Two Swiss theological training institutions are joining forces with a complementary outlook with hopes to attract, inspire and bolster the numbers of younger people for pastoral training.
The brands for the Theological Seminary of St. Chrischona (TSC) based in Bettingen-St Chrischona and Institute for Community-Orientated Continuing Education (IGW) in Zurich, with campuses in Germany, will remain – as will the independent sponsoring associations of TSC, IGW Switzerland and IGW Germany – but from Jan. 2025 there be an overall management known as TSC-IGW responsible for developing both education providers.
The decision had been made on Nov. 9 (2024) with leaders on both sides signing an “agreement on a joint venture,” according to a [German language] press release.
It is hoped the two institutions will be able to play on each other’s strengths and develop joint educational offerings. A key phrase banded about in the agreement is “complementarity” with aspirations to create refreshed synergies to “train and empower people for service in church, congregations and missions.”
This is considered “an important step in view of the worsening shortage of pastoral young people,” added the press release.
“This merger is an investment in theological education for the benefit of the kingdom of God,” said Dr. Benedikt Walker, Rector TSC.
Agreement for the new arrangement happened when TSC approached the IGW at the end of last year, 2023. The former institution had been looking for partners after envisaging a part-time master’s program, a career change program and a dual study program – and wanted the IGW’s experience to help.
“Instead of rebuilding it, we wanted to break new ground and look for partners who already have experience in this,” said Walker.
IGW responded warmly and discussions ensued, resulting in the publicised agreement. Both bodies agreed there needed to be less competition and more cooperation between the training centers.
“IGW and TSC share the same passion: that people find their calling in the kingdom of God and follow it,” said Ruedi Röthenmund, Co-Rector IGW.
“We combine the best of both worlds,” agreed Daniel Janzen, Co-Rector of the IGW.
Thomas Rudin, President of the TSC Club, called the decision in favour of the merger a “historic moment.”
“This allows us to offer our municipalities and associations optimal offers for their young people,” said Fritz Peyer, IGW president.
For current students the merger will not immediately affect them but over time the synergy developed will present new advantages and opportunities.
Particular strengths between the two theological studies are dual theological training pioneered by the IGW whereas TSC is strong in the holistic educational offer presented in the onsite community at the Chrischona Berg.
“In the future, the TSC and IGW will be able to offer the entire spectrum of theological education together,” added the press release.
Further details are available at: https://igw.edu/tsc/
