Gordon Bennett, known around the school as Butch, has been with Ethnos360 for 38 years. In September of 1982, he and his wife Pat moved to Mexico. Four years later they returned to the U.S. to serve at the Bible Institute in Jackson, MI. Butch has served the school in several different capacities such as dean of men, dean of marrieds, and dean of students. He has also taught various subjects to the freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior classes. His vast depth of knowledge has impacted the students’ understanding of hard topics like prophecy and end times events. Butch may have a bit of a wild side, but his love for students is evident in his dedication to discipleship outside the classroom.

Where are you from originally? I was born in Atlantic City but was raised in Hammonton, New Jersey.

When did you join the Jackson team? December 1986

What is your favorite thing about serving at Ethnos360 Bible Institute? Teaching and hanging out with students

What is something the student body might not know about you? I was raised Catholic, and I received my confirmation name, Peter, at 10 years old. I got a watch as a gift for receiving my confirmation; it was a nice watch. Well, I got into a fight at school. I threw a punch at a kid, and it flew off my wrist and I never found it. My old man was pretty mad. I guess it was a pretty expensive watch.

At what point in your life were you convinced to become involved with missions? A couple years after I was saved, I heard a missionary speak about people around the world who had never heard the Gospel; and that was amazing to me. I thought everybody had heard it and we were just waiting for the Lord to come back. His message pressed upon the heart of my wife and I, and we decided we were willing to be missionaries. A friend of ours introduced us to Ethnos360, and we headed to the training center after discovering Ethnos360 is an organization focused on getting the Gospel to people who have never heard it.

What’s your favorite place to eat in Jackson? Olive Garden

What pastimes do you enjoy? Reading, riding my bicycle, watching TV, and playing and watching basketball

Do you have a “hero of the faith” that you admire, and if so, what about them is inspiring? I’ve kind of taken a liking to Daniel the prophet for his longevity and faithfulness in 70 years of ministry. There is absolutely no condemnation mentioned about his walk with God in the whole Bible, except out of his own mouth. No one else had anything bad to say about Daniel. Gotta give that man some credit.

Who is your favorite musician? Carlos Santana

Where is your favorite place to spend time? East Coast Beach

Interested in studying the whole Bible in two years? Get your free information packet from Ethnos360 Bible Institute (founded in 1955 as New Tribes Bible Institute) by following the button below.

Meet Colton Miller

Colton is an Ethnos360 missionary kid (MK) from South America and Pennsylvania, and is a freshman at Ethnos360 Bible Institute of Jackson. In high school he planned to get a degree in Social Studies/History at a local university, as well as play soccer there. But a couple months before graduation, he had a serious change of heart. Colton knew that this was not what the Lord wanted him to do. Like Jonah, he wanted to flee God and make his own path. God continued to work in his heart, slowing bringing Colton to Him again. A month after graduation, Colton decided to change his plans by spending two years studying God’s Word and laying a foundation for his walk with God.

A Typical Day at Ethnos360 Bible Institute:

5:45 A.M. – Breakfast 

I wake up and spend time in prayer, interceding on behalf of a specific list of people around the world I routinely pray for. After my quiet time with God, I work out in the fitness center until breakfast at 7:00. The school’s maintenance crew eats breakfast with the students, so I take the opportunity to get to know them. After breakfast, I clean up my dorm before heading to class.

8:00 A.M. — Class

Our first class right now is Hermeneutics taught by Chad Huber. Hermeneutics is the process of studying the Bible. With the knowledge I have gained from this class, it’s opened my eyes to a lot of things that I have missed when I read the Bible. It’s been challenging because it’s a whole different viewpoint of looking at the Bible and other resources. There are so many outside resources that can help me understand the historical and cultural context of each passage of Scripture.

I came into Hermeneutics thinking the way I studied Scripture didn’t need to change. I assumed I knew how to study the Bible and thought, “how far off can I be?” But I was far off, and this class has been such a blessing on helping me know how to dig deeper into the context of the Bible.

9:00 A.M. — Chapel

This is our chapel hour where we take a break from our regular Bible classes. Chapel is different every day with a variety of speakers either from in-school staff, missionaries, or visitors from the community.

I really enjoy the chapels that occur every Thursday. All the single guys and a few staff men go to a classroom to talk for 45 minutes. The things that guys struggle with are talked about without any fear of judgment. They are willing to tell us areas that they’ve struggled with, knowing that we are facing the same temptations in our own lives today. The fact that they would be open and vulnerable to share their struggles is really encouraging. My parents are living in a tribe in South America which makes it difficult for me to go to my dad to talk about “guy things” but I’ve built a friendship with one of the staff guys through him sharing his personal story in these chapels.

10:00 A.M. — Class

After chapel, we have regular class time again. This hour we are going through the book of Genesis with Todd Nelson. I’ve read Genesis the most out of any book in the Bible but after taking Hermeneutics with Chad Huber, I’ve found so many new things that I had never noticed before. The patience of God astounded me as the characters in the Bible continued to sin against Him. Time and time again, He showed His love to those who rejected Him. We also had to talk about the topics that I tend to avoid in Genesis like violence and depravity. It was good to finally take Genesis apart and use hermeneutics to study it more.

