Bear Valley Bible Institute — Organization Profile
Bear Valley Bible Institute (BVBI) is a Bible training school dedicated to preparing men and women for ministry through intensive, text-focused study of Scripture. BVBI describes its teaching as rooted in God’s Word and aimed at shaping leaders whose convictions and ministry decisions are grounded in the Bible. The institute serves those pursuing preaching, missions, and other ministry roles by combining classroom learning with practical training and mentorship.
BVBI is based in Denver, Colorado, at its Lamar Street campus. From this location, the institute equips resident students for local congregational work and broader gospel efforts. In addition to its Denver program, BVBI supports a network of International Schools (extension schools) that provide preacher training in multiple regions, allowing students to be equipped for ministry within their own cultures and communities.
The core academic pathway is the Preaching Program, a two-year course of study leading to a Bachelor of Biblical Studies (BBS). BVBI states that the program totals 136 semester hours, including a large concentration in Bible book studies. A distinctive feature is the emphasis on direct engagement with the biblical text—BVBI notes that students receive 942 classroom hours studying Bible books during the two-year program. Alongside coursework, students also receive practical experience through preaching, teaching, evangelism, and ministry assignments designed to strengthen both content and delivery.
BVBI also highlights that there is no tuition for the two-year Bachelor’s Degree Program. The institute explains that students should plan for books, school materials, minor fees, and living expenses, but that tuition is not charged for the program. This model reflects BVBI’s goal of lowering barriers to ministry preparation while maintaining a structured, in-person training environment.
Beyond the preaching track, BVBI offers a Women’s Program designed specifically for women who want deeper Bible knowledge and practical preparation for service. The institute also provides a Graduate Program that leads to advanced study in biblical studies for those seeking further development in teaching and ministry leadership. These programs extend BVBI’s emphasis on Scripture, spiritual formation, and applied ministry competence.
Engagement opportunities include applying for admission, partnering financially, and supporting student training through initiatives like 1,000 Seeds, which invites ongoing monthly support for the institute’s work. BVBI also hosts the Future Preachers’ Training Camp, a week-long summer program for young men (ages 13–18) focused on sermon preparation, Bible study, and personal evangelism. Together, these pathways reflect BVBI’s commitment to training ministers locally in Denver while strengthening preacher development and encouragement across a wider network.
Key Links
- Website: https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/
- About: https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/about-bearvalley/
- Our Staff: https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/our-staff/
- Preaching Program (BBS): https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/preachingprogram
- Costs & Raising Support: https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/costs-support/
- Women’s Program: https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/womensprogram
- Graduate Program: https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/mastersdegree/
- Future Preachers’ Training Camp: https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/future-preachers
- Donate (1,000 Seeds): https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/donate/
- Contact Us: https://www.wetrainpreachers.com/contact-us/
Contact Information
- Email: in**@**************rs.com
- Phone: 303-986-5800
- Phone: 800-766-4641
- Mailing address: Bear Valley Bible Institute, 2707 S. Lamar Street, Denver, CO 80227
Socials
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bearvalleybibleinstitute
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bearvalleybibleinstitute4266
Leadership
- Wayne Jones — President / Instructor
- Dennis Petrillo — President Emeritus / Instructor
- J. Michael Hite — Vice President of Operations / Instructor
- Donnie Bates — Academic Dean; Dean of Graduate Studies / Instructor
- Brett Petrillo — Dean of Students / Instructor
- Shana Kaye Jones — Dean of Women / Women’s Instructor
- Jon Warnes — Director of Development
- Wayne Nelson — Director of Student Services / Instructor
