The site for the new seminary was the former E.B. Laudenslager public school, which had stood vacant for several years and so required extensive renovations. To help defray costs, friends provided furnishings and materials at discount, as well as outright donations of needed items. After much labor, the opening convocation was held September 28, 1971, and the following day classes began with 48 students, one of whom was to become Biblical’s fourth president.

The early days of Biblical Seminary were not without their trials, but through them all, the faculty and staff believed in their vision to change the world for Jesus.

“These were extremely challenging times with faculty salaries in arrears and rather drastic steps taken in colder months to keep the thermostats quite low. On one occasion I clearly recall seeing Professor Dunzweiler wearing an overcoat and hat to retain what little heat was in the room. We had a pioneering spirit in those days. Faculty almost all had to have second jobs. (One professor) found groceries in his car provided by the students who understood the sacrifices that were made by faculty whose salaries were six months in arrears. Staff brought in their own pencils and paper to save expenses.”

– Wayne Davidson Alumnus, former BTS professor and comptroller

Despite such hardships, from the beginning the seminary saw the need to reach beyond its doors with the Word of God. Biblical wanted to train more than just religious professionals, and in 1972, the Evening Bible Institute began to bring seminary training to lay people with a mix of Bible and theology studies.

Seven and a half years after opening, the seminary received from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania the right to grant degrees, and in order to more clearly identify itself as a graduate institution, changed its name from Biblical School of Theology to Biblical Theological Seminary.

Under Dr. Dunbar, the seminary saw the rise of the next generation of faculty leadership, committed to the highest standards of scholarship and infused with the life and vitality of Biblical’s founders. Curriculum developed accordingly, with the seminary beginning a counseling concentration within the MA program that proved to be an immediate success, attracting a large number of students in its first year.

“I distinctly remember coming to Biblical from serving with Young Life staff and realizing that while I had been among the more conservative (there), I was probably one of the more ‘liberal’ students at Biblical! I remember Professor Taylor saying: “At Biblical we are Reformed, but we’re happy about it!” I have never forgotten that sentiment and try to live by it.”

– A 1988 graduate

And the legacy of such teaching continued to grow: according to the November 1990 president’s report, “A recent Alumni survey showed 178 graduates serving as pastors, 52 as missionaries, 55 as teachers, 7 military chaplains, and many working as counselors, Christian education directors, music directors and editors for Christian publishers. Biblical graduates can be found in 27 countries around the globe.”

“In particular, I remember the gracious and encouraging spirits of faculty members, administrators, and fellow students alike. Whether in class, in study sessions, or being soundly defeated in ping pong (!) there was a real sense of fellowship and mutual respect.”

– A 2000 graduate

Through all this, community outreach remained a priority, and President Dunbar and Executive Vice-President Thom Skinner started Breakfast with Biblical as a means of connecting with and encouraging business leaders in the community. This ministry continues today.