11:00 A.M. — Class

Chad is our teacher again as we go through Leviticus. This is a book that I typically skim over. I thought it would be a boring class just talking about sacrifices that don’t have much to do with me. Leviticus shows, however, how difficult it was for the Israelites to even talk with God since they couldn’t enter the Holy of Holies. They couldn’t have direct access to God; they needed a mediator which was the priest. It dawned on me the privilege it is to have direct access to God. I can pray to Him anywhere, anytime; and it’s easy to take that for granted.

12:00 P.M. — Lunch

After four hours of class, it’s time for lunch. Lunch time is a great time for me to talk to people outside of my class. At the beginning of the semester, I found it hard to branch out from my classmates, but lunchtime is a comfortable environment to get to know staff and students from other classes. It’s hard to pinpoint some teachers when they are free, because they’re all seriously busy. However, lunch is a time where most staff members are free to talk over their meal. In fact, they invite you to sit with them!

1:00 P.M. — Elective

After lunch, I have an elective called Understanding Suffering with Rich Bruce. I wouldn’t say that there was one big event that I really suffered through, but there were many challenges my family faced as missionaries in a tribe. It was really hard to understand why God would allow obstacles to come our way while we were trying to get the Gospel to those who hadn’t yet heard. This class opened my eyes to see how God used those challenges for good.

2:00 P.M. — Work

After class, I head for work at a grocery store. Most of my coworkers are unbelievers, so I’ve had the change to witness there. Working allows me to get away from the confines of the school which can be a much-needed break. It’s also a great opportunity to interact with the community.

The Lord has really been testing my faith in Him this year through my financial situation. I knew before coming to school that I would have to work hard to pay my own way. My parents are missionaries so they aren’t able to support me financially through college. I started the year off with two jobs, but now I’m forced to work three. As hard as it is, the Lord keeps showing me how to rest in the security that He will always provide for me. In our Theology class, we’ve been learning about the different names of God. One of them is “Jehovah-Jireh,” which means “the Lord will provides.” I’m thankful to experience His provision firsthand this year.

6:00 P.M. — Intramural Sports

I’m involved in some of our school’s sports intramurals that are held Monday-Thursday nights each week. On Wednesday nights though, I play futsal outside of the school with a group of guys from all over South America. It’s a cool ministry opportunity because I speak Spanish and can relate to them from growing up in the same area of the world.

8:30 P.M. — Homework

After intramurals, I head to my dorm to do some homework, the majority of which is reading. Our assignments really test our knowledge of the information given in class; it’s not just busy work. The homework material has helped me to fully grasp the many important and intricate issues that are discussed in the classroom.

10:30 P.M. — Bedtime

As I get ready for bed, I reflect on all things I’ve been blessed with by attending Ethnos360 Bible Institute: studying God’s Word in-depth daily, being discipled by staff, and applying what I’m learning in class by witnessing to the community.

 What’s Next for Colton?

My desire is to do long-term missions with Ethnos360. I would love to reach an unreached ethnic group, somewhere in Latin America. Before heading to the next step of training at Ethnos360’s Missionary Training Center (MTC) or Emanate of Ethnos Canada, I plan to work at a landscaping company to save some money. Ultimately, I am open to whatever the Lord leads me to do. He is at work, and I just want to be a pawn in His game wherever He wants me.

A child is born into a state of complete dependence on others. Ask any parent and they will attest to this fact. Babies rely on someone else to be fed, changed, and carried around because they are born without the ability to do such things on their own. However, as they mature, they will learn how to walk, feed themselves, and go to the bathroom. By nature, they grow increasingly independent until they can live life without the need for parental guidance.

This reality parallels the journey of a believer in Christ. When we first come into a relationship with Him, we have no idea how to live out our Christian life. We all need someone to come along side us to guide us in our walk with God. The rearing of a child largely impacts how that child will grow up and what type of adult he or she will become. The baby Christian is the exact same. Just like babies need parents to guide them, so a new believer needs spiritual mentorship.

“As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming.” Ephesians 4:14

Mentorship Provides Accountability

Immature Christians can be susceptible to “trickery of men” and “craftiness in deceitful scheming.” In the world, there are many teachings that appear true, only to fall short of God’s Word. Like children, we can be tempted to cling to worldly beliefs as they appeal to our pride.

Many voices shout at us through social media. We receive images and videos of people who claim to know the correct way to live. Every worldview under the sun wants to align our thinking with theirs.

There is a sea of ideas where “every wind of doctrine” blows in all directions as we could be “tossed here and there by waves.” So, in a world of constant noise, how are we supposed to focus on the only true voice? When the seas rage and the lightning roars, who can help us hear the voice that’s telling us to walk upon the waters? We are to compare everything we hear against the standard of the Bible. Without correct guidance and comprehension from a spiritual mentor, we can come to incorrect understandings.

Mentorship Provides Direction for the Christian Life

Just as children are dependent on those who are more mature and have more experience, so too believers are dependent on the mature believers around them. The Lord designed the Christian life to be this way. That is why He places us in a body and bestows on people certain gifts specific to growing individuals within the church.

