Dear members of the ACTS Seminaries community,

As the presidents of the ACTS Seminaries’ four partner seminaries— Canadian Baptist Seminary (CBS), Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary (MBS), Northwest Baptist Seminary (NBS), and Trinity Western Seminary (TWS)—we are writing to offer a joint statement about the future of theological education  involving ACTS Seminaries and the development of the new School of Theology at Trinity Western University (TWU). We also want to express our deep gratitude for all that God has accomplished through ACTS over nearly four decades and to share our collective hope for what lies ahead.

Since its founding in 1989, ACTS Seminaries has served as a distinctive consortium of theological schools, united by a shared mission to prepare and equip men and women for transformative ministry in churches, communities, and mission fields across Canada and around the world. Over the decades, ACTS has provided a collaborative model of theological education that reflects the rich diversity and unity of the evangelical church.

In March 2024, the ACTS Board of Directors and partner seminaries engaged in a process of discernment about the most sustainable path forward for theological education in the years ahead. Following careful evaluation, the Board made the decision that the ACTS consortium would dissolve as a society while its accreditation would be transferred to Trinity Western University (TWU), enabling TWU to open a new School of Theology. A petition was then submitted to the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) for approval of the transfer of ACTS’ leadership, accreditation and governance to TWU. That petition was approved.

Then, in late 2024, the board of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) approached TWU to explore the possibility of transitioning TEDS to TWU, as both institutions share a common heritage within the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA) and Evangelical Free Church of Canada (EFCC). TEDS and TWU uphold the same doctrinal commitments and maintain strongly aligned values, making this transition both a strategic and ideal fit. This has led to the developments in 2025, when TWU began planning the launch of a new School of Theology—set to open fall 2026—that will extend the legacies and academic excellence of both ACTS and TEDS.

As seminary presidents, we are deeply grateful for the remarkable legacy that ACTS has built over nearly four decades of ministry. Since 1989, ACTS, in partnership with TWU, has granted 2,023 diplomas to 1,953 graduates—ranging from certificates to full master’s and doctoral degrees. These graduates now serve in churches, mission organizations, classrooms, and communities across Canada and around the world, embodying the gospel and the vision that first brought our schools together in partnership.

We also want to acknowledge the extraordinary faculty and staff who have served through each of the partner seminaries within the ACTS consortium. Representing CBS, MBS, NBS , and TWS. These dedicated men and women have demonstrated academic excellence, pastoral wisdom, and steadfast service to students, colleagues,  and the wider church. The faculty have modeled exceptional teaching, mentorship, and scholarship—shaping generations of leaders and enriching the theological community across Canada and beyond. The staff, both within ACTS and in each seminary, have provided the essential administrative and operational support that has sustained our shared work and ensured a high-quality experience for students over many years. We are profoundly grateful for the faithful partnership of all who have served in these vital roles.

While the governance structure of ACTS will conclude, the spirit of partnership and cooperation remains important. We anticipate continued collegial relationships focused on strengthening graduate theological education in Canada and supporting the training of pastors, scholars, and ministry leaders who serve the local and global Church.

All current students will have clear and supported pathways to complete their academic programs—either during the fall 2025 and spring 2026 semesters at ACTS Seminaries, or through the new TWU School of Theology starting fall 2026. Moreover, each seminary will continue to serve its denominational communities with excellence and innovation.

To celebrate the remarkable legacy of ACTS Seminaries, a special event will be held in spring 2026 to give thanks to God for all He has done through ACTS and to honour the many people who have contributed to its mission.

With thanks to each one who serves in the ACTS community,

Dr. Kevin Schular
President, Canadian Baptist Seminary

Dr. Mark Wessner
President, Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary

Dr. Barton Priebe
President, Northwest Baptist Seminary

Dr. Todd F. Martin
President, Trinity Western Seminary