Educate · Equip · Empower

Theological education,
without borders.

A Spirit-led, multicultural school preparing believers worldwide for ministry, mission, and leadership — delivered fully online, from Edmonton to the nations.

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Why Maranatha

Built for those already living the call

Our students are pastors, parents, professionals, and emerging leaders. The school is designed around their lives, not the other way around.

Fully online

Study from anywhere in the world, without relocating, while maintaining high academic standards.

Laddered programs

Certificate to Diploma to B.Th. to M.Div. — every credit you earn transfers seamlessly upward.

Multicultural roots

Grounded in a Spirit-filled church serving many cultures and languages, united in Christ.

Ready for ministry

Graduates are prepared for pastoral ministry, mission, chaplaincy, and leadership globally.

The Laddered Pathway

One pathway. Four exit points. No credit lost.

Start where you are and climb as far as you're called. Each credential stands on its own — and carries fully into the next.

01

Certificate in Theology

1 year · foundational biblical literacy & ministry skills
30credits
02

Diploma in Theology

2 years · Scripture, doctrine, ethics, church history & pastoral care
60credits
03

Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.)

3 years · advanced biblical studies, leadership & research
96credits
04

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

2–3 years · professional graduate formation for ministry leadership
72–108credits
✓ No loss of credits
✓ No duplicated coursework
✓ Clear exit & re-entry pathway
Programs

Progressive credentials, coherent at every level

Each program integrates Scripture, theology, church history, ethics, and practical ministry — with particular attention to Canadian and North American contexts.

Exit after Year 1

Certificate in Theology

1 Year30 Credits

Foundational biblical literacy, introductory theology, and entry-level ministry skills for volunteer and emerging leaders.

  • Old & New Testament Survey
  • Core Doctrines
  • Church History
  • Evangelism
Exit after Year 2

Diploma in Theology

2 Years60 Credits

A comprehensive foundation in biblical studies, theology, ethics, and ministry practice for service in churches and Christian organizations.

  • Synoptic Gospels
  • Christian Theology I–III
  • Homiletics
  • Pastoral Care
Undergraduate Degree

Bachelor of Theology

3 Years96 Credits

Advanced integration, leadership development, contextual theology, and research — comprehensive preparation for church leadership and graduate study.

  • Romans & Galatians
  • Hermeneutics
  • Leadership & Ministry
  • Research Methods
Graduate Degree

Master of Divinity

2–3 Years72–108 Credits

A professional and academic graduate program for leadership in churches, missions, chaplaincy, and community settings — with two entry streams.

  • Apologetics
  • Christian Ethics
  • Pastoral Theology
  • Capstone Project
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About Us

An educational ministry rooted in the local church

Maranatha School of Theology is the training ministry of Maranatha Gospel Fellowship — a long-standing, multicultural, Spirit-filled church in Edmonton, Alberta.

Founded in the 1970s and registered in Alberta in 1992, Maranatha is recognized as one of Edmonton's leading early multicultural Pentecostal churches. Rooted in biblical teaching and empowered by the Holy Spirit, the congregation serves a diverse community united by a shared faith in Jesus Christ.

Under the vision of the church, the School exists to educate believers in sound biblical understanding, equip ministers for effective service, and empower servants of God for local and global mission. We are affiliated with the Fellowship of Christian Assemblies, Canada, and are currently pursuing accreditation with international accrediting organizations.

Our Core Values

Biblical AuthorityScripture is the ultimate authority in faith and practice.
Spirit-Empowered MinistryFormation and ministry are guided by the Holy Spirit.
Contextual RelevanceEducation designed for diverse, multicultural, and digital contexts.
Academic ExcellenceScholarship integrated with practical ministry skills.
Servant LeadershipLeading with humility, integrity, and impact.
What We Believe

Statement of Faith

The biblical convictions upon which Maranatha School of Theology stands, teaches, and trains future servants of God.

We believe in one true God, eternally existing in three persons — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each person of the Trinity possesses fully and equally all the attributes of deity and the characteristics of personality.

We believe the Holy Bible is the inspired Word of God, infallible in the original writings, and the final authority for Christian faith, doctrine, and conduct.

We believe Jesus Christ is fully God, the living Word who became flesh through the miraculous conception by the Holy Spirit and the virgin birth. He lived a sinless life, died as a substitutionary sacrifice for the sins of humanity, rose bodily, and ascended into heaven, where He intercedes as the only mediator between God and humanity.