“And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.” Ephesians 4:11-12 

A spiritual mentor can help guide us in the right direction. They have lived the Christian life, and their valuable experience can help our spiritual development. God has chosen to teach them, and through them, God can teach us as well.

Whether theological or practical, mentors can help us sift through the “waves…every wind of doctrine…the trickery of men,” and “craftiness in deceitful scheming.” We don’t have to be “children, tossed here and there,” because God has put in place specific people to help us mature in Him to be equipped for His service.

Practical Steps in Mentorship

The Lord has designed the church like a body so that believers don’t walk this Christian life alone. If you don’t have someone who is pouring into  your life on a regular basis, someone to be vulnerable with, someone who can listen to your struggles and encourage you in the Lord, then pray and seek one out.

Find a mentor who is preferably older, with more life experience, who has proven his/her faith and has a close relationship with the Lord. This can be your pastor, youth pastor, an older friend, or parent. It doesn’t even have to be limited to just one either, as Solomon, the wisest man, writes, “without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”

Andrew Williams is one of the fairly new staff members to join the team of Ethnos360 Bible Institute at Jackson. He and his wife Sarah, along with their three kids, have been here just a little over a year. Andrew, like many other staff members, has a double role here at Ethnos360 Bible Institute. He mainly serves as the single men’s dean, but he has also spent some time in the classroom teaching the books of James and Jude.

Where are you from originally? Northern Idaho

When did you join the Jackson team? I was an intern here a few years ago, but came on as staff the summer of 2016.

What is your favorite thing about serving at EBI? I enjoy the chance to be a part and an observer of what God is doing in the lives of students as they learn His Word and what it means for their lives.

What is something the student body might not know about you? When I was 16, I jumped off a cliff and landed wrong. As a result, I broke my back. It was pretty painful, and I ended up having to wear a back brace for three months.

At what point in your life were you convinced to become involved with missions? I was convinced when I was here at Bible school as a student studying God’s Word; I saw that He wants to use us for purposes that are eternal and not just the here and now.

What’s your favorite place to eat in Jackson? Chilango’s Burrito Bar

What pastimes do you enjoy? Reading, playing the guitar, watching movies, and hiking

Do you have a “hero of the faith” that you admire, and if so, what about them is inspiring? Ruth, because she was willing to be like a “nobody” for the sake of another person.

Who is your favorite author or musician? Author: Dennis McCallum

Where is your favorite place to spend time? My house with my family

Interested in studying the whole Bible in two years? Get your free information packet from Ethnos360 Bible Institute (founded in 1955 as New Tribes Bible Institute) by following the button below.

Meet Kasey Muise

Kasey is from Los Angeles, California, and is a sophomore at Ethnos360 Bible Institute of Jackson. In high school, Kasey had always planned on becoming an actress. She graduated in 2014 and spent the summer auditioning for plays in local theaters and working in order to save money so that she could attend acting school.

After going to a community college for a semester, Kasey went on a week-long missions trip to Tijuana, Mexico, with Caravan Ministries. Before the first day was out, it was clear to her that God wanted her to be involved in missions. Kasey turned down the acting school in L.A. to become an intern at Caravan for a year. It was at Caravan that she desired to be trained for the mission field at Ethnos360 Bible Institute.  

A Typical Day at Ethnos360 Bible Institute:

6:45 A.M. – Breakfast 

I wake up to the sound of my alarm clock and take no time getting out of bed. I get dressed before grabbing my Bible to head downstairs in the dining hall for some quiet time before breakfast. The school offers a variety of fruit every morning, so I typically eat lots of fruit and a breakfast sandwich.

7:30 A.M. – Dorm Detail

I have an hour between breakfast and class, so I use this time to finish dorm detail. Basically dorm detail is a task that each person has Monday through Friday to keep the dorms clean. After my room is straightened up, I head back downstairs to get a cup of coffee in the dining hall right before going to my first class of the day.

8:00 A.M. – Class

Rich Bruce is teaching this hour on Man and Sin (Hamartiology and Anthropology). It’s pretty impossible to fall asleep in this class, as its content is pretty staggering. Each day we are reminded of the depravity of man and the condition of the lost. I knew that each person had a sin nature; but I didn’t realize that believers were given an additional nature. It just dawned on me that I have two natures fighting within me, and I have been given the power to choose which nature I will submit to.

9:00 A.M. – Chapel

Today is worship chapel which is my absolute favorite chapel. I go to the front even though I usually sit in the back for chapel. There’s just nothing like being in a room full of people who are committed to studying the Word of God together, people at different places in life coming together to sing about how much He loves us. The Spirit of God is most evident to me there. And worship chapel is always perfectly planned – it’s scheduled on the days that I’m at the end of myself. In just those 45 minutes of praising God, I am renewed and encouraged to keep pressing on.

10:00 A.M. – Class

Now it’s time to go to back to class. Chris Darland is teaching Life of Christ for the next two periods. We’ve covered the books Matthew, Mark, and Luke; and now we’re in the gospel of John. Each gospel has a unique perspective but they come together so complementary. In Matthew, Jesus is proven to be King of the Jews. In Mark, Jesus is proven to be the Messiah. In Luke, Jesus is proven to be human. In John, Jesus is God Himself. Each book is important to cohesively show us who the person of Christ.

