Mission:

Biblical Life Institute is a school of biblical higher education that prepares students for faithful Christian thought and life in order to transform lives and build the Kingdom of God.

History:

Dr. Henry Shilling, founder of Transylvania Bible School (now Biblical Life Institute) was no stranger to biblical studies or to walking by faith. He received his Bible school training at God’s Bible School, then his high school diploma, and finally his college degrees. Although a college education is needed for many vocations, he felt his training at the Bible school grounded him firmly in holiness background and doctrine. Our Bible school began with seven years of faith (1938-1945).

By faith, Dr. Shilling purchased White Oak Camp which was operated as a service station, dance hall, and tourist camp. Through God’s direction this parcel of land was turned into a camp meeting , youth convention, and finally a Bible School.

The name Transylvania was changed to Biblical Life Institute, but the concept of providing a strong biblical foundation remains the same. The beautiful three-story building, built by Dr. Shilling and the students, still remains surrounded by many of the original white oak trees.

About Us:

Biblical Life Institute is a small Bible school that prepares men and women for a lifetime of service in the Kingdom of God. Our goal is to help you clearly define what you believe, live what you believe, and give you the tools needed to minister to others. Attending BLI, you will not only learn the Bible and related studies, you will learn how to lead a disciplined Christian life whatever your future life plans.

Though our student body is small, we offer a complete Bible education geared for the serious, academic student. Most of our faculty have doctoral degrees and serve as pastors of local churches, bringing to the classroom both a rich scholarship and an understanding of the needs of churches. 

Our 164 acre campus is located in a beautiful rural setting thirty minutes from downtown Pittsburgh. There is plenty of space to explore our woods, sit by the lake, or grab a book from the library and relax in one of our lounges.

Our school is not for everyone; but for those who want to learn the Bible, live faithfully, and minister God's love and redemption to the world, there is no better place to be.