Our passion is and always has been to train pastors. And beginning in 2022, we are taking that passion in a new direction. We will continue to do the things we have always done, but now we want to add one more thing.
The doctoral dissertation research we conducted before the pandemic demonstrated the incredible need for formal training among Costa Rican pastors. And while The Brook provides nonformal training, we are big believers in the value of formal training provided by Christian universities and seminaries.
In a recent conversation with Andrew Halbert, the director of Escuela de Estudios Pastorales (ESEPA) Seminary, we discovered that the amount of funding for scholarships is almost nonexistent. We want to change that!
As we approach the end of the year, we have set a goal to raise $20,000 by December 31, for The Brook Ministries Raven Scholarship Fund. The funds raised will be used under the direction of a special committee selected to determine the qualifications of recipients and the timing of fund disbursement.

Why Raven?
As you may recall, The Brook Ministries borrows its name from the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 17. The Lord directed Elijah to hide by the Brook Kerith, and then God sent ravens to supply him with food. Everyone needs to eat!
Even though ESEPA keeps its tuition low, many pastors still struggle with the cost of attending. An undergraduate course costs about $110, with a full degree requiring 32 courses. A graduate degree requires almost $4,000 total. Of course, compared to US prices that is a bargain, but keep in mind that the average income for a pastor in Costa Rica is typically about $1,000 per month or less. And in many cases, much less.
Of the pastors we surveyed in 2019, the majority listed time and money as the top two reasons for not pursuing their education. And time was only listed because pastors often have to work second jobs to make ends meet. So it all comes down to money.

How You Can Help?
On our donation page, you can select “Raven Scholarship Fund” next to the amount you decide to donate. If you prefer to mail a check or donate some other way, please contact us.
With your help, we will be able to significantly help four students and provide some help to another thirty students. The more we receive, the more we can do. And if you want to know more about the student pastors you are helping, we can share that information as well.

Please give today!