We offer two tracks for people wishing to pursue further in-depth study of the Bible and Theology in a local church context.
- Center for Biblical Studies Certificate: Students have the option of receiving a certificate upon completion of 12 courses from the Center for Biblical Studies. These courses are $50 each, which includes the cost of the books and materials needed, and are not accredited.
- Crown College Degree: The Center for Biblical Studies is honored to partner with Crown College to provide affordable and accessible Bible education to the Church of Western New York. Students have the opportunity to apply up to 30 credits of CBS courses towards an undergraduate Crown College degree. This program also prepares ministry leaders to be licensed or ordained in the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. Courses marked “Crown College” cost $200, which includes the cost of the books and materials needed, and can be used towards a Crown College degree (Courses not marked are exclusively CBS courses). The average cost of an accredited college course is $900 so we are thrilled to provide this low-cost option for people pursuing formal Bible education. https://cmti.crown.edu/partners/kac
Important Details:
- There are 12 courses available per year starting every fall season.
- Each course is 6 weeks long and meets once per week either on Mondays or Wednesdays from 6:30pm-8:30pm at Kenmore Alliance Church.
- If you do not wish to do either track, we also have the option of auditing courses. This means that you pay $50 to attend the courses, receive the books and materials, but do not have to do the homework or be graded. You can choose to take any number of courses.
2022-2023 Course Offerings
Church History
January 16, 2023 - February 20, 2023
Mondays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: This course will be a chronological study of the Church throughout history, but with an emphasis on those events that were most impactful for seeing the Kingdom of God take root in our world. We will discuss the following topics, namely; 1) Beginnings: The Messiah and the New Covenant, 2) Transformation of an Empire, 3) Church vs. State, 4) Reformation, 5) The Impact of the English-Speaking Peoples, and 6) A Global Phenomenon.
Understanding the Old Testament - Crown College
January 11, 2023 - February 22, 2023
Wednesdays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: Develop skills and knowledge for interpreting and applying Old Testament literature in light of its historical context.
What you’ll learn
- Present a systematic overview of Israel’s history up to 400 BC.
- Correlate Israel’s history with the major empires of the ancient world.
- Identify the important persons, places and events of the Old Testament (OT) and explain their significance.
- Describe God’s sovereign election of the Israelites as His chosen people
- Recognize the cultural dynamics evident in the Old Testament narratives and appreciate the cultural differences between that setting and our modern world
- Apply the significant lessons of the OT to your own life.
- Become a life-long student of the Bible who enjoys reading the Scripture, intellectually interprets it, and seeks to flesh out the practical and moral teaching in the Bible.
Spiritual Formation
February 27, 2023 - April 3, 2023
Mondays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description:
Spiritual formation is the Spirit-driven activity in which believers in Jesus cooperate to have our inner life shaped to resemble the inner life of Jesus. This course will provide students with an introductory overview of the dynamics involved in this spiritual formation. Students will be able to understand and articulate a biblical theology for personal spiritual growth and renewal through the following topics:
- The purpose of the original creation of man in which humanity is made in the image of God
- The impact on the image of God caused and created by sin
- The work of redemption provides the pathway for mankind to be shaped into the likeness of Jesus
- Key verses on spiritual formation
- How the spiritual disciplines help the believer cooperate with the Spirit’s desire to shape him or her into the inner likeness of Jesus
Understanding the New Testament - Crown College
March 1, 2023 - April 5, 2023
Wednesdays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: In this course, you’ll discover the history of the New Testament and learn how to understand and apply it to your life and ministry.
What you’ll learn
- Demonstrate knowledge of the culture and historical background of the New Testament
- Acquire knowledge about the general content of the books of the New Testament including the general theological themes of each book.
- Demonstrate the ability to interpret and make valid personal application of selected New Testament texts.
- Evaluate the historical background and text of the New Testament with a view toward understanding Jesus’ mission, and the mission of the early church.
- Explain contextually the broad contours of Paul’s missionary activity and the significance of New Testament letters in the life of the early church.
Introduction to Apologetics
April 17, 2023 - May 22, 2023
Mondays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: Introduction to Christian apologetics will examine whether the claims and beliefs of Christianity are supported by real evidence and reason, or as some claim are fictions we have blindly accepted (See 1 Peter 3:15 for a Biblical direction to pursue such a study). Over six weeks we will address (at a minimum) four main questions: 1) Are there solid reasons and evidence that support the belief that there is an all-powerful being that we call God? 2) Are there solid reasons and evidence to support the belief that this all-powerful being really communicated to the human race through writings that we collectively call the Bible, and that these writings have been accurately passed on to us? 3) Are there solid reasons and evidence to support the belief that this all-powerful being appeared among us as a human being named “Jesus” (English version of His name), died, and was resurrected from the dead as confirmation of His claims? 4) If God is good and all-powerful, why does He allow evil to exist in our world?
Biblical Interpretation - Crown College
April 19, 2023 - May 24, 2023
Wednesdays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: Learn to study the Bible for yourself with confidence! You’ll gain practical experience in interpreting the Bible in this hands-on course, applying a variety of exegetical strategies to Scripture passages.