After reading about the promised Messiah in our Old Testament classes, we get to see so many prophecies Jesus fulfills during His time on earth.

12:00 P.M. – Lunch

The tight-knit community of Ethnos360 Bible Institute is most apparent during lunchtime as most of the staff eat lunch in the dining hall. Lunchtime is a great time to get to know staff and even ask the teachers questions about things I didn’t understand in class. Getting to know the staff families at a personal level greatly impacts the learning and discipleship aspect of the school.

1:00 P.M. – Elective

After lunch I get ready for my elective which is from 1:10-2:00. We’ve just started Understanding Suffering, taught by Rich Bruce, and it’s already been challenging as we go into the topic of why God is loving and sovereign but still allows suffering to happen in the world. My past has given me a lot of framework for this class.
I really struggled with the idea that if God exists, He can’t be all-powerful and good. This class has taught me how god uses the trials in our lives for our good.

3:00 P.M. – Discipleship

I have a meeting with my dean which happens a few times a month. It’s part of the discipleship program of Ethnos360 Bible Institute. Right before coming to Bible school, I realized that I’m not a person who is quick to be vulnerable. A previous discipler of mine challenged me to learn how to open up and be spoken into. I’ve slowly told my dean most of my story…which is a big deal to me. She graciously has taken my story and accepted me where I am. She speaks wisdom and gentle truth into my life. I walk away knowing the things I need to work on but I remain encouraged.

4:00 P.M. – Work

It’s time to head over to the YMCA where I work as a receptionist, so I have to wear business casual clothes. I really enjoy working there, because I have prior experience in reception. Last semester, I worked at Wolverine cleaning here in Jackson. When I first got here, it took 2 months to find a job (Wolverine) but that’s because I came in January. Later I found out about the YMCA job through a classmate and it only took two weeks of processing. The key is to be really proactive in job searching when you first get here.

7:00 P.M. – Work Out

My shift is over and I head home to work out. I was surprised when I got here at the equipment they have in the fitness center. They have a good selection of machines that I don’t need a spotter for. I have access to the YMCA gym but I don’t use it because our facility on campus is really nice.

7:45 P.M. – Student Work Program

I am on Student Leadership this semester under the role of Student Work Program (SWP) Leader. SWP is a program which involves each student helping to clean the school in order to keep the cost of tuition down. As an SWP leader, I oversee female students who have the tasks of cleaning all of the women’s bathrooms, the girls’ floor, ladies lounge, and the stairwells. Being an SWP leader has stretched me; not a week goes by that I don’t experience confrontation. The biggest challenge for me has been to not sacrifice the program for the people. A task as simple as mopping the bathroom floor may not seem very important, but each “small” task helps the school function as efficiently as possible.

8:00 P.M. – Homework

I end each day finishing up homework. From the beginning of my time here, I was encouraged to view my Bible homework as a means of relationship and fellowship with the Lord, not just an academic exercise. The homework is geared toward application and about learning how to search the Word to feed yourself spiritually. Through the homework, I’ve learned how to read and ask questions, and pull things from the Bible that I can use practically. The Bible says that God draws near to those who seek Him. Homework time doesn’t exclude that. Even when doing homework I can seek Him and trust that He will draw near; He has proven to be faithful to show up.

What’s Next for Kasey

My desire is to spend a year doing an internship in ministry and working simultaneously. Afterwards, I hope to continue my missionary training at Ethnos360’s Missionary Training Center or Ethnos Canada’s training center Emanate.

Someone once asked me where I wanted to be a missionary. I honestly had no idea, so I told them to point at the map and pick a location to get the point across that I’m willing to go anywhere. They pointed to South Asia, so I did some research because I didn’t know anything about this region. From my research, I found that in one area of South Asia, there were only 20 out of 273 language groups that have heard the Gospel. Despite my desire to go to South Asia, I’ve learned over the course of my time at Ethnos360 Bible Institute that the Lord isn’t caught up in the geography of where I’m headed but in my willingness to go.

Leaving your home to move somewhere new isn’t easy for anyone. But what about moving to a place where the people don’t speak the same language as you? Or what about moving to a place where the people live completely different lives than North America?

Moving to a foreign field comes with great challenges. Many potential missionaries wrestle with how their family will fare on the mission field, and more specifically, how their children will handle growing in a completely new culture.

As a missionary kid (MK) myself, I hope to shed some light on this particular topic from firsthand experience. I grew up in the mountains of the Philippines and spent the first fifteen years of my life in a remote village. As a result, I faced various trials that I wish to share with you.

My experiences certainly aren’t absolutes; the experience of other MKs will most likely differ from mine. But my experiences allowed me to see God’s work in my life amidst all the barriers that came as a result of growing up on the mission field.

Living with Cultural and Linguistic Barriers

One of the most important parts of childhood are the friendships you build and the relational skills you learn from them. For a missionary kid these friendships are different. There are barriers that put extra difficulty and strain upon these friendships. These barriers are called culture and language. As missionary kids are learning how to build friendships, they’re also learning a brand new language and culture in the process.

Despite being a full-blooded Filipino, I was brought up as an Australian, so my mother tongue is English. My way of thinking and worldview are polar opposite to those in the tribe whom I grew up with. Certain life necessities, like safety, esteem, and self-actualization, were difficult to access because of the difference in culture and language.