We believe the Holy Spirit came to glorify Christ and apply His saving work to humanity. He convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment; regenerates those who believe; and indwells and seals believers from salvation until the day of redemption. His fullness, power, and guidance are experienced through faith, prayer, and obedience.

We believe human beings were created in the image of God. Through disobedience, humanity fell into sin and became alienated from God, bringing all people under divine condemnation and making salvation necessary for reconciliation.

We believe salvation is entirely a work of God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ alone, and not by human works. God imputes His righteousness to those who trust in Christ, granting forgiveness of sins and eternal life.

We believe Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body, composed of all believers united to Him through saving faith. Every believer is called to live a holy life and to gather regularly for worship, the observance of biblical ordinances, instruction, fellowship, and mutual encouragement.

We believe Jesus Christ will return personally, visibly, and bodily to consummate history and fulfill the eternal plan of God. Every person is created to exist eternally — either separated from God because of sin, or in eternal fellowship with God through salvation in Jesus Christ.

We believe the Lord Jesus Christ has commanded all believers to proclaim the Gospel to the whole world and to make disciples of all nations.

Our Faculty

Decades of ministry, scholarship, and service

Our faculty bring pastoral experience, academic depth, and cross-cultural ministry from across Canada, the United States, the Middle East, and India.

WK
President

Dr. Wilson Kadavil

Raised in Kerala and serving in Edmonton since 1978, Dr. Kadavil holds a degree in Biblical Studies and is an ordained minister with the Fellowship of Christian Assemblies of Canada. Lead Pastor of Maranatha Church since 2006, a founding visionary of the Western Pentecostal Conference, and a published author, he is passionate about preaching and teaching God's Word.

TV
Academic Dean

Dr. Thomas Varghese

Provides academic leadership and oversight of the school's laddered curriculum, program quality, and faculty development.

KS
Administrative Dean

Rev. K. P. Samuel

With over four decades in pastoral ministry and theological education, Rev. Samuel has served as Pastor, Bible School Administrator, Academic Director, and Seminary Principal. He holds an M.Div. from the Asian Institute of Theology and an M.A. in History, and has led curriculum development and off-campus theological education across multiple institutions.

JT
Registrar

Rev. John Thomas

Holds an M.Div. from Southern Asia Bible College, Bangalore. A Licentiate Minister with experience in theological education, pastoral ministry, and ecclesial administration, including youth and Sunday School leadership.

NP
Faculty

Pr. Nelson Philip

A multidisciplinary leader holding a B.D. from Serampore University, an MSW, and an MBA. Former senior manager with Compassion and World Vision, now serving on the pastoral team of MPC and directing its Children's Church.

TO
Faculty

Pr. Toji Jacob Oommen

Holds an MBA and an M.Div., and is an ordained minister with the Church of God (Cleveland, USA). Served as Associate Pastor in Dubai and led Youth and Sunday School ministry for over 15 years.

Join the faculty

Called to teach?

We welcome qualified ministers and scholars to invest in the next generation. Reach out to learn more.

Meet the Full Faculty →
Begin Your Journey

Take the next step in your calling

Whether you're starting with a Certificate or pursuing the M.Div., our team is ready to help you find the right pathway. Request information and we'll be in touch.

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Campus
13515 – 41 Ave SW
Edmonton, AB T6Y 0H5, Canada
Email
info@maranathatheology.ca
Delivery
Fully online — students worldwide
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Programs & Laddered Pathway

Every credential, in full

Progressive, laddered credentials ensuring seamless academic progression — no credit lost, no coursework repeated, at every exit and re-entry point.

Certificate in Theology

1 YearDuration
30Credits
Yr 1Exit Point

Foundational biblical literacy, introductory theology, and entry-level ministry skills. The Certificate is the first two semesters of the Diploma in Theology, available as a standalone exit credential for volunteer and emerging leaders.

