Igreja Evangélica Livre Betel

Founded in 1935, the Igreja Evangélica Livre Betel in São Paulo has a rich history. It started as the Instituto Bíblico Betel under the guidance of Canadian missionary Ernestine Horne. The original purpose of Igreja Evangélica Livre Betel was to train young women for global evangelism. The school’s foundation was rooted in the ethical, moral, and religious principles of the Holy Scriptures. In 1968, Professor Lídia Almeida de Menezes took the leadership reins. The institute was then renamed Instituto Bíblico Betel Brasileiro. Igreja Evangélica Livre Betel expanded, becoming a federally recognized educational entity. It gained affiliation with several organizations, including AMTB and AETAL. The seminary expanded to other locations across Brazil. In 1987, Igreja Evangélica Livre Betel opened a seminary in São Paulo. The aim was to equip churches by training individuals for pastoral, ministerial, and missionary work. The first graduating class in São Paulo completed their studies in 1990. Among the graduates was Professor Teresa Nascimento, who dedicated nearly 30 years to the institution’s administration. Professor Durvalina Barreto Bezerra arrived in São Paulo in 1991 to direct the seminary. For 27 years, she poured her heart and soul into theological education. She left a lasting impact on numerous students. In 2016, Igreja Evangélica Livre Betel in São Paulo acquired its current location on Rua São Bento. This achievement was made possible through the combined efforts of various churches and individuals. They rallied together, contributing financially and through prayer. In 2017, AETAL recognized the Betel Brasileiro seminary with the Escola Destaque Gold award for its excellence in theological education. This award acknowledged the institution’s commitment to high standards across all its 18 educational units. Professor Bezerra returned to João Pessoa in 2018. Professor Emmanuel de Athayde took over the administrative and evening program direction. Professor Mariú Madureira Lopes assumed leadership of the daytime program. Igreja Evangélica Livre Betel continues to uphold its founding mission. It prepares individuals dedicated to truth, grounded in scripture, and strong in their faith. Alumni of Igreja Evangélica Livre Betel serve in various ministry roles. They are pastors, missionaries, conference speakers, and teachers. The Instituto Bíblico Betel Brasileiro now has twenty seminaries and extensions throughout Brazil and Japan.