AETH and McCormick Theological Seminary sign historic agreement for the benefit of AETH member Bible institutes and the advancement of Hispanic-Latino leadership training programs

CHICAGO, IL & ORLANDO, FL – On March 10, the Association for Hispanic Theological Education ("AETH") and the McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago ("McCormick") signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), designed to allow students from AETH-certified Bible institutes access to master's-level programs at McCormick and to increase cooperation and learning opportunities among teachers, staff, and students at both McCormick and AETH Member Bible Institutes. The signing of this agreement marks a historical event for AETH as it is the first agreement of this kind that AETH establishes with a theological institution accredited by the Association of Theological Schools of North America (ATS). Likewise, McCormick becomes the first ATS member seminary to enter into such an understanding with AETH.

During the signing of the MOU, Dr. Fernando Cascante, Executive Director of AETH and Dr. David Crawford, president of McCormick, said:

“This is an extremely important moment for AETH, students at AETH-certified bible institutes across the country, and for the growing Latinx churches and faith-communities they serve. McCormick has long been a leader in serving and supporting Latinx ministers and congregations and we are both excited and grateful for this opportunity to work more closely with McCormick,” (Dr. Cascante)

“We are blessed to have this opportunity to collaborate with our good friends and colleagues at AETH in expanding accessibility to theological education and building mutually-supportive relationships with AETH-certified bible institutes and the Latinx communities they serve.” (Dr. Crawford)

AETH is the only entity recognized by ATS (Association of Theological Schools) to certify the quality of programs provided by BI and other Hispanic ministerial development programs. The certificate warranties the relevance and top quality of the programs offered by the educational entities and allows graduates of the certified program to apply to master programs in ATS seminaries. With this service AETH is closing the gap between what happens in Bible Institutes and what happens in formal theological education in seminaries. For more details about AETH’s Certfication program see Certification Program.

McCormick Theological Seminary, MTS is a member of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and it is one of twelve theological institutions associated with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). McCormick seeks to embody and create a more just and compassionate world through rigorous academic study, practical experience, spiritual formation and an active, engaged learning community. Founded in 1829 and a leader in the Chicago faith community since 1860, it is a seminary with a long history of high academic standards and a commitment to social justice.

For more information about MTS see: www.mccormick.edu.