Mission
To be a leading center of excellence in spiritual and theological education in Ethiopia and globally, leveraging digital innovation for accessible online and distance learning while preserving Ethiopian Orthodox traditions.
Sewasewe Birhan St. Paul Spiritual College
Welcome to a legacy of faith and scholarship
Founded in 1935 E.C. to care for those wounded after the Italo-Ethiopian war, the college now blends traditional theological education with modern online learning for the global faithful.
New degree curriculum active since 2018 E.C.
About the College
A sanctuary of learning that honors Ethiopian Orthodox heritage while preparing servants for the modern world.
Vision
To see Sewasewe Birhan St. Paul Spiritual College recognized worldwide as a premier institution for online theological studies, bridging ancient spiritual wisdom and modern global learners.
Core Values
- Compassion & Inclusion: Honoring our roots by educating all, regardless of physical ability.
- Digital Accessibility: Pioneering online and distance education for the global community.
- Scriptural Integrity: Deep-rooted focus on Old and New Testament interpretations.
The Ladder of Light
Sewasewe Birhan means “The Ladder of Light,” reflecting the college mission to elevate the faithful through knowledge, service, and spiritual formation.
Founded in 1935 E.C. (1942 G.C.) after the Italo-Ethiopian war to shelter orphans, patriots, and wounded faithful.
The Kolfe Qeraniyo land in Lukanda was donated by Empress Menen; the school expanded from orphanage to a higher seminary.
Inaugurated as a Higher Seminary in 1978 and promoted to College status in 2005, under the Holy Synod.
Leadership
H.H. Patriarch Abune Mathias
Spiritual father and guardian of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
H.E. Archbishop Abune Hizkele (President)
Guides institutional vision and oversees academic integrity.
Like Hiruyan Sertse Abebe (Dean)
Leads academic administration and student mentorship.
Academic Programs
Degree and Diploma programs delivered through regular, distance, extension, night, and specialized online modalities.
Old Testament Interpretation
New Testament Interpretation
Theology & Ethics
Monastic Books
Ge'ez and Other Languages
Registration for the 2026 academic year is now open. Visit the Admissions page for full requirements, timelines, and fees.
Student Life & Resources
Dormitories for regular students, spiritual programs, chapel services, and a growing theological library.
Campus & Spiritual Programs
Daily worship, mentorship, and communal service shape students into faithful servants and teachers.
Library & Learning
Historic manuscripts, Ge'ez literature, and digitized archives support deep theological research.
Media Gallery
Digital Expansion & Community
Planned features that position Sewasewe Birhan as a global leader in online theological education.
Learning Management System
Secure student portals for lectures in Old Testament, New Testament, Ge'ez, and theology.
Digital Brana Library
Digitized monastic books and elite learning materials for research and preservation.
Community & Media Hub
Live-streamed sermons, alumni connections, and multilingual support in English, Amharic, and Ge'ez.
Contact
Kolfe Keraniyo, Lukanda, Addis Ababa (West side of the city).