IRBS Theological Seminary
The Institute of Reformed Baptist Studies (IRBS) Theological Seminary is a full residential seminary, teaching reformed theology under its president, James M. Renihan Ph.D. The seminary was established in 2017 by the Association of Reformed Baptist Churches of America (ARBCA). Considering the impact reformed theology has had, and the apparent importance of its continuance, the ARBCA took the step of establishing the seminary as the first of its kind to train new ministers.[1] There is currently no other full residential reformed seminary in operation in the United States. It subscribes to the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689.[2]
IRBS has also begun publishing a journal, in which they also work to teach advanced theology.[3]
Growth plans
The following are planned/projected dates for the growth of the IRBS seminary.
- Fall 2018 â Spring 2021: First students admitted and trained, while the seminary is located at Heritage Baptist Church in Mansfield, Texas. The first class studies and graduates during this time.
- Spring 2021 â Spring 2024: Work on becoming accredited, move to leased space in Mansfield, Texas, and increase library size to about 17,500 volumes.
- Fall 2024 â Spring 2027: Increase core faculty to seven, move to dedicated space owned by IRBS, and increase the library to about 20,000 volumes.