Something as simple as the concept of education showed the difference in our thought. I held to the classic Western child’s viewpoint that school was simply a hinderance, so I took my education for granted. However, to the tribal people whom I lived with, education was highly valued because not everyone was able to go to school.

Another barrier that I mentioned was language. Growing up in a tribal setting allowed me to pick up some of the language but I never became extremely fluent. This hindered my ability to connect with my peers on a deeper, more intimate level.

As I moved into adolescence, my soul began to crave relationships outside of my family that went deeper than the surface. I suffered greatly from this and even though I had some great friends and still do to this day, almost every day was filled with an overwhelming sense of loneliness.

I had a great desire to connect with someone my own age, who understood the way I thought and could comprehend my dreams. I wanted someone I could just simply talk to without struggling to express myself.

Living in a Dangerous Place

One of the greatest fears of potential missionaries is the aspect of danger on the field and what it would mean for their children. I grew up in what was known as “The Place with Most Blood Shed,” where the sound of gun shots was the norm and the death of people you knew happened regularly; the feeling of danger always loomed close by. As a result, I was regulated to stay within the confines of the mission complex. This had a massive impact on the way I related to others and presented an obstacle that I had to overcome as a missionary kid.

One day I was getting ready for school, and all of a sudden I heard multiple gun shots in the distance. This was the start of a clan war that lasted all day. I hid in a room downstairs which was situated a little below ground so no stray bullets could come my way. My parents were outside tending to people who were coming to our house for shelter and I just sat there with earplugs sheltering me from the sound; yet they didn’t stop me from feeling the vibration of the military grade weapons.

I remember the first few weeks back in Australia, my parents and I were sitting down for a meal when I heard multiple bangs. For a second, my heart stopped as a sense of danger kicked in as I thought I heard gunshots. They were merely fire crackers.

Being regulated to the confines of the mission compound gave me an overwhelming sense of loneliness. I couldn’t visit my friends, so my days were filled with school in my house. My parents were always there, but their work kept them busy. I had to keep my own company and learn to entertain myself. To this day, I often prefer to do things by myself and I close myself off to the world. It was only when we were in Australia a few years later that I began to truly relate to people and find a freedom to be vulnerable.

God Meeting Me in the Midst of the Challenges

Moving to the tribal village where I grew up brought many trials. However, I don’t regret my hardships; in fact I count them as blessings. Without these, I wouldn’t have such a close relationship with my mother. She filled that void and now I consider her not only a parent but also my closest friend.

When I stopped focusing on myself and began focusing on Jesus, I began to see what a privilege it was to grow up with these people in the Philippines, and to be able to show them His love and care for them. I grew to love them not just for what they could give me, but for who they were.
Even as I’ve experienced much loneliness, seen many dead bodies, and been in close proximity to violence, I wouldn’t change it for the world. I count it as a great blessing to be able to have lived on the front lines of missions and to have seen God work greatly! I’ve even witnessed many murderers come to know Christ as their Savior.

We have to put things in perspective. Underneath the facade of safety we have in North America, danger is just as close here as it is on the mission field. My parents have been on the field for almost thirty years now and, despite living in a very dangerous place, nothing has happened to them. God has protected them.

That’s not to say that God won’t allow things to happen to you. In fact, there are many instances where missionaries have been taken advantage of, robbed, and even martyred. However, we’ve got to see that in this world we live in, there is no place that is truly safe.

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28)

If you’re going to be in danger, then why not be in danger for furthering the reach of the Gospel and for saving people’s souls from an eternity of separation from God?

What is Emanate?

Emanate is Ethnos Canada’s training program for believers interested in church planting among unreached people groups.

At Emanate, students are equipped as part of a community that is committed to sacrifice, excellence and urgency for the Gospel. Teaching from field-proven theory, our trainers have been there and teach from firsthand experience.

Why should I go?

Today, hundreds and hundreds of people groups have yet to hear of the life changing message of Jesus. Many of these last people groups are in difficult to reach places on our planet. Whether isolated by geography, cultural and linguistic barriers or hostility to the message of Christ, God’s heart is for these people to know and worship Him in truth.

For many of us, engaging other cultures in conversations about Jesus is difficult. Leaving home and family is challenging, and families must give up much of what they have taken for granted. Emanate prepares individuals and families for the challenges that missionaries will face on the mission field.

What are the prerequisites needed before attending Emanate?

You will need about 60 credit hours at a Bible school (about the equivalent of 2 years). Many students come through Ethnos360 Bible Institute before going to Emanate, but you can also meet the requirements at different Bible or Christian colleges or through life and church experience. Learn more about the requirements, training at Emanate, and Ethnos360 Bible Institute, founded in 1955 as New Tribes Bible Institute.

What is the cost?

We’ve eliminated the single largest cost at most educational institutions: staff salaries. All of our staff are missionaries, supported by churches and individuals with a vision of helping you learn what you need in order to join the church planting team.

