Greek Bible Institute program has openings for Liberty students

It might be hard to focus on class when miles of picturesque vineyards and the Aegean Sea are so close at hand, but Liberty University students who are willing to try can apply to spend a year studying at the Greek Bible Institute in Greece.

The Greek Bible Institute and Liberty University have had a partnership benefiting Greek evangelical students for many years, and now two of the institute’s directors, John and Mary Gianopulos, have opened four slots in The Alpha Program for Liberty students.

The Alpha Program starts in September and ends in early June. The program offers students from American universities and colleges the opportunity to study the Bible in depth, in Pikermi, Greece.

“It’s for people who want to get out of their comfort zone,” John said.

The program is ideal for students majoring in Biblical Studies, or those of any major who wish to pursue a deeper understanding of the Word of God.

Liberty student Emily Grigg went to Greece for The Alpha Program her first year of college and said the experience was unforgettable.

“Attending the Greek Bible Institute was one of the best years of my life, and I believe that if it is where God calls you to be you will feel the same,” Grigg said. “I transferred in 45 Bible credits to Liberty University, meaning I didn’t have to take any of my Bible classes at LU.”

Some of the classes offered during the program include: Christian Life and Ministry, Epistle to the Hebrews and The Corinthian Correspondence. All courses are taught in English, including Greek Grammar, for those who would like to learn Greek. The program is directed by an on-site adjunct professor from Liberty University who resides in Greece. The credits are transferable to Liberty.

Students in The Alpha Program also have the option of taking trips to Corinth, Meteora, Delphi, ancient Greek ruins and a trip “Following in the Footsteps of St. Paul.”

“Student’s costs for the program would be about $7,000 for the whole year,” Mary said.

Those costs include tuition, room and board in campus dormitories and meals. It does not include textbooks, the cost of airfare and out-of-pocket expenses. The average cost for The Alpha Program students is $10,000 for the entire academic year when airfare and other expenses are factored in.

Applications are due to the program by July 1, 2009.

“It’s limited enrollment, so apply early,” Mary said.

Applications are available via The Alpha Program website. Applicants should be 18 or older.

The Greek Bible Institute is the only evangelical, accredited full-time program in Greece, a country that is predominantly Greek Orthodox.