Rural Theological Institute (RTI)

When students reach their third year, they are assigned to internship programs at various locations and are asked to select a training program based on their interests. After completing their three-and-a-half-month practical training, students are sent to participate in a village or rural dwelling program. The third-year students are divided into small groups of four to five and are placed in very small villages near the Rural Theological Institute. RTI is located within the Panchayat jurisdiction of Kusavankundu Panchayat. Over the years RTI has helped students to participate in the many struggles of the downtrodden and to stand in solidarity with the poor on several issues.

Living among the villagers, this immersive experience helps the students to understand the role of Christianity in a multi-faith context. The people they live with and the life they experience in rural communities deepen their understanding of Jesus’ ministry to the marginalized and downtrodden.