(USD is based off currency rates as of 2017)

Fees for first and third semester:

• Singles: $3242 CAD ($2619.89 USD)
• Married couples without children: $6484 CAD ($5239.79 USD)
• Married couples with one child: $6604 CAD ($5336.76 USD)
• For each additional child: $120 CAD ($96.97 USD)

Fees for second semester:

• Singles: $3977 CAD ($3171.29 USD)
• Married couples without children: $7954 CAD ($6342.57 USD)
• Married couples with one child: $8164 CAD ($6510.03 USD)
• For each additional child: $210 CAD ($167.46 USD)

How long is the Emanate program?

Emanate is an 18 month training course. A new class of students starts their training in the fall of each year and finish December of the next year (including Jungle Camp for 6 weeks in the summer).

What is the schedule like each day?

In an effort to round out the full experience of equipping at Emanate, students interact with each other and staff in a few different ways. We understand that we cannot learn everything in the classroom context, so time spent in chapel, discipleship, and the afternoon work program acts as a place to work out the theory of the classroom. Chapel, discipleship, and the afternoon work program is designed to be an extension of our values, practices, and theology. These practices are then further experienced and developed at home with our families, at church and in our community.

What experience does the staff bring to the training?

There are currently 23 experienced missionary families or individuals serving at Emanate who are passionate about teaching field-proven methods that are constantly updated to remain effective and relevant.

Nearly all of our staff at Emanate brings first-hand experience to the specialized training you receive, offering both the practical and spiritual preparation you need to become an important part of the team that is planting tribal churches.

What courses does Emanate go through?

• Biblical Worldview: North American Worldview and Foundations of Grace, the Interpretive Journey, Foundations of the Believer, Foundations of the Church
• Missional: Relationships Principles, Teamwork, Time Management, Essentials for Cross-Cultural Learning, Form and Function, Learning Styles, Cross-Cultural Communication, Sounds and Symbols, Phonemics, Grammar, Literacy, Culture and Language Acquisition Techniques, Families in Ministry II
• Church Planting: Big Picture, Philosophy of Foundational Bible Teaching, Child Protection, Family Life, North American World View, Families in Ministry I, New Testament Church, Animism, Folk Religions, Planting the Church, Curriculum Development, Semantics and Translation, Field Ministry Presentation

What is campus life like?

Discipleship: We know that we cover a lot of different topics on missions and personal growth in class. For this reason we make discipleship a regular part of the course. Each student or student couple is connected with staff and meet together on a weekly basis. This allows the students and staff to process the content together. This is done in an atmosphere of grace and mutual care. There is an expectation that both staff and students will speak the truth in love and talk about real issues that need to be looked at before being in a cross cultural setting

Chapel: As a part of our equipping process we come together daily in a variety of formats that make up chapel. Missions is built on the foundation of prayer. We take time twice a week to pray for global missions, local churches and our own needs. We also take one day a week to casually enjoy fellowship and encouragement through small group meetings. One day is split up for men and women to meet separately taking time in the Word. Lastly we have local pastors, visiting missionaries and campus staff speak to the whole student body.

Afternoon Work Program: Another significant part of your time at Emanate will involve the afternoon work program. AWP, as we call it, is for both men and women (without children) and takes place Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:30 to 5pm. The purpose of AWP is to help facilitate the ministries of this campus through cleaning, maintenance and work projects. Our heart is that in the midst of this work, principles of teamwork, service and discipleship are fostered.

Where do students live?

Emanate provides apartments to rent at low cost (rent is part of the tuition costs) for students going through the training. All apartments are on the same property and fully furnished. Students are welcome to bring their own furniture or use the furniture provided. Laundry is also included in the rent payment and is available on campus.

What is the community like?

There are many churches in Durham and the surrounding area that welcome Emanate students. The amount that one could be involved is only limited to the amount of time one is able to put into it. Many students have created good and lasting relationships with the churches they attended during their time in the training.

Ethnos Canada Academy

We have a great diversity in our student body here at Emanate. From single men and women to young families and older families. For many of our older couples, the schooling of their children is a significant need. On the campus we have the Academy, which is a school that provides quality education from a Christian perspective for the children of Emanate students and some home staff.

Cost for Ethnos Canada Academy:

• $125 per semester per below-school-aged child for Childcare
• Grade K: $ 50/month each child
• Grades 1 – 8: $100/month each child
• Grades 9 – 12: $120/month each child

Should I try to work while attending Emanate?

Because so much of the students’ time is spent in class, on Afternoon Work Program, and doing homework, it is highly suggested that you do not work while you are part of the training. This allows students to focus on the training that they are receiving. This also opens up opportunities to be involved with church and the community.

Jungle Camp Practicum (Summer)

Jungle Camp Technology: Learn the basics of solar energy, water filtration and basic indoor plumbing which will make life and ministry in cross-cultural settings more efficient.

Round Wood Construction: Using only hand tools, construct a temporary, habitable structure out of unmilled poles, plastic and screening based on plans you have prepared. Include a clay cook stove and all necessary furniture. Remain within the stated guidelines and practice teamwork principles as you build.

Living Basic: Spend four weeks in your temporary round wood home having brought everything necessary for life during that time. Practice simple daily life skills such as cutting firewood, cooking with wood, and doing laundry by hand. Experience the isolation that comes from life without modern communication.

