as well as coaching and mentoring emerging leaders.

otLIVE (Adult) Training for Trainers

DATE: Saturday, 13 April 2024
TIME: 9am – 4pm
VENUE: Bible House, 7 Armenian Street, S179932
FEE: $60

Follow us on social media:
Facebook and Instagram @sowerinstitute

For enquiries, please contact Sam Leow at 6304 3782 or email sowerinstitute@biblesociety.sg


Grow What Matters

Drawing from latest research as well as theology, psychology, spiritual formation, and leadership theories, the programme will give you thorough grounding in the theory and practice of mentoring the next generation.

You will be encouraged to draw out wisdom and insight from your personal story, learn to reflect theologically and meaningfully upon it and apply to a range of situations that young people face today, such as identity formation and self concept, self leadership and moral courage, digital world and its influence, and mental health with a focus on anxiety from merit- and performance-based striving.

Who Should Attend

  • Those ready to do the hard work of reflecting on their own story - self leadership of the mentor.
  • Those ready to listen, ask questions and come alongside young people to help them live their best possible story - leading others through the process of deep reflection and application of their faith.
  • Those willing to patiently help young people work through the dilemmas in life, work and family as well as the challenge of integrating faith and work.

Topics Covered

  • Biblical basis for mentoring
  • Nature of spiritual formation and how people grow and change
  • Current definitions of coaching and mentoring
  • Practical tools and frameworks for coaching and mentoring
  • Reflection upon our own story and self awareness
  • Understanding the stages of your own life and leadership journey
  • Leaving the legacy of your story
  • Coaching - the art of asking good questions
  • The way of wisdom and discernment
  • Understanding the millennial generation and generation z
  • Emotional intelligence and coaching
  • Personality theory and how people learn
  • Mentoring someone with anxiety
  • Mentoring someone with perfectionist tendencies
  • Mentoring in a digital world

 

Facilitators:

Dr Asia Williamson

Asia, a half-Polish, half-German scholar, studied theology at Sheffield University in the UK after working for the Polish Government. A Harvard Kennedy School graduate, she directs the MA programme in Public Service Leadership in the UK.

As Co-founder of One Rock International in 2005, Asia focuses on spiritual formation and leadership training, as well as serves as a lecturer, author, and Leadership Development Catalyst for the Lausanne Movement. She's also the CWR Asia Director, leading a Singaporean non-profit founded by Selwyn Hugh, author of Everyday With Jesus.

Grow What Matters

SESSION 1
DATE: Friday, 22 March 2024
TIME: 7pm–10pm

SESSION 2
DATE: Saturday, 23 March 2024
TIME: 9am–3pm

VENUE: Bible House (Level R), 7 Armenian Street, S179932
FEE: S$140

For enquiries, please contact Sam Leow at 6304 3782 or email sowerinstitute@biblesociety.sg

Follow us on social media:
Facebook and Instagram @sowerinstitute


Sketches of Leadership

Does this sound familiar?

You would like to begin the next leadership team meeting with a short Bible study that addresses timely issues. You wish you had prepared sooner.

Your small group Bible study is out of ideas. Watching videos is not really Bible study, but no one feels they are a Bible scholar enough to prepare from scratch.

Your ministry is growing, but you simply don't have enough leaders. You need constantly to be preparing new leaders and challenging existing leaders to grow as well.

Your ministry organisation is beginning a change initiative, and you would like to open Scripture, seeking God's guidance to help your senior leaders prepare and plan for the rollout.

Each Sketch is organised around the following patterns:

  • Discussion-based Biblical study
  • Brief summary in lecture format
  • Small group discussion using case studies, personal inventories, interactive exercises or reflection questions

 

These Sketches are built to take 45 to 60 minutes for a small group experience but could be done well one-on-one in 30 minutes. Individuals eager to grow can also use Sketches of Leadership in their individual Bible study. From here you can learn how to use the Sketches or visit the Library and see the breadth of available Sketches. Or read on to learn more about how Sketches can up your game, whether as an emerging leader or an experienced trainer.

Facilitators:

Richard Lamb
Richard has served over 35 years as a Bible teacher, trainer and ministry development leader with a track record of seeing extraordinary ministry growth and strategic organisational and leadership development. He holds Undergraduate degrees in Chemistry and Economics, and an MA in Organisational Development and Leadership.

Sketches of Leadership

DATE: Tuesday, 27 February 2024
TIME:  8PM–9.30PM
VENUE: via ZOOM
FEE: Free Admission

For enquiries, please contact Sam Leow at 6304 3782 or email sowerinstitute@biblesociety.sg

Follow us on social media:

Facebook and Instagram @sowerinstitute

 


otLIVE for Adults

A certified otLIVE instructor will deliver a fun and engaging event that brings the old Testament to life. Attendees can gain fresh insights of the significant events in the Old Testament, key figures, and storyline, making it more relevant to their daily lives. 

DATE:
Saturday, 14 October 2023 

TIME:
10.00am–5.00pm 

VENUE:
Bible House (Level R), 7 Armenian Street, S179932 

FEE:
$40 

For enquiries, you may call Sam Leow at 6304 3782 or email sowerinstitute@biblesociety.sg

Follow us on social media:
Facebook and Instagram @sowerinstitute

About the Facilitator

Rev Nicholas Choo

Rev Choo is a highly sought-after speaker and trainer in various organisations. He holds a B.A. in Psychology from Trent University and a   M.Th at Ontario Theological Seminary in Canada. He specialises in Walk Thru the Bible programmes, such as Kids in the Book.


