1. Honorary Degree Policy Document
Missionary Baptist Seminary of Bethel Baptist Institute of International Studies (MBSBBIIS)
Policy on Conferring Honorary Degrees (Honoris Causa)
I. Purpose
The Missionary Baptist Seminary of Bethel Baptist Institute of International Studies (MBSBBIIS) confers honorary degrees (Honoris Causa) to recognize individuals who have demonstrated exemplary Christian service, outstanding leadership, and significant contributions to ministry, theology, or missions. This honor reflects the seminary’s commitment to acknowledging those who advance biblical truth and serve the Kingdom of God.
II. Eligrible Degrees
MBSBBII S may confer the following honorary degrees:
• Doctor of Divinity (D.D.) – For distinguished Christian ministry, pastoral leadership, or theological scholarship.
• Doctor of Theology (Th.D. Hon.) – For exceptional contribution to theological research or biblical education.
• Doctor of Christian Ministry (D.C.M.) – For impactful leadership in Christian service and community development.
• Doctor of Missiology (D.Miss.) – For significant work in missions, evangelism, and cross-cultural outreach.
III. Qualification Criteria
To qualify for an honorary degree, nominees must:
1. Spiritual and Moral Integrity – Demonstrate an exemplary Christian testimony and moral character in line with biblical teachings (1 Timothy 3:2-7).
2. Exceptional Ministry Contribution – Have a minimum of 10-20 years of impactful service in pastoral work, missions, or theological education.
3. Service to the Christian Community – Exhibit a lasting impact through church planting, leadership development, or scholarly contributions.
4. Alignment with Doctrinal Beliefs – Agree with and uphold the doctrinal statement of MBSBBIIS and Baptist distinctives.
5. Leadership and Legacy – Show evidence of mentoring and influencing future Christian leaders through faithful service.
IV. Nomination and Evaluation Process
1. Submission of Nominations
o Nominations may be submitted by faculty, board members, or recognized Christian leaders.
o Required documents include:
Completed Nomination Form (see Appendix A)
Nominee’s biography and ministry record
Two letters of recommendation from Christian leaders
2. Review by the Honorary Degree Committee
o A special committee appointed by the Board of Trustees will evaluate the nominee’s qualifications.
o The committee will prayerfully review the nominee’s contribution and alignment with the seminary’s mission.
3. Approval Process
o Final approval requires a 2/3 majority vote by the Board of Trustees.
o Approved candidates will be notified and invited to receive the degree at a formal convocation.
4. Presentation of the Degree
o The honorary degree will be awarded during a special ceremony, with a presentation speech outlining the recipient’s contribution.
V. Limitations and Ethical Considerations
• Honorary degrees do not grant the recipient the right to practice as a licensed minister or use the degree for professional accreditation.
• MBSBBIIS does not sell or confer honorary degrees in exchange for donations.
2. Honorary Degree Nomination Form
Missionary Baptist Seminary of Bethel Baptist Institute of International Studies (MBSBBIIS)
Honorary Degree Nomination Form
I. Nominee Information:
• Full Name: ___________________________________________
• Address: _____________________________________________
• Phone Number: _______________________________________
• Email: _______________________________________________
• Proposed Degree:
☐ Doctor of Divinity (D.D.)
☐ Doctor of Theology (Th.D. Hon.)
☐ Doctor of Christian Ministry (D.C.M.)
☐ Doctor of Missiology (D.Miss.)
II. Ministry and Service Record:
1. Number of years in Christian ministry: ___________________________
2. Current and previous ministry positions (with dates):
3. Notable Contributions to Ministry or Theology:
4. Publications (if any): ___________________________________________
III. Nominator Information:
• Nominator’s Name: ___________________________________________
• Relationship to Nominee: ______________________________________
• Address: _____________________________________________
• Phone Number: _______________________________________
• Email: _______________________________________________
IV. Required Attachments:
☐ Nominee’s biography and ministry background
☐ Two letters of recommendation from recognized Christian leaders
Signature of Nominator:
____________________________
Date: ______________________
