Spanish Eastern Bible College: Equipping a New Generation of Spirit-Empowered Leaders
For nearly four decades, Spanish Eastern Bible College (SEBC) has been preparing Hispanic leaders to serve in ministry, discipleship, and Christian leadership across the U.S. Assemblies of God’s Spanish Eastern District. With roots reaching back 90 years, SEBC remains one of the movement’s most transformative—yet lesser-known—institutions. That, however, is rapidly changing.
Founded in 1985, SEBC now serves more than 400 students from 16 states stretching from Maine to Tennessee. With classes offered in both Spanish and English, it has become a vital training ground for a growing and diverse body of believers.
“Our mission is anchored in biblical teaching, spiritual formation, and academic excellence,” says Daniel De Jesús, director of education. “We exist to equip leaders who can thrive in ministry without stepping away from their callings or everyday responsibilities.”
Academic Growth and Ministerial Impact
Last year alone, 91 students received official ministerial credentials, with many others pursuing associate and bachelor’s degrees in Bible, theology, and Christian education through a partnership with Global University.
Since joining the AG Alliance for Higher Education in 2023 and initiating its pursuit of accreditation with the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), SEBC’s reach has only expanded. Superintendent Manuel Álvarez, who also chairs SEBC’s board, calls the move “a dream come true.”
Though rooted in the Bronx, SEBC quickly adapted to virtual instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, distance learning remains its primary method of delivery—a key factor in its continued accessibility and growth.
Leadership with Vision
De Jesús, who has served since 2019, brings both pastoral and academic experience to the role, supported by a seasoned faculty of ministers and educators. Under his leadership, the school has updated its infrastructure, created a formal constitution, and aligned more closely with the district’s vision.
Many SEBC students are mid-career professionals who feel God’s call into deeper ministry. Some begin studying simply to understand Scripture more deeply—only to discover a divine prompting toward pastoring, teaching, missions, or evangelism.
“SEBC is not just about education,” says Álvarez. “It’s about helping students recognize God’s purpose for their lives while receiving Spirit-filled, practical training.”
A Legacy and Future of Transformation
The roots of SEBC trace back to a 1935 Bible institute supported by 72 local churches, which still serves as a pipeline for students entering the college. Today, up to 29 credits from the institute can be applied toward SEBC degrees—providing an accessible and robust path for ministry preparation.
Having rebranded from the Spanish Eastern School of Theology in 2022, SEBC continues to reflect its mission: to empower Hispanic believers for Kingdom impact.
With accreditation on the horizon and ambitions to offer advanced degrees, the future is bright.
“We’re just scratching the surface of SEBC’s potential,” says De Jesús. “This is only the beginning.”
