TCI Expands Christian Leader Training in 10×40 Window
It is a great blessing for TCI to be among the first schools in Azerbaijan to offer a fundamental Christian leader education program. Our goal has always been to serve as an instrument in God’s hands, forming and equipping Christian leaders in post-USSR countries.
During our meetings with church pastors, we repeatedly hear a common request: “We need you here to train us.” It brings us immense joy to see how God has led us to this nation, where we can make a meaningful impact. In response to this need, we are actively working toward launching a full bachelor’s degree program for pastors and local church leaders.
Azerbaijan, a nation of over 10 million people, is predominantly Muslim, with evangelical Christians making up only about 0.3% of the population. While open persecution has diminished compared to past years, Christians still face challenges and harassment in daily life. For instance, due to strict state regulations, many churches cannot obtain official registration. As a result, several congregations must share spaces for worship.
Our good friend, Pastor Emil, who leads the largest church in Azerbaijan, holds services in an old Lutheran church that the communist government confiscated in the past. The church now serves as a music school, but the new government allows it to be used for the local Christian community. Various churches meet in this building at different times, as renting a separate facility without government approval remains impossible.
We are deeply grateful to our supporters who made TCI’s theological training program in Azerbaijan possible! Through their generosity during our Christmas fundraiser, TCI students in Azerbaijan are now receiving the biblical and ministry education they need to share the Gospel in one of the world’s most spiritually challenging regions.
Despite government restrictions, these courageous students continue to gather, eager to learn and deepen their faith. Thanks to our donors’ Christmas contributions, we were able to fully fund the January class and secure resources for all upcoming courses through June—a milestone we could only achieve through the faithfulness of our partners. While this year’s immediate needs are covered, sustaining this work long-term will require ongoing support. We are especially thankful for those who have chosen to support students through monthly giving or one-time gifts that cover a full year of training.
During the January class, students were especially encouraged by their professor, a TCI graduate from Central Asia, who has come alongside them to equip and mentor them for ministry.