Taytay Rizal, Philippines: Members of the Regional Course of Study Advisory Committee (RCOSAC) for the Asia-Pacific Region held an annual three-day meeting at Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS) from 21 to 23 August 2024. The RCOSAC meeting’s primary agenda is to review carefully and evaluate the sourcebook to ensure quality assurance and get it ready for submission to the ICOSAC. Dr. Bruce Allder, Asia-Pacific Regional Education Coordinator, led the meeting. Other members present are Rev. Mark Eugenio – Chapman International College Chancellor, Rev. Eddie Morales – Philippines Micronesia Field Education Coordinator, Dr. Carol Bestre – Melanesia-South Pacific Field Education Coordinator, Dr. Seri Damarwanti – Indonesia Nazarene Theological Seminary President, Dr. Linda Stargel – Nazarene Theological College Brisbane Academic Dean, Rev. Leilani Roqara – South Pacific Nazarene Theological College President, Dr. Oh Won Keun – Senior Pastor, DaeKwang Church of the Nazarene, and Rev. Stephen Wang – Taiwan Nazarene Theological College President. 

One of the challenges that the RCOSAC faces is the immense diversity of the Asia-Pacific region, not just in culture and language but also in educational philosophy and how people approach education. However, they believe they can embrace this diversity through the guidance and help of our Lord Jesus.

Dr. Mark Louw, outgoing regional director, joined the group on the last meeting day to encourage the RCOSAC about the importance of their role in the region. What they are doing shapes the educational direction in the development of current and future leaders and clergy in the church. Dr. Klaus Arnold, the Global Education and Clergy Development Director, had excellent conversations, hearing the strengths and weaknesses of each leader from the different regions.

Pray for the RCOSAC team as they continue to work with educational institutions, field and district in providing direction for the Course of Study development on Asia-Pacific region.