International Seminary for Theology and Leadership
Equipping leaders with Theology to reach Europe for Christ
ISTL represents a new way of studying theology. We combine rigorous study with a spiritually dynamic school culture. We believe innovative thinking and a burning heart for the world should go hand in hand. ISTL is thus a missions organization and seminary wrapped up in one.
Our approach to education insists that theology is better when shared with others. Students today are hungry not just for information, but for community and interaction. Further, students should be able to practice what they are learning. Thus from day one at ISTL, they receive credit for their work in their local church. Lecturers at the seminary and Local Pastors enter a partnership in each student´s education. These partnerships enable the students to develop competences that ground their theology in reality. This also involves developing creative ways to bring the good news of Christ to the streets every week.
Started with a handful of students in 2005 in Zurich, ISTL now aims to have mini campuses all across the world. Our current campuses are connected through friendship, a shared theological vision, and common core values and beliefs.
Mission Statement
Sound theological studies in an inspiring culture
Our vision is to witness thousands of young leaders wholeheartedly commited to God's mission, and to see new spiritual awakenings in non-churched cities and communities.
The goal of ISTL is to train pastors, leaders and church planters in their local context. We already have seen a growing passion from young people in Europe to fulfill Jesus 'Great Commission. The studies and training at our school qualifies them for full-time ministry. For this reason, theologial education is combined with an emphasis on Christ-like values, character development, and Evangelism.
Training concept – Churches are actively involved in the training of students
Theological Training is embedded in the context of the local church.
Our Focus on Germany
Germany – once the bastion of the Christian faith and the origin of the protestant reformation, now resembles in large part a spiritual desert. In Eastern Germany, less than 1% of the population is following Jesus!
Our dream is to launch a new ISTL campus in every major city in the German-speaking world. We want all Christians in the German-speaking world to have the opportunity to study theology and the Bible in an affordable way. Yet because of the need for workers in the church, we also want these Christians to continue to serve in their local churches. Churches will be able to train their young leaders. Pastors and leaders can help to establish their own theological school in their city.
By investing in the education of hundreds of young leaders for full-time ministry, over the next few years they can be strengthened and empowered to spread the powerful message of Christ in Germany.
Become a partner in our mission
We believe our future leaders should not be overburdened by financial debt. ISTL Students can receive an accredited Bachelors degree in Theology for 200 euro per month. To realize this vision, each of our employees raise funds to support this mission.
We thus need missionary partners who are willing to donate to continue this great work.
This pioneering work takes a lot of courage from our employees and students – when we start a new campus, we're starting empty-handed. Yet we are thankful for the but we feel an urge to go in that direction.
Every bit helps. To make a one-time donation, or a recurring donation, click or scan.
All donations are tax-deductible in the US. Donations can also be sent by check (Memo: „Germany“) to:
Epos International, Inc PO Box 23324, Chattanooga TN 37422 Epos International is a registered 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.
A total donation receipt will be sent at the end of the fiscal year.
+1-423-313-2815 www.eposinternational.org
Do you have a group of students or a team in your church passionate about innovative theological education in a mission-oriented environment? Reach out to us about organizing a visit in person, or digitally at one of our locations!
