ABI History

1937. World History records it as an era of great economic depression. Apostolic history records it as a year when another great stepping stone was placed for the Gospel's sake. Just 36 years following the original outbreak of Pentecost in Stone's Folly, Topeka, Kansas and 24 years after the Oneness revelation in Arroyo Seco, California, God called a man to "Start a Bible School." This was an unacceptable, even absurd idea in many circles in 1937, yet with a tenacious sense of commitment, Rev. S. G. Norris accepted the challenge and established the first Bible college within the organizations that became the United Pentecostal Church.

Not avoiding the responsibility of his pastorate at Midway Tabernacle in St. Paul, Minnesota, he simply expanded his ministry. Central to his purpose was the firm conviction that only a strong,

Bible-based ministry could guarantee the survival of the apostolic movement.

On October 1, 1937, Apostolic Bible Institute opened its doors to men and women around the world to "work the works of Him who sent me while it is day: the night cometh when no man can work." (John 9:4 - motto of the Apostolic Bible Institute). The foundation of this Bible College was built on the Word of God.

On April 21, 1943, ABI was incorporated under the laws of the State of Minnesota as a nonprofit institute for religious education, and for the training of ministers and missionaries.

1946. The first General Board of the United Pentecostal Church is formed.  We owe a debt of gratitude for the leadership of the members of the first General Board, who laid a stable foundation upon which we have built. Brother S.G. Norris was one of these outstanding men.  

Experience led to growth. The formative years of the Apostolic Bible Institute were spent at 464 Pierce Street. Then, recognizing the need for larger facilities, ABI purchased and moved to 745 Grand Avenue. Apostolic Bible Institute purchased 464 Pierce Street and remodeled it into a nine-apartment building for married students. Dormitories at 721, 736 and 713 Lincoln Avenue and 449 Beacon Street housed the single students.

In the early 1960's, the student body reached capacity. A 40 - acre plot of land was purchased at the location today known as 6944 Hudson Boulevard North, just eight miles east of downtown St. Paul. Classrooms and an administration building and dormitories were constructed and ABI moved to the new campus in the fall of 1966. Today the campus consists of classrooms, administration building, four beautiful brick dorms, utility garage, a chapel-gym and a large church auditorium.

Rev. S. G. Norris served as president of the Apostolic Bible Institute until his death on January 4, 1990. The impact of the founders, Rev. & Mrs. S. G. Norris on the world is immeasurable. Their teaching has influenced over 4000 graduates and former students of this college, many of whom are involved in Christian service worldwide.

Rev. G. F. Grant was elected president after the passing of Rev. Norris. 

Rev. Grant has taught at ABI since 1957 and had faithfully served as executive vice-president. He is committed to the same mission, which was the heartbeat of the founder - to see men and women biblically trained for the service of Christ.