East European Missions Network

Learn more about the Daily Bible School

polish lutheran bible school

“Szkola Biblijna” in Poland
By Pastor Tim Hinrichs

Lutherans in Poland? Yes! Believe it or not! And seeking to encourage renewal in the Lutheran church of Poland is one of the main goals of the Bible School located in the southern border village of Dziegielów, southwest of Bielsko-Biala.

Since 1998 the Bible school has been discipling students and enrollment has grown steadily since then.

A second program the Bible school offers is a two year program operating on Saturdays. Students come from all ages and backgrounds to attend classes from morning until night. Also offered is a third year of practical studies. 

The school exists today based on the prayers of leaders going back as far as 50 years ago. Today volunteer faculty are planting seeds in those who can be used by God to bring renewal within the Lutheran church and in Poland. Thank you for your prayers for this open door!

The Bible school is an exciting ministry in a country that is in great need of spiritual revival. Most of the people who are involved in Bible school are simply hungry for the Word of God – a hunger which a 15 minute sermon once a week does not satisfy. The Polish Lutheran Church is largely clergy oriented and a great minority in a country which is largely Catholic. Therefore, putting the Word and the challenge to serve the Lord in the hands of lay people is an important part of the Bible school. Many of the Daily Bible school graduates have gone on to seminary in order to be future leaders in the church.

Today the Bible school has developed into three systems of study:

1. The first is the Daily Bible school, which is a one year resident program. Students have classes Monday to Friday with mainly a focus on the study of various books of the Bible but also they have practical training for ministry, as well as doctrine, history, missions, and other classes. They are also involved in outreach to youth and children during Advent and Lent travelling to various congregations and schools in order to share about the Lord. Most of these students are post-high school preparing for future studies.
2. A second program is the Saturday Bible school which lasts for two years. Students meet twice a month on Saturdays (for 12 hours!). This is a program for those who work, have families or other commitments which they cannot leave during the week. The students finish two years of study which covers almost all the books of the Bible.
3. A 3rd year of specialized training has recently started in preaching/evangelism for those who graduate from the Saturday Bible school and want to be better equipped in practical ways for ministry. One or two more specializations are planned for the future.