Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary held its 36^th Commencement Ceremony online 29 May. Bishop Efraim Tendero, global ambassador for the World Evangelical Alliance, gave an encouraging message to the graduating students.

During its 36th commencement, APNTS had 36 graduates from 10 different countries:

• 9 graduates from the Philippines
• 9 graduates from Myanmar
• 7 graduates from South Korea
• 3 graduates from the United States
• 2 graduates from India
• 2 graduates from Japan
• 1 graduate each from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Pakistan, and Peru

APNTS had its first graduates from its new programs Masters of Arts in Intercultural Studies and the Doctor of Ministry in Transformational Ministry. Two students earned the Doctor of Philosophy degree, a program offered in partnership with the Asia Graduate School of Theology – Philippines.

Like the rest of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many students. This challenge gave them the opportunity to find creative ways in learning and ministering to each other online. Professors became more adept at teaching via Zoom, and students learned how to do research with online resources. 

The nine Myanmar graduates are unable to return to their country due to the recent coup, so they will consider pursuing other programs and opportunities. Pray with them as they remain anxious about their families and friends in Myanmar.

--APNTS