Course Structure

Semester 1 · 15 Credits
Introduction to the Old Testament3
Synoptic Gospels3
Introduction to Mission & Evangelism3
Christian Theology I3
Pentateuch3
Total15
Semester 2 · 15 Credits
Pastoral Epistles3
Hebrew Poetry & Wisdom Literature3
Minor Prophets3
Christian Theology II3
History of Christianity I: Early Church to Reformation3
Total15

Graduates Will Be Able To

  • Describe the structure, content, and major themes of selected books of the Old and New Testaments.
  • Identify foundational doctrines of the Christian faith — God, Christ, salvation, and Scripture.
  • Apply introductory principles of biblical interpretation to selected passages.
  • Summarize key events and figures in the history of Christianity from the early church to the Reformation.
  • Communicate basic biblical and theological ideas clearly, appropriate for volunteer and entry-level ministry.

Diploma in Theology

2 YearsDuration
60Credits
Yr 2Exit Point

A comprehensive foundation in biblical studies, Christian theology, church history, ethics, and ministry practice, with particular focus on Canadian and North American ministry contexts — and a laddered pathway directly into the Bachelor of Theology.

Core Curriculum Areas

Biblical Studies Theology & Ethics Christianity & History Ministry, Mission & Leadership

Course Structure

Semester 1 · 15 Credits
Introduction to the Old Testament3
Synoptic Gospels3
Introduction to Mission & Evangelism3
Christian Theology I3
Pentateuch3
Total15
Semester 2 · 15 Credits
Pastoral Epistles3
Hebrew Poetry & Wisdom Literature3
Minor Prophets3
Christian Theology II3
History of Christianity I3
Total15
Semester 3 · 15 Credits
New Testament Survey3
Christian Theology III3
History of Christianity II: Reformation to Modern Era3
Pastoral Epistles (Advanced Applications)3
World Religions & Interfaith Engagement3
Total15
Semester 4 · 15 Credits
Elective3
Hebrews & General Epistles3
Christianity in Canada & Indigenous Contexts3
Homiletics & Preaching3
Pastoral Care & Counselling3
Total15

Course Descriptions

Introduction to the Old Testament

A survey of the Old Testament with attention to historical, cultural, geographical, and theological backgrounds, emphasizing how Scripture is read, taught, and applied within contemporary North American church contexts.

Synoptic Gospels

A comparative study of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, focusing on the life, teachings, and mission of Jesus Christ, with attention to each Gospel's distinctive theological emphasis and relevance for preaching and ministry today.

Hebrew Poetry & Wisdom Literature

A study of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, and Lamentations, engaging the literary forms of Hebrew poetry and themes of suffering, worship, justice, and wisdom for contemporary Christian life.

Pastoral Epistles

An exegetical and practical study of 1–2 Timothy and Titus, focusing on leadership, pastoral responsibility, church order, and ministry ethics within present-day congregational settings.

Hebrews & General Epistles

A theological exploration of Hebrews, James, 1–2 Peter, and Jude, with emphasis on perseverance, Christology, faith and works, and Christian witness in challenging cultural contexts.

Christian Theology I–III

A three-part sequence covering theological method and the doctrine of God; Christology, Pneumatology, and the doctrine of humanity and sin; and the doctrines of Scripture, salvation, the Church, and eschatology, with reflection on ecclesiology in the North American context.

History of Christianity I & II

Traces the development of the Christian church from Pentecost through the medieval period — councils, creeds, and controversies — and then through the Protestant Reformation, revival movements, missionary expansion, and the rise of Christianity in the modern world.

World Religions & Interfaith Engagement

An overview of major world religions — Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism — emphasizing respectful dialogue, cultural understanding, and Christian witness in a multifaith society.

Christianity in Canada & Indigenous Contexts

Explores the history of Christianity in Canada, including Indigenous–Christian encounters, mission history, denominational growth, immigration, ecumenism, and reconciliation.

Homiletics & Preaching

Introduces principles of sermon preparation, biblical exposition, communication skills, and contextual preaching for contemporary congregations.

Pastoral Care & Counselling

An introduction to pastoral counselling principles, ethical boundaries, referral practices, and care for individuals and families within church and community settings.

Graduates Will Be Able To

  • Interpret biblical texts using sound hermeneutical principles and apply them to selected scriptural texts.
  • Summarize key doctrines of Christian theology and outline major developments in church history.
  • Analyze theological and ethical issues arising in contemporary ministry contexts.
  • Evaluate differing theological perspectives and ministry approaches with discernment and charity.
  • Demonstrate foundational ministry skills appropriate for church and community settings.

Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.)

