Bible college gets a home

SALEM -- After 12 years in leased facilities, Salem Bible College (SBC) opened its doors this fall quarter on its own campus.

The complex was purchased this June from a local congregation, Resurrection Life Church. The buildings are on 1 and 1/2 acres north of Salem on River Road North in the Gervais area. What was once Eldriedge Elementary School has been updated to provide classrooms,, a chapel, student center, offices and library.

When the structure was first constructed at the turn of the 20th century, it was built on land donated by Hugh Eldriedge for a grade school. It became part of the first school district in the state of Oregon.

In September 1988, Salem Bible College was founded by O. Cope Budge, its first president.. SBC is recognized by the state government's Office of Degree Authorization to offer a two year Associate of Religion Degree.

With a focus of making a biblical education financially affordable, the school has reached out to students from a variety of denominational backgrounds.

The mission of SBC is to equip students for the ministry by providing a professional degree in biblical and ministerial study. The college also has a mission to enhance the ministry of local congregations by providing advanced training for their members.

President Carley Kendrick says, "It is our goal to work with the local church."

The college invites visitors. For more information, call 503-304-0092.