School History
The Open Bible High School – The Journey
The Open Bible High School (OBHS) stands as a shining example of academic excellence and spiritual guidance in the vibrant community of San Fernando and its surrounding areas. Established in 1967 by the Open Bible Standard Churches of Trinidad and Tobago, the school has remained steadfast in its mission to provide students with not only top-tier education but also a nurturing Christian environment.
In its impressive 57-year journey, OBHS has continued to evolve and grow, earning itself a distinguished reputation within the educational landscape it serves. The school’s commitment to upholding strict disciplinary standards, fostering academic success, and instilling unwavering Christian values has been instrumental in shaping young minds and hearts.
At the core of OBHS’s ethos is its profound mission statement: “to be the best private secondary school in Trinidad and Tobago, dedicated to the provision of high-quality education in a Christian environment and to the promotion of the all-round development of students.” This guiding principle drives every faculty member to strive for excellence in both academics and character-building initiatives.
The rich history and legacy of OBHS would not have been possible without the visionary leadership of individuals such as Rev. Dr. Don Bryan from Open Bible USA, who laid down the foundation stones for what would become an institution par excellence. The invaluable contributions of our first principal, Rev. Melvyn Kelderman from Open Bible USA, as well as all past and present principals and staff members, have played a pivotal role in shaping OBHS into what it is today—a beacon of hope, knowledge, and moral integrity for generations to come.
Dr. Donald Bryan
Arriving on February 9, 1956, just one day before his 24th birthday, a young missionary, Donald Bryan, his wife Ruth Ellen, and their infant son Donnie came to Trinidad. At the age of sixteen, Don Bryan had given his life to Christ one Friday night in 1948 in Galesburg, Illinois. That same night, he was baptized in the Holy Spirit and received the call of God into the ministry.
Brother Bryan succeeded the Wilhelmsens as pastor of the First Church of the Open Bible in San Fernando. Though young, he was experienced in ministry. He brought to this equally young mission field much-needed skills in administration and evangelistic fervor. In the years to come, he would cast a fatherly shadow of nurture and wise headship over the entire organization, becoming well-known for his wise counsel and expertise in all matters of church administration. Before his assignment to Trinidad, he had pastored a church in Grimes, Iowa, USA, which doubled in size under his leadership. Many miracles of healing accompanied his ministry there. Now, in 1956, he was to become the first missionary pastor of the First Church in San Fernando, a position he would hold for seven years.
As Field Director or General Overseer of The Open Bible Standard Churches of Trinidad and Tobago Incorporated from 1956 to 1969, God tremendously used Mr. Bryan to establish and nurture churches, pastors, and congregations. His wise and discerning leadership led to several land acquisitions and valuable representations on behalf of the organization. He became a key instrument in the process of the birth, development, and growth of many district churches. After the departure of the Wilhelmsens, Brother Bryan also assumed the responsibilities of acting President of the Open Bible Institute and acting Field Director of the organization. He directed the construction of the first permanent church building in Open Bible with Grant Sickles as the contractor.