What you’ll learn
- Observe and analyze Bible passages using inductive Bible study methods.
- Understand the importance of authorial intent when interpreting Scripture.
- Interpret Bible passages in light of their historical-cultural and literary context.
- Apply Biblical principles to your personal life and social setting.
- Utilize basic reference works and study helps when interpreting Scripture.
Leading Across Cultures - Crown College
2023
Wednesdays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: Explore concepts of leadership in context of Scripture, with a focus on servant leadership and cultural intelligence. This course will help you develop as a servant leader who is aware and responsive to the cultural context in which you serve.
What you’ll learn
- Create your own definition of servant leadership incorporating a biblical worldview.
- Evaluate leadership behaviors and practices of an effective global leader.
- Define key principles and practices of leading global teams.
- Develop a strategy for improving leadership effectiveness that includes personal goals and priorities.
- Demonstrate awareness of ethical behavior from a Christian perspective.
- Apply and integrate servant leadership theory in culturally and historically diverse environments.
- Recognize and influence interconnections and diversity among global communities
Alliance Theology - Crown College
2023
Wednesdays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: The course examines the origins, growth and life of the Christian and Missionary Alliance in its historical and theological context. Special attention is paid to the denomination’s founder, theological emphases, missionary outreach, and international character. Course assignments will deepen personal understanding of key spiritual truths and the practical application of these spiritual principles within one’s life and ministry. Specific areas of study in this course include salvation, sanctification, the ministry of healing and Christ’s return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. If you are pursuing service or ordination/consecration with the Christian and Missionary Alliance, this course will meet your Alliance Polity requirement and additional assignments you’ll need for your credentialing.
What you’ll learn
- Articulate the vision, mission and passion embedded within the late nineteenth century history of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, which continues to influence its present calling.
- Identify the Alliance distinctives that have shaped its theological experience with particular attention to sanctification, healing, eschatology and missions.
- Develop understanding of the spirituality, structures and philosophy of ministry of the Christian and Missionary Alliance.
- Appreciate a broadened understanding of the work of the Alliance in the United States and throughout the world.
- Examine the historical, theological and spiritual distinctives of the Alliance.
Disordered Loves: Understanding Idolatry through C.S. Lewis’s The Great Divorce
2023
Mondays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: C.S. Lewis’ classic work of fiction The Great Divorce imagines what would happen if a group of people residing in Hell were offered a holiday on the borders of heaven. Could they bring themselves to surrender what they treasured most in order to remain? The Great Divorce uses this creative construct to examine what St. Augustine called the problem of disordered loves – that anything, no matter how noble, that we love more than God is an idol that sets our feet on the path to Hell. We will explore this core idea together by making connections between the Bible, this book, other essays by Lewis, and our own experiences. Be prepared to get on your feet and do some dramatic readings!
Evangelism And Missions - Crown College
2023
Mondays, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Room 405
Course Description: Develop a biblical philosophy and approach to evangelism and missions to help you live a life that leads others toward Jesus. You’ll study the eternal destiny of believers and non-believers, a theology of biblical evangelism and missions, and principles for effectively fulfilling the Great Commission at home and abroad. If you are pursuing service or ordination/consecration with the Christian and Missionary Alliance, several course assignments will be beneficial as you prepare to meet your district’s requirements.
What you’ll learn
- Understand the importance of key issues in the theology of evangelism and missions
- Integrate key biblical passages into a developing theology of evangelism and missions
- Evaluate present methods and models of evangelism and missions in light of Scriptural teaching and the socio-cultural context
- Synthesize course materials into a theology and philosophy of evangelism and missions that will provide a framework for a lifestyle of participating in, and leading others toward, completing the Great Commission domestically and internationally
- Apply biblical principles of evangelism and missions to one’s personal life and ministry context
KAC CBS Instructors
Hanna Brown
Johanna (Hanna) Brown received a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology with a focus on Restorative Justice policy and practice. Johanna has a diverse background in management, banking, portfolio administration and ministry. Johanna is certified with the Christian and Missionary Alliance as a Conflict Coach and Mediator. She is certified in Elder and Adult Family Mediation to help families making decisions for the elderly population. She currently serves in Court-Based Mediation for family and parenting disputes. Her passion is to help individuals, families and marriages pursue peace through the ministry of reconciliation and discipleship. Hanna's Website
johannajbrown@gmail.com
Kim Holet
Kim received her Master of Arts in Religion with a concentration in church ministries from Liberty University. She also has a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Services from the State University of New York, at Buffalo. She is the Mobilization Director at The Chapel and has taught at the Renovation Institute at The Chapel.
