From FaithNews Network of the Church of God (Cleveland, TN)

The Hispanic Institute of Ministry (HIM) of the Church of God has partnered with the Dallas Independent School District to offer ESL (English as a Second Language) and GED (Graduate Equivalency Diploma) classes to the growing Latino community of the area.

Both classes, which are full to capacity, were opened to HIM students and members of the community in general. This GED course is currently one of the few offered in Spanish in the Dallas area and over 50 students benefit from the two four-hour courses weekly. On Saturdays, the Hispanic Institute is also offering two three-credit general education college-level courses: Microcomputers Applications and Introduction to Psychology.

This semester a total of 54 students registered at HIM. Twenty-nine registered for the Diploma in Biblical Studies & Theology and Diploma in Christian Ministry programs. Another 25 registered in the certificate programs which include concentrations in Pastoral Studies, Educational Ministries and Sacred Music. Most students are Hispanics from the U.S.A. who represent over 10 different nationalities and countries including, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Chile, Equatorial Guinea & those born in the U.S.

HIM has also began a radio ministry with a weekly broadcast of €œConsulta Teolgica€ (Theological Inquiry). The program first aired on August 9, 2004 on the 540AM. Since then it has generated dozens of calls requesting information about the institute and its educational programs.

“This is a historic moment in the life of the Hispanic Institute” states Dr. Jose Daniel Montanez, president of HIM; €œFor the first time, we can offer instruction at three different levels reaffirming our mission and vision to serve the church in equipping men and women for the ministry in the Hispanic context of the U.S.A.€

Those who wish to support this emergent educational program of the Church of God or to obtain more information about the Hispanic Institute of Ministry, please call 214.381.6643 or visit the web site at www.HispanicInstitute.cc.