Directed Studies: Schedule six hours of study time per day over a period of four days. Study the Bible and other materials that are provided. Meet with another student daily to reflect on that day’s study time.

Trekking Essentials: Challenge yourself with a rigorous multi-day hike. Prepare and plan your food and essential gear in teams. Learn resilience through carrying a pack over difficult terrain.

Take the Next Step

The goal of Ethnos360 is to establish a thriving church for every people. We know that church planting involves many hardships. This is why Emanate was established: to provide effective training to equip those going in cross-cultural missions. Be discipled by experienced missionaries while taking language and missional studies. Be prepared in taking the Gospel to the unreached.

Wondering how to get cross-cultural missions training? Fill out an online application.

For more information, contact the Connection Center:

Tel: 519-369-2622
Fax: 519-369-5828
connect@canada.ntm.org
313363 Hwy 6 S. Durham, ON

What is the MTC about and why should I go?

The Bible is clear that each believer is responsible in the work of world evangelism, and this is the vision of Ethnos360: a thriving church for every people. The Missionary Training Center (MTC), located in Camdenton, Missouri, is a program of Ethnos360 and has the primary focus of properly preparing missionaries for ministry. The four-semester course equips attendees for every aspect of life in a cross-cultural setting. Learn how to live in a different culture, how to learn languages without any outside help, how to teach the Bible chronologically, and how to thrive in adverse regions of the world.

What are the prerequisites needed before attending the MTC?

You need a minimum of two years of Bible training or the equivalent. Ethnos360 Bible Institute exists to provide this training, but the requirement also may be met by Bible or Christian college courses, equivalent training in a local church, or life experience.

What experience does the staff bring to the training?

There are currently 60 experienced missionary families or individuals serving at Ethnos360’s Missionary Training Center who are passionate about teaching field-proven methods that are constantly updated to remain effective and relevant.

Everyone on the Training Center staff brings first-hand experience to the specialized training you receive, offering both the practical and spiritual preparation you need to become an important part of the team that is planting tribal churches.

What is the cost?

We’ve eliminated the single largest cost at most educational institutions: staff salaries. All of our staff are missionaries, supported by churches and individuals with a vision of helping you learn what you need in order to join the church planting team.

Fees per semester:

• Singles: $3,091
• Married couples without children: $6,182
• Married couples with one child: $6,432
• Married couples with two children: $6,572
• Married couples with three children: $6,721
• For each additional child, $140

These payments include housing, utilities, use of laundry facilities, student activities, registration, course fees, administration, DSL and telephones, Student Accident Insurance (billed for entire year), etc. They do not include personal expenses or food, or the costs detailed below.

Other costs

• Books, supplies and materials: Approximately, $100 for 1^st & 3^rd semester.  Second Semester is $200 and Fourth Semester is $300.
• Childcare: $400 for each child per semester
• Graduation: $50 (final semester only)
• Housing deposit: $500 (refundable) due 3 months before the start of classes.

What is the schedule like each day?

Structured classes run from 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday. Childcare is provided 8:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. From 1:30 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, various activities take place, including classes, personal development, community outreach, and campus ministries.

How long is the MTC program?

The church planting course is a four semester course. Semesters are 18 weeks in length and allow for holiday and summer breaks.

What courses does the MTC go through?

• Church Planting: Worldview, New Testament Church Principles, Practical Ministry Skills, Folk Religions, Curriculum Development, Evangelism, The Mature Church Model
• Christian Living: Foundational Bible Teaching, Teamwork, Stewardship of Life and Resources, Discipleship, Effective Parenting, Conflict Resolution
• Culture and Language Acquisition: Phonetics, Culture and Language Methodology, Animism, Grammar, Semantics and Translation, Literacy, Phonemics
• Complementary Courses: Missionary Health and Wellness, Missionary Technology, Safety, Learning Styles, Communication Skills

For descriptions of these courses go to: https://ethnos360.org/training/missionary-training-center/academics

What is campus life like?

Twice a week, the student body meets for a time of corporate prayer, worship and teaching. The style and format of chapel services vary from guest speakers, praise and worship, testimonies, updates and information related to campus living, among others. The Student Life Department may also teach and exhort from God’s Word as it relates to various student life activity and ministries.

What is the community like?

The MTC is in a strategically placed 350-acre campus to make the most out of the intense training. The semi-isolated property creates a tight-knit community but is also accessible for ministry opportunities in the surrounding area.

Where do students live?

You’ll be assigned on-campus housing based on your family size and specific needs. The housing is designed as a community, promoting interaction among staff and students. Each apartment has a phone and DSL connection, and wireless is available throughout the campus. Each apartment has a kitchen; there are no campus dining facilities. You will need to provide your own linens, and may use your own furniture or furniture available on campus.

Does the MTC provide childcare?

Childcare is normally offered for all young children, from nursery through pre-school. If childcare is not an option due to sickness or lack of personnel, students are able to stay up to date with the classes through cry rooms and/or video streaming. Childcare is a cooperative effort between all student mothers and staff ladies. Childcare runs during the morning class time: from 8:15 a.m.-12:05 p.m., all semester.

Should I try to work while attending the MTC?

