Studies in the Middle East

An Ecumenical & Inter-Religious Study Year in Beirut

The Near East School of Theology (N.E.S.T.) is an inter-confessional Protestant Seminary serving the evangelical churches of the Middle East . The primary purpose of the School is to train pastors and church workers for ministry in the churches and other evangelical organizations in the Middle East . It is also concerned with continuing theological education of the laity.

The N.E.S.T. welcomes candidates from other Middle Eastern churches, as well as any person seeking to learn about Protestant theology and faith, irrespective of his or her religious affiliation. Students from beyond the Middle East, who have a special interest in Biblical Studies against the cultural background of the Middle East , Islamics or Oriental and Orthodox churches, are also welcome.

The N.E.S.T. is a member of the Association of Theological Institutes in the Middle East (ATIME) and cooperates closely with the Fellowship of the Middle East Evangelical Churches (FMEEC) and the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC).

NEST is located in the western part of Beirut , near major educational and cultural institutions, in a section of the city that has a long history of Christian-Muslim coexistence. It houses a library of 42000 volumes in English, Arabic, Armenian, French, and German.

The NEST offers a special program of studies for expatriate students who would like to become acquainted with and/or deepen their knowledge of the churches of the Middle East , Islam and Arabic language and culture.

STRUCTURE OF THE STUDY YEAR

First Semester (October - February)

Introduction to the Arabic Language: a special course for expatriates extending throughout the year (3 hours/week).

Contemporary Eastern Churches: a survey and introduction to the various liturgical, doctrinal and spiritual Christian traditions, including field visits, excursions and interviews.

Islamic Studies: Courses that introduce Islam historically and doctrinally, as well as advanced courses in Islamics and Christian-Muslim dialogue and relations.

Ecumenical Movement in the Middle East : An historical survey, with special attention given to joint ecumenical work; including field visits and conversation with ecumenical figures.

Optional courses offered by NEST or neighbouring universities (American University of Beirut, Jesuit University, Lebanese American University, Haigazian University…).

Second Semester (February - June)

Students decide to specialize in any of the above areas. They are required to do research, under supervision, in a specific field and produce a paper (25-30 pages). Courses may be attended at NEST or elsewhere for that purpose.

Prerequisites

- Adequate knowledge of English, the language of instruction at NEST.

- Some previous study of Theology

Costs

The costs for the year (October - June) are ca. $573/month for board and room, tuition, and accident insurance. Courses at other institution cost extra. Visas, travel to and from Beirut , and pocket money are the responsibility of the student.