PTS inaugurates Hindi Diploma Program. The much-awaited Graduate of Theology diploma program in Hindi was inaugurated on 31 Jan 2009 at a simple function held in the Academic Center on campus. Five students are enrolled in the first batch, with classes meeting on Saturdays.

The program is designed to be as flexible as possible to suit the convenience of different kinds of students. According to Principal Dr. Mohan Chacko, another batch can begin any time when there is a sufficient number. The courses are drawn up particularly to equip those interested in rural church planting ministries. They will also help those who want to minister more effectively in their local churches.

The beginning of this program is the fulfillment of the desire of many on the board of PTS as well as pastors of local churches. In his inaugural address, the Principal pointed out that while the Seminary has been a blessing to churches all over India, the original purpose of the Seminary was to prepare leaders for the church in north India.

Mr. Subhash Singh, a recent graduate of PTS, was appointed as Coordinator of this program. He has been preparing teaching material and other things since May 2008

The Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church  North East India: Vice Principal Rev. L. Roshyama Hrangchal attended the 13th Synod of the RPCNEI in Manipur during 19-25 January 2009 and ministered God's Word on several occasions. Out of the 38 ordained ministers present this year, 16 are PTS alumni including three recent graduates who were ordained during the Synod namely, Mr. Lalngailien Puruolte, Mr. Joel T Khobung and Mr. Chawngrosiem. RPCNEI regularly sends 2-4 students every year to PTS. Our graduates occupy important positions in the ministry of RPCNEI.

Fortieth Anniversary Celebrations Started: On the evening of February 1, a thanksgiving worship and celebration was held on campus along with Covenant RPC to mark the formation of PTS. The decision to start a Seminary under an independent Board was made by a joint meeting of the North India Presbytery (Bible Presbyterian) and the Saharanpur Presbytery (Reformed Presbyterian) on February 1, 1969. Later, these denominations merged resulting in the Reformed Presbyterian Church of India. Rev. Frank Fiol was the first President of the Board, and Rev. Dr. Richard Strom was designated as the first Principal.

During the celebration, Dr. Mohan Chacko, Principal, brought the Word based on Psalm 78:18. He also narrated the events leading to the beginning of the Seminary based on the book Tell the Next Generation, by Richard and Donna Strom.

A number of activities and projects have been planned for the anniversary celebration. All alumni are invited for a Conference during graduation week. Former teacher, Dr. Bruce Fiol will minister the Word at the Conference. For information on projects and how to send donations, please contact the Vice-Principal.

Visitors: Dr. George Omerly, accompanied by his wife, and Dr. Joseph Park from the US are at the moment visiting PTS and teaching short courses.

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Projects:
A mini bus (tempo traveler): A mini bus is needed to be used for outreach ministries, class related and for official purposes. We would like to have by February 2009. The cost is about Rs. 865,000. This is the main fundraising project for the 40th Anniversary of PTS.

Student Support: There are several student candidates who are in need of support. Sponsor a student for 4 or 3 years by investing Rs. 55,000 or US $ 1,222 (M.Div), Rs. 45,000 or US $ 1000 (B.Th) per year as full support to cover tuition and boarding, or any amount as partial help.

Faculty Apartment Repair: The floor of one apartment sank in the living room and bedroom when there was earthquake few years ago. The floors need to be re-made with marble chips. The cost of the project is Rs. 60,000/-

Widening of the canal: The rainwater drainage 77 ft length need to be constructed with brick and cement as the present canal is not able to contain the rain water. As a result, the overflowing water damaged the public road and the neighbor's boundary walls. The cost of the project is Rs. 40,000/-

Gifts and donations indicating its purpose can be sent to any of the following:
• Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Saving Bank Acct No. 306802010008768, Union Bank of India, Dehradun. Swift Code No. UBININBBDER, IFSC: UBIN0530689

• MTW, 1600 North Brown Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30043, USA.

• ARMA, 12964 N. Bellwood, Holland, MI 49424, USA