BFS History
A Legacy of Faith, Service, and Theological Training
BFS History
A Legacy of Faith, Service, and Theological Training
From humble beginnings in rural Andhra Pradesh to a growing ministry of churches, education, and outreach — discover the journey of Bible Faith Lutheran Church and Seminary.
Supporting Ministry
Bible Faith Lutheran Ministries to India
For more than four decades, US-based Bible Faith Lutheran Ministries to India (BFLMI) has functioned as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, participating in God’s work across India. It supports and strengthens the Bible Faith Lutheran Church of India, Bible Faith Seminary, and the Moriah School and Children’s Home.
In 2018, a significant initiative was started under the BFLC umbrella, the India Bible Study Translation Project (IBS). In 2018, IBS was separately incorporated as a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization and has its own Board of Directors.
Core Ministries of the BFLMI
Bible Faith Seminary
Our Roots
Bible Faith Lutheran Church of India
The Bible Faith Lutheran Church of India was founded in 1978 by the late Rev. Bhushana Rao Dasari and formally incorporated in 1980. The ministry began with a clear vision, to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to rural villages of Andhra Pradesh, particularly among fishing villages and farming communities.
BFLC operates as an independent Confessional Lutheran church body. While it is not structured as a synod or episcopal system like some historic Lutheran denominations, it maintains clear doctrinal accountability and centralized leadership through its Board of Directors.
Early efforts focused on proclaiming the Word of God, planting churches where no Christian witness existed,and addressing social and educational needs. By 1980, ten churches had already been established.
BFLC now has more than 35 congregations within a 70-mile radius of Guntur, Andhra Pradesh. Its central mission is to proclaim the heart of the Gospel—the love of Jesus Christ—by planting new congregations and strengthening existing ones. This growth necessitated the establishment of theological training to supply congregations with adequate leadership.
Bible Faith Seminary (BFS) was formally established in 1995 to provide seminary, pre-seminary, and continuing pastoral training. Its academic approach emphasizes Confessional Lutheran doctrine while integrating Biblical scholarship and ministerial practice.
Following the passing of Rev. Dr. Bhushana Rao Dasari in 2000, leadership of the church and its ministries was continued by his sons, Dr. Paul Dasari and Mr. David Dasari, who currently serve on the Board of Directors to ensure the faithful continuation of the vision and ministries established by their father and provide oversight of the church and related ministries.
The Church, oversees ministries such as evangelism, church planting, theological education, and social outreach, including a children’s home and educational initiatives (grade school and high school). Rev. Rao’s daughter, Mrs. Esther Dale, provides oversight to the Moriah School’s operations, along with Mr. David Dasari.
Milestones
Timeline of Church & Seminary
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Growing in Mission
Seminary Grows as Church Grows
As the ministry of the Church continues to grow, Bible Faith Seminary has expanded its reach, programs, and methods of training to meet the needs of pastors, students, and Christian workers. Rooted in its commitment to confessional Lutheran teaching, the Seminary combines local leadership with global support to provide accessible and practical theological education.
Indian-born professors teach in both Telugu and English, ensuring that students are equipped within their cultural and linguistic context. At the same time, visiting Lutheran professors and pastors from the United States contribute through short-term courses and ongoing remote instruction, enriching the academic and spiritual experience.
Since its founding in 1995, the Seminary has served not only full-time students but also pre-seminarians, pastors, and individuals exploring ministry. Through structured coursework, continuing education opportunities, and annual theological symposiums, Bible Faith Seminary remains committed to equipping faithful leaders for the Church.
Courses offered in Telugu and English for wider accessibility
Visiting and remote instruction from U.S.-based Lutheran pastors and professors
Training for pastors, church workers, and ministry seekers at all stages
In-depth study and fellowship for students, graduates, and church leaders