It is recommended to not have a job due to the intense training that takes place, but it is still allowed. Students choosing employment outside of the MTC are expected to fulfill all training requirements:

• Class responsibilities
• Extracurricular responsibilities which generally take place during weekday afternoons but include some time during evenings and weekends.

Post-Graduate Linguistics Specialist

Additional language analysis training is available for those who qualify. This 28-credit course goes into classes such as Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Applied Linguistics, Advanced Linguistics Issues, Applied Phonology, and Applied Grammar.

Post-Graduate Tech Specialist

Extensive technician training is also offered through a 20-credit program in the following areas: Solar Electric Technology, Power Systems, Equipment Maintenance, and Construction Skills.

Take the Next Step

The Missionary Training Center exists to establish a thriving church for every people. With experienced staff, a tight-knit community, and in-depth courses, each person who attends here will be prepared to effectively take the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

To apply to the MTC, fill out a preliminary questionnaire online.

For more information, contact the Connection Center:

Leadership is a role of man and differs depending on the context of relationship. Husbands are to lead their wives; church leaders are to guide their church members. However, all men should be living lives that lead others to Christ.

Man’s role of leadership started back in the Garden of Eden according to Genesis 2. We find this evidence by the order of creation and the responsibility that God entrusted to the first man, Adam.

“For Adam was formed first, then Eve.” 1 Timothy 2:13 (NIV)

By no means does this mean women are inferior, but merely points to the fact that God has given men and women different roles.

So how do men execute their role of leadership? Thankfully the Lord has given us men a perfect example of leadership by how Jesus lived when He walked the earth. Though Adam failed in this role, Jesus came in the form of a man and showed us how to lead. He showed this through His spiritual, relational and emotional leadership.

Christ as a Spiritual Leader

The nation of Israel was in great need of true spiritual leadership. For hundreds of years they were under the Pharisee rule who sought righteousness through works and outward appearance. Always trying to get rid of the symptoms of sin, but never attacking its roots. Jesus challenged this view and taught His followers what it truly meant to follow God. One of the most poignant examples occurs during the sermon on the mount where He showed the shortcomings of current cultural understandings.

“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgement’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgement.”  Matthew 5:21-22 (NIV)

By only dealing with the outward expression of a problem, you don’t truly cure the root cause. Jesus points this inconsistency out with not only the symbiotic relationship between murder and anger, but also with lust and adultery, divorce and many more subjects of wrong thinking.

This is only one of many examples of Christ’s spiritual leadership you can find in the gospels. In fact, you find that Jesus continually challenges cultural norms in order to attack the true spiritual problem. He is a spiritual leader who doesn’t conform to the dictates of culture. This is what men are called to do. To lead not only your families, but also your friends and the people around you to see the bigger picture.

So, how do you do this? You study and know the Word of God. With knowledge, you can discern spiritual concerns and lead people to a better understanding.

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV)

Therefore, as a man you must know the Bible and through that come to a greater understanding of God as well! With this continual increase in the intimacy within your relationship with Him, you can be best suited to lead people on a spiritual level.

Christ as a Relational Leader

Christ had many followers, the closest of which were His twelve disciples. The relationship between these men is an example of how you should interact as brothers in Christ. Jesus shows us that the center of any relationship should be . . . love.

However, in the traditional sense of masculinity, men are supposed to cringe at that word. Our culture has taught you to have a façade of strength and that men are supposed to be invincible. Christ abolishes this view with the tender nature He uses to treat His disciples.

See how John continually refers to himself as “the one whom Jesus loved.” And Peter, the one whom Jesus asked three times whether or not he loved Him. Jesus’ relationship with His disciples is one characterized by intimacy and vulnerability.

Therefore, you should stop trying to be islands in this world. Stop hiding our true feelings behind walls as impenetrable as Alcatraz. You need to be vulnerable with each other and allow others to speak into your life. It isn’t soft or weak to be vulnerable, in fact it’s one of the bravest things to do.

And when another man comes to you in openness, be prepared to be that Spiritual Leader. These two ideas of Christ-like masculinity, being both a Spiritual and Relational leader, go hand-in-hand. Be man enough to take the reins, but also be man enough to realize you don’t have it all together.

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. ³By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 (NIV)

Christ as an Emotional Leader

As men, you are told not to cry, you are told not to show emotion, you are told that emotion is weakness and weakness is the enemy of masculinity. This is not true! The gospels paint a picture of Christ whose emotions were set free. Jesus was filled with zeal, He felt the very depths of sorrow, He groaned in agony and He felt immense joy.

That’s not to say less emotionally inclined guys are any less men, but that there’s nothing wrong in being open to other people. As an emotional leader, you must discern the situation in which you find yourself and tend to the emotional and spiritual needs of those around you. Whether that means restraining your feelings or putting them on display.

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15 (NIV)

Christ shows you not only what it means to be a man, but what it means to be human. One of His greatest displays of emotion was at Lazarus’ death.

“When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled . . . Jesus wept. Then the Jews said, ‘See how he loved him!’”

A few verses later it says that Jesus was “deeply moved,” or as the King James Version translated it as “groaning in himself.” This paints a vivid picture of the depths of His sorrow. There were many more events where Jesus shows you the extent of His emotion, from His zealous anger to His jubilant joy.