THE ANSELM INSTITUTE grows out of the ministry of the Rev. John Watson, Pastor Emeritus        of the Bethel Presbyterian Church where he served for 33 years, retiring in 2003.  Adult Christian Education was        the   focus of his ministry and over the years he  developed and taught many classes and seminars.  In addition           he has taught  the Bethel Series and Crossways to scores of f folks.

He is a graduate of:  Wheaton College (B.A. - Philosophy and Greek, 1960); Princeton Theological Seminary  (B.D. - New Testament and Preaching, 1964); The University of Aberdeen, Scotland (M.Th. - Church History, 1971)

A life-long interest in C. S. Lewis has resulted in the production of many courses relating to Lewis' life and work, from      "The Problem of Pain" to the Chronicles of Narnia. Pastor Watson had the great privilege of attending one of the Summer Sessions of the C.S. Lewis Institute where he lived in Oxford for two weeks and had many stimulating sessions.

In recent years the work of Dr. Kenneth Bailey has held great interest and has resulted in many new insights as Dr. Bailey has a unique ability to "rescue truth from familiarity'.  His latest book: "Jesus Through Middle-Eastern Eyes"   contains much material to stimulate learning and Pastor Watson has developed several  courses to introduce              Dr. Bailey's work.

His long term hobby of amateur stage magic is both a refreshing diversion and a valuable tool. For a fuller explanation see the "Add Some Magic" page.

For our Statement of Faith see What We Believe