Policy Statement

Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary (GGBTS) is an institution established by the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) to train men and women for Christian ministry. As such, GGBTS will, as much as possible, reflect the beliefs and practices of the Southern Baptist Convention as stated in the 1963 Baptist Faith and Message* adopted by the SBC. Accordingly, GGBTS will offer programs and courses that train men and women for ministry in the churches and agencies of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary recognizes that each church has the responsibility for ordaining individuals for ministry, as well as hiring of its own staff personnel. Accordingly, GGBTS accepts its own role to be available to all who are recommended by the churches for training, provided they meet the standard entrance requirements and maintain their academic standing.

Counseling will be provided at the Seminary to encourage students to prepare for areas of ministry where they are likely to find productive ministry and employment in the churches and denominational agencies. This counseling service will be constructive and will be characterized by integrity and honesty. For example, a student will not be denied the opportunity to enroll in any course or program offered by the Seminary {for which the student is qualified}. However, information will be made available regarding prevailing Baptist belief and practice about men and women in Christian ministry and vocation that may affect ministry opportunities in the SBC.

The mission of GGBTS is to provide theological education that meets the academic and practical needs for trained leadership in the churches and denominational agencies of the SBC. Therefore, GGBTS will attempt to reflect the mainstream theological beliefs within the denomination and employ professors and staff who represent the mainstream of Southern Baptist life.

Adopted Spring 1993 by the Board of Trustees

*The current guiding document for the Seminary regarding the common beliefs and practices of the churches of the SBC is the 2000 Baptist Faith and Message.