3 YearsDuration
96Credits
Yr 3Award

A three-year undergraduate program providing foundational, intermediate, and advanced competencies in biblical studies, theology, church history, ethics, and ministry practice — for church leadership, ministry service, and further graduate study.

Laddered Credit Mapping

Diploma in Theology (Years 1–2, fully embedded)60
Advanced Theology & Biblical Studies (Year 3)30
Advanced Electives / Integrative Studies6
Total — Bachelor of Theology96

Year 3 Course Structure

Semester 5 · 18 Credits
Romans & Galatians3
Major Prophets3
Leadership & Ministry Management3
Christian Education & Faith Formation3
Johannine Writings3
Research Methods for Theology3
Total18
Semester 6 · 18 Credits
Acts of the Apostles3
Daniel & Revelation3
Principles of Church Growth3
Communication Theory & Digital Ministry3
Hermeneutics3
Elective3
Total18

Course Descriptions — Year 3

Romans & Galatians

A detailed study of the Pauline epistles to the Romans and Galatians, exploring their historical, theological, and ethical contexts, with emphasis on salvation, faith, grace, justification, and Christian living.

Major Prophets

A comprehensive study of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel — the historical, social, and political contexts of prophecy, and the relevance of these messages for modern Christian thought and ministry.

Leadership & Ministry Management

Introduces principles of leadership and management within church and ministry contexts — leadership styles, organizational structures, team dynamics, strategic planning, and ethical decision-making.

Christian Education & Faith Formation

Examines methods of faith formation across age groups and ministry contexts, including curriculum development, teaching biblical literacy, and fostering spiritual growth within congregations.

Johannine Writings

A study of the Gospel of John and the letters of John, discovering doctrinal truths and their relevance to the present age, with a focus on Christology.

Research Methods for Theology

An introduction to qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research applicable to theological study — formulating research questions, literature reviews, and ethical data analysis, preparing students for capstone work.

Acts of the Apostles

A detailed study of the Book of Acts — the growth of the early church, the ministry of the apostles, and the spread of the gospel — with practical application for modern church mission and leadership.

Daniel & Revelation

A study of apocalyptic literature focusing on literary structure, symbolic imagery, theological themes, and eschatological perspectives, evaluating relevance for contemporary Christian belief and practice.

Principles of Church Growth

Explores strategies for church growth in contemporary contexts — congregational assessment, evangelism, discipleship, community engagement, and cultural adaptation.

Communication Theory & Digital Ministry

Examines communication principles and digital technologies for effective ministry — crafting messages for diverse audiences and using social media responsibly.

Hermeneutics (Biblical Interpretation)

Introduces principles and methods of biblical interpretation — genre analysis, historical-critical approaches, literary methods, and responsible interpretation in multicultural, pluralistic settings.

Graduates Will Be Able To

  • Analyze the content, structure, and theological themes of Scripture using appropriate critical methods.
  • Interpret biblical texts using recognized exegetical, historical, and literary approaches.
  • Critically evaluate theological perspectives, ethical positions, and ministry models.
  • Communicate advanced biblical and theological arguments through scholarly writing, preaching, and teaching.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate ministry initiatives demonstrating integrative theological understanding and leadership.

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

2–3 YearsDuration
72–108Credits
2 StreamsEntry

A professional and academic graduate program preparing students for leadership and ministry in churches, missions, chaplaincy, and community settings, with two entry streams.

Three-Year Stream

For students holding a bachelor's degree in a non-theology discipline — 108 credits (6 semesters). Year 1 introduces foundational theological knowledge equivalent to a B.Th.; Years 2–3 focus on advanced biblical, theological, pastoral, and leadership studies.

Two-Year Stream

For students holding a B.Th. or equivalent — 72 credits (4 semesters). Direct entry into Year 2 of the M.Div., recognizing prior B.Th. coursework and ensuring a laddered progression without repetition.

Capstone Course Structure

Semester 7
Apologetics
Christian Ethics
Cult & Occult
Modern Religious & Secular Movements
Ministry Practicum
Semester 8
Pastoral Theology
Theology in Context
Research Paper (Capstone)

Course Descriptions

Apologetics

Strengthens the ability to defend the Christian faith against the questions and objections of the present day, drawing on historical, fundamental, theoretical, and practical evidences.

Christian Ethics

A study of the standards of God to help develop character, morals, and principles for good conduct with self, God, and society.

