ANOTHER PARTNERSHIP

     One of the most common and difficult questions we have received about the Instituto ALMA leadership training course is if it is accredited.  Since our primary mission with the Instituto ALMA is to make leadership training accessible to leaders, we felt that seeking accreditation would hinder that effort by forcing the program into traditional forms.
     On the other hand, we have recognized a growing concern of Hispanic leaders to receive an education with the same level of professionalism and credibility as is available to their English-speaking counterparts. 
For these special leaders who have completed their B.A. and would like to study for their Master�s degree, Houston Graduate School of Theology, in cooperation with the Instituto ALMA, will be presenting master�s level classes in Spanish as a part of their regular master�s program.
     Dr. David Byrne has been temporarily assigned by the CHM board to work part-time with HGST as their �Director of Hispanic Ministries� in order to help establish the program. 
     Already for this fall we plan to present a full schedule of classes for both the master�s level as well as for a certificate program for those who do not qualify academically to enter the master�s program.
     Dr. Carlos Rivera (3rd from right in the picture) is the administrative assistant for Hispanic Ministries and is a key person whom God has used to help launch this program. 

     Pastor Angel Díaz stands in front of the Newberg Hispanic Friends church where he and members of the congregation and community have worked hard preparing the upcoming North American Hispanic Friends Conference.
     Set in beautiful central Oregon, the conference will challenge Friends to be involved in missions to the world while at the same time providing a time of fellowship and encouragement as they celebrate God�s work among them in the past year.
Dr. Chuck Mylander, EFM director, will be presenting along with others who have an expertise and heart for cross-cultural ministry.
     Remember to pray with us during the conference (August 8-11) or join us if you are able.  Pray for the preparations and the travel and that God will use this conference to unify and inspire Hispanic Friends.