Micro Church Planting


Helping Families Cope with Multiple Stressors

Session 1: Managing Caregiver Stress in Challenging and Uncertain Times

24 February 2024 at 1PM–4PM | Fee $40 | Venue: Asian Pastoral Institute, 20 Aljunied Rd, Singapore 389805

Equip yourself with valuable skills to better manage caregiver stress and improve a family’s well-being. The workshop explores the multiple stressors families face in Singapore, the signs of caregiver burnout, and practical steps to manage caregiver burden. You will also learn to use screening tools to assess your mental well-being objectively

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

  • Understanding the multiple stressors that families undergo in Singapore
  • Recognising the signs and risks of burnout in caregivers to children with needs and vulnerable adults
  • Using screening tools for depression, anxiety, and stress as an objective self-assessment tool
  • Adopting practical steps to manage caregiver burden
  • Participative learning from case studies

 

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

  • Family members or friends providing care to children with special needs or vulnerable adults
  • Professionals or volunteers seeking to develop interviewing skills
  • Teachers, educators or community workers interested in understanding family dynamics
  • Anyone interested in learning practical steps to support vulnerable families

Session 2: Basic Interviewing Skills to Uncover How Problems Develop in Families

30 March 2024 at 1PM–4PM | Fee $40 | Venue: Asian Pastoral Institute, 20 Aljunied Rd, Singapore 389805

In this workshop, you will develop basic systemic interviewing skills to uncover how problems develop in families, using systemic theories to make sense of conflicts and problems. Participate in interactive in-class demonstrations and role plays and gain valuable insights from real-life case studies.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

  • Understanding the basic principles of interviewing families
  • Participative learning in in-class demonstration and role play
  • Adopting principles of using systemic theories to make sense of the conflicts and problems in families
  • Participative learning from case studies

 

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

  • Family members or friends providing care to children with special needs or vulnerable adults
  • Professionals or volunteers seeking to develop interviewing skills
  • Teachers, educators or community workers interested in understanding family dynamics

FACILITATORS

Mr Joseph Chan
EdD (studies), Master (Social Work), MA (Pastoral Studies), GradDip (Social Work), BPsy, BBA

Joseph has worked in the social service sector for more than 20 years. In his time as a social worker and head of a Family Service Centre, he saw the impact that conflictual family relationships, addictions, and financial issues can have on family life. He also has the experience of heading the Family Resource Centre and worked with ex-offenders in their personal rehabilitation journeys. Between 2016 and 2018, he chaired the Family Violence Work Group for the Ang Mo Kio Region. He is a registered social worker with the Singapore Association of Social Workers.

Ms Jacinda Tan
MA (Applied Psychology), BA Hons (Social Science)

Jacinda has worked in the social service sector for more than 15 years and has been engaged in
both children and youth work. Her rehabilitation and protection work has covered youth-at-risk,
protection of children, offending youths and adults, including those with mental illness. She
currently leads a team at work and supervises social work interns.


Coaching and Mentoring – ILM Level 5 & 7

ILM Level 5 - Diploma in Effective Coaching And Mentoring

This programme provides participants with a sound understanding and practical grounding in effective coaching and mentoring methods. Participants will understand the differences between coaching and mentoring, and the significance of coaching and mentoring in the development of individuals and organisations.

Join the open days and get more info about ILM Level 5 Diploma in Effective Coaching And Mentoring for the May 2023 Intake
Thursday April 6, 2023 | 9.00 PM―10.00 PM GMT+08.00
Thursday April 13, 2023 | 9.00 PM―10.00 PM GMT+08.00
Venue: Zoom Meeting

Register ILM Level 5 Now!

ILM Level 7 - Diploma in Coaching Supervision

This programme aims to equip professional coaches with the confidence and competence to practise as coaching supervisors. It is ideal for those seeking to develop their expertise in internal or external supervision of strategic, leadership, business, or management coaching.

Join the open days and get more info about ILM Level 7 Diploma in Coaching Supervision for the June 2023 Intake
Thursday May 4, 2023 | 9.00 PM―10.00 PM GMT+08.00
Venue: Zoom Meeting

Register ILM Level 7 Now!

 

*Special Discount is available when you register with us. Detailed programme pricing will be presented on the Open Day

Co-Organised by:
Sower Institute For Biblical Discipleship and Abilita

PROGRAMME TRAINERS

Yong Guang Teh, MD, MA, FInstLM | Programme Director & Principal Trainer
Yong Guang is an educator who is deeply passionate about helping leaders all around the world thrive. He currently holds senior leadership positions in academic, healthcare and non-profit organisations. Also, he has spearheaded international education initiatives for communities in Africa and Malaysia. In line with his passion, he is experienced in coaching and mentoring leaders to overcome significant adversity and attain personal growth.

Professionally, Yong Guang is a clinical radiologist who leads medical imaging teams at a busy children’s hospital that serves a diverse population of 1.2 million kids. He holds Master’s degrees in Organizational Leadership (York, NE, USA) and Counselling (both with distinction). He is qualified by the British and European Psychological Societies to administer psychometric instruments for learning and development. Yong Guang is a Fellow of the Institute of Leadership & Management (UK).

Horng Yuan Saw, PhD | Registrar & Senior Trainer
Horng has served in more than 10 organisations in Malaysia, South Korea, and New Zealand for the past 20 years, which included universities, research institutes, faith-based and non-profit organisations, and community trusts. He has experience working with more than 20 leaders of different nationalities, engaged business stakeholders and partners, and provided leadership and training to people of different professions and age groups. He has delivered sessions and spoken in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, China, New Zealand, and Australia.

Horng holds a PhD (Massey University, NZ), MEng and BEng (Universiti Malaysia Sabah), Diploma in Christian Ministries (Alphacrucis College), and a Dale Carnegie Training professional certificate.


Refuge