Modern Religious & Secular Movements

Introduces religious and secular developments of the modern era and their impact on social, religious, and cultural life, with biblical evaluation.

Cult & Occult

Examines major cults and the occult, developing a critical understanding and biblical principles for confronting occult practices.

Pastoral Theology

A biblical and historical introduction to the application of pastoral ministry, reflecting on timeless insight offered by well-known pastors of the Christian church.

Theology in Context

A study of major theological developments in the western hemisphere, and contextual theology in particular.

Graduates Will Be Able To

  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of Scripture across its historical, cultural, literary, and theological dimensions.
  • Apply advanced hermeneutical, exegetical, and theological methods in scholarly and pastoral contexts.
  • Evaluate differing theological perspectives and leadership models with discernment and academic rigor.
  • Integrate biblical, theological, historical, and pastoral knowledge to design effective ministry initiatives.
  • Demonstrate professional pastoral, leadership, and administrative skills for church, mission, and community settings.
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Our Faculty

Meet the full faculty

WK
President

Dr. Wilson Kadavil

Born and raised in Kerala, India, Dr. Kadavil moved to Edmonton, Canada, in 1978 with his wife, Valsamma. He worked as a Power Engineer at Imperial Oil's Strathcona Refinery until 2011 while actively serving in church ministry. He holds a degree in Biblical Studies from ICI University, Missouri, through Vanguard Bible College, Edmonton, and is an ordained minister with the Fellowship of Christian Assemblies of Canada and the New India Pentecostal Church, India. He has served in various pastoral roles across Canada and the United States, and has been Lead Pastor of Maranatha Church since December 2006. He is also a founding visionary of the Western Pentecostal Conference (WPC), established in 1988. A published author, he conducts seminars, hosts small groups, and leads worship services regularly. He and his wife are blessed with two children and four grandchildren.

TV
Academic Dean

Dr. Thomas Varghese

Provides academic leadership and oversight of the school's laddered curriculum, program quality, and faculty development.

KS
Administrative Dean

Rev. K. P. Samuel

With over four decades of experience in pastoral ministry and theological education, Rev. Samuel has held key leadership roles including Pastor, Bible School Administrator, Academic Director, and Seminary Principal. He holds a Master of Divinity from the Asian Institute of Theology, a Master of Arts in History from Annamalai University, and a Bachelor of Theology from Grace Bible College. Ordained by the Assemblies of God in 1992, and also an ordained minister of the Fellowship of Christian Assemblies of Canada, he formerly served as Director of Academics at Global University, Cochin, and as Principal of Reach Out Theological Seminary. He is married to Sosamma Samuel and is blessed with two children and two grandchildren.

JT
Registrar

Rev. John Thomas

Rev. Thomas holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Kerala and a Master of Divinity from Southern Asia Bible College, Bangalore, along with a Certificate in Christian Ministry from Grace Bible College, Gurgaon. A Licentiate Minister under the South India Assemblies of God, Central District, he has served as Associate Pastor and Minister-in-Charge, and as Administrator and Faculty Member at Grace Centre Bible Training Institute, Bangalore. He has also held leadership roles in youth ministry, Sunday School administration, and regional church governance within the Indian Pentecostal Church. He is married to Annamma John and is blessed with two sons and three grandchildren.

NP
Faculty

Pr. Nelson Philip

Nelson Philip brings a multidisciplinary background spanning theological education, social sciences, organizational leadership, and pastoral practice. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Bhopal School of Social Sciences, a Bachelor of Divinity from Serampore University, a Master of Social Work from Mohanlal Sukhadia University, and an MBA from Annamalai University. He served in senior managerial roles with Compassion for India and World Vision, and has ten years of entrepreneurial experience in Canada. He serves on the pastoral team of Maranatha Church and directs its Children's Church. He is married to Dinny Nelson, and together they have three children: Jonathan, Johan, and Jeslyn.

TO
Faculty

Pr. Toji Jacob Oommen

Pastor Oommen holds a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Divinity. He is an ordained minister with the Church of God (Cleveland, USA) and has served as Associate Pastor under the Church of God Mediterranean Region in Dubai, alongside secular work, including as Director of Youth and Sunday School for over 15 years and involvement in church governance. He is married to Neema Johnson, and they have a son.

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