The Institute for Intercultural Study and Research (INESIN [1]) is an institution formed by Mexican Protestant and Catholic Christians to: 

• Establish a Space of Intercultural and Interreligious Gathering and Dialogue (for Analysis of Daily Life, Family, Religion, Work, and Solidarity); and 
• Develop Research and Participative Education within Communities, Churches, and General Society (that incorporates a Multicultural, Gender-Sensitive Perspective).

The Ecumenical School for Pastoral Training was developed in response to the indigenous uprising of the Zapatistas and the political and religious confrontation in the highlands of the Chiapas. During restructuring, the Ecumenical School for Pastoral Training was transformed into INESIN. Today, the Institute is divided into the following four departments.

• Indian Theology Department, which focuses on strengthening processes of Biblical and theological reflection to try to recuperate and reproduce the communitarian and theological cosmovision within indigenous Christianity. 
• Ecumenical Studies Department, which promotes Interreligious and ecumenical practice, reflection, and dialogue within communities, churches, and other religions.
• Gender Studies Department, which is committed to the deconstruction of oppressive traditional gender roles and to the construction of new forms of being where people are free of stereotypes.
• Social Development Department, which focuses on comprehensive development in diverse areas (such as local economies, education, food security, health, organic farming, housing) that affirm cultural and ethical values and citizens' rights.

Through its work, INESIN strives to benefit pastoