ABSTRACT
The Marash Theological Seminary had its roots in the Bebek Institute of Constantinople, founded in 1840 by Dr. Cyrus Hamlin. This was at first an academy, offering a general curriculum with strong emphasis on courses in religious subjects. The specific mission of Bebek was to prepare Armenian clergy and other leaders to serve throughout the country. The Bible used in the school was written in the Turkish language, transcribed with the Armenian alphabet by American missionaries. As soon as the seminary began in its temporary quarters in Marash, Armenian and American clergy and laymen made a concerted effort to raise funds for a permanent campus. Students included women and members of the Armenian Apostolic as well as Evangelical faiths. Theological students received practical training as they assisted local and neighboring churches in various capacities.
