South American Nazarene Theological Seminary celebrated its 28th graduation ceremony November 18 as 33 students finalized their basic studies and bachelor’s degrees in theology. About 500 people attended the cermony.

Seminary President David Lemache recognized Agustin Jaime Mantilla as the student with the highest academic average. Mantilla completed his basic studies in theology through the Venezuela Andino District's decentralized theological education center. Loiberis Cordero, a member of the Board of Regents, received the award on behalf of Mantilla, who could not attend the ceremony for economic reasons. Leaders then prayed for Mantilla and all the people of Venezuela experiencing economic difficulties.

During the ministerial charge, faculty members, the Board of Regents, and professors prayed that the Lord would use the students in powerful ways.

The seminary currently has about 1,300 students and is committed to carrying out its mission to make Christlike ministers.

--Church of the Nazarene South America Region