Life Pacific University is pleased to announce the integration of EFM College, a growing institute with more than 200 students, within the next 12 months—uniting two missionally aligned institutions with a shared commitment to Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered education.

This partnership will strengthen Spanish-language theological education, expand global access to accredited programs, and equip more leaders to serve the Church, the workplace, and the world.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on October 18, 2025, the partnership was formally celebrated during a signing ceremony held on October 27 in the Rolf K. McPherson Chapel at Life Pacific University’s main campus in San Dimas, California.

“The integration of Life Pacific University and EFM College is God’s answer to a long-awaited path toward higher education for Hispanic pastors and emerging leaders who desire to deepen their theological knowledge and serve God more effectively,” said Pastor Mario Barahona, President of Angeles Bible Institute (ABI), Pastor of Angelus Temple Hispanic, and Life Pacific University Trustee for 18 years.

Strengthening Hispanic Theological Education

Since 2018, Life Pacific University has been a leading voice in Hispanic theological education through its M.A. in Leadership Spanish Language (MLSP) program. Over the past two years, the university partnered with EFM College through a memorandum of understanding (MOU), establishing a bridge program that created clear pathways for students to complete their bachelor’s degrees and advance into graduate-level studies.

That collaboration recently expanded to include Angeles Bible Institute (ABI), extending educational access across global ABI locations. Many EFM faculty members are also graduates of Life Pacific’s MLSP program—creating a powerful, full-circle story of alumni returning to educate the next generation of ministry leaders.

About EFM College

Founded in 2019 by Dr. Daniel and Pastor Yadira Ruarte and later strengthened through the collaboration and leadership of Dr. Hugo Aldana, Dean of LPU Global, EFM College has developed a strong reputation for training and equipping Hispanic servant-leaders who are deeply rooted in Scripture and committed to excellence in ministry.

The college’s Pentecostal and interdenominational approach—grounded in Arminian-Wesleyan foundations—aligns naturally with Life Pacific University’s theological heritage. Currently serving more than 200 Spanish-speaking students through online programs—including an Associate in Practical Ministry, a Bachelor of Theology and Leadership, and micro-certificates—EFM embodies a commitment to biblical authority, theological tradition, reason, and experience.

A Vision for Accessible, Accredited Education

The integration of EFM College into Life Pacific University expands access to accredited and future multilingual programs, offering affordable, high-quality theological education to students around the world.

“We have seen the global need for affordable, accredited, Christ-centered, and Spirit-filled higher education,” said Sara Huson, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Marketing at Life Pacific University. “Through EFM, this vision becomes possible. I’m especially excited for what this means for our Hispanic students and for those in other nations who will now experience the transformative power of theological education.”

“My heart is full of joy for what this moment represents,” said Dr. Daniel Ruarte, Provost at Life Pacific University. “Seven years ago, I was hired to launch a single Hispanic graduate program. Today, we have an entire office with multiple programs—and with this integration, we’re adding a signature undergraduate degree offered entirely in Spanish and fully accredited through LPU. From micro-certificates to an upcoming doctoral degree, we now provide a complete academic pathway for Hispanic students.”

“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Daniel Ruarte and Pastor Yadira Ruarte for their selfless commitment to Christ and His mission,” said Dr. Angie Richey, President of Life Pacific University. “Thanks also to Dr. Hugo Aldana Jr., Pastor Janice Aldana Jr., and EFM’s governing board for their good stewardship and faithfulness. This integration is a dream come true for so many who have waited and prayed. What started as a bridge will now lead to full integration, allowing us to advance LPU’s global vision to equip Spirit-empowered leaders for service in the Church, the workplace, and the world—together.”

A 12-month consolidation plan is underway to ensure a smooth transition for students, faculty, and staff while aligning with accreditation standards and institutional priorities. Through this integration, Life Pacific University strengthens its commitment to making theological education accessible, affordable, and globally impactful.

Explore more: EFM College| Hispanic Theological Education