kholet@thechapel.com
Rev. Dr. John B. Mansfield
John received his Doctorate in Ministry from Ashland Theological Seminary (Ashland, OH), Masters in Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (Deerfield, IL), M.A.T.S. (Theological Studies) from the International School of Theology (San Bernardino, CA), and his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Religion from Boston University. He has been a Teaching Fellow at the Institute of Biblical Studies (CRU International), an Adjunct Professor in Religious Studies Program at SUNY Buffalo, an Adjust Professor in University Honors College at SUNY Buffalo, taught courses at the School of Leadership international, taught at the Ukrainian Bible Institute, and an Independent Study Instructor at SUNY Buffalo. John has served with the Epic Asian American Campus Ministry at SUNY Buffalo, and Campus Crusade for Christ. He is an Ordained Minister with the Evangelical Church Alliance (Bradley, IL). He was a chairman of the Elders at Kenmore Christian & Missionary Alliance Church (Tonawanda, NY) from 1986 to 1996.
johnman@buffalo.edu
Rev. Charles Jones
Charles currently serves as the Lead Pastor at Kenmore Alliance Church. He also serves as the Chairman of the KAC Elder Board. He received his Associates Degree in Christian Ministry from Houghton College, and is an Ordained Minister with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Charles has completed Renovation University, which is a two-year ministry cohort, with The Chapel. He has also served as a Worship Pastor at KAC, and has been a guest speaker at various venues.
charles@kenmorealliance.com
Vinh Nguyen
Vinh is currently working on his PhD specializing in New Testament Greek and Linguistics. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies and Christian Ministry from Ouachita Baptist University and an MA in Biblical Languages from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
vihn@cornerstonechurch.life
Dr. Jeffrey A. Spencer
Jeff has served as an elder on the KAC Elder Board since 2019. He received his Doctorate in Juris Prudence at the State University of New York, at Buffalo; Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs of Syracuse University; and Bachelors in Political Science at Canisius College. He currently teaches Logic at Rivendell Study Center, has taught a variety of courses at local colleges, and has been a guest lecturer at various legal organizations. Jeff, and his wife Michelle, have hosted and taught numerous Bible studies and small groups for over 30 years. He has also written an article “Evolution; Fact or Faith? A Question to the prevailing orthodoxy” at Liberty Life & Family Journal of Regent University.
jaspencer7@gmail.com
Kate Scarpena
Dr. Kate Scarpena received her Doctorate in Education from Northeastern University (Boston, MA), Master in Science in Education from Purdue University Global, (West Layfette, IN), her Master in Arts in History and her Bachelor in Arts in History and Classical Studies from the University at Buffalo. Dr. Scarpena currently serves as the Chair of a Humanities and Social Sciences Department, a unique department comprised of courses and faculty from multiple disciplines that extend across the Arts & Humanities as well as the Social Sciences. Dr. Scarpena worked previously as a secondary social studies teacher and history professor before joining the educational leadership team full time. Her experience includes teaching a variety of courses in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and education, course design and implementation, curriculum development, program development, student teacher candidate supervision and certification, as well as educational administration in both K-12 and higher education settings.
kscarpena@gmail.com
Arthur Ward
Arthur Ward has served as the Rector of St. Bartholomew's since 1998. He received his B.A. in History from SUNY at Buffalo; a M.A. in Practical Theology from Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA; and a M. Div. from Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, VA.. He and his wife Kathleen have two adult children, Arthur and Alyssa.
stbarton.org
Patricia Pason
Patricia Pason holds a Master in Ministry from Chesapeake Bible College and Seminary and is currently working towards her Doctorate of Theology in Messianic Jewish Studies through the same. She currently teaches a Bible Study and Torah Studies weekly at Congregation Brith Hadoshah Messianic Synagogue, as well as currently serving on the Congregational Board of Trustees. Her hobbies include travel and photography, and of course studying and teaching God's word.
patpason@aol.com
Elizabeth Coburn
Elizabeth Coburn has a BA in Literature from Gordon College, a MA in Children’s Literature from Hollins University, and a MA in Literature from the University of New Hampshire. She has a background in drama and vocal performance and has taught high school English and college writing. She is currently a freelance writer who has published fourteen middle-grade books for children, specializing in stories for reluctant readers. She, her husband Philip, and their three kids have attended KAC since moving to Buffalo in 2003.
eecoburn@aol.com
David Lytle
Dave received his Master's in education at the State University of New York, at Buffalo; and his Bachelors in Science at the State University of New York, at Buffalo. He has his NYS Teacher Certification and taught mathematics for 10 years in the Buffalo schools. Dave has taught biochemistry at the State University of New York, at Buffalo for 31 years.
lytle@buffalo.edu
Victoria Spencer
Victoria Spencer, NextGen Coordinator
Victoria has received her Masters of Divinity (Crown College), Bachelors in Biblical Studies (Crown College), Bachelors in Christian Ministry (Crown College), International Studies at Jerusalem University College, and an Associates in Christian Ministry at Houghton College. She is licensed by the Christian and Missionary Alliance, and has graduated from the Renovation University (a two-year ministry cohort) with The Chapel. Victoria has been an Administrative and Children’s Ministry Assistant at Kenmore Alliance Church, and an Administrative and Children’s Ministry Intern at New Covenant Church. She has been a guest speaker at several youth and adult events and/or services.
victoria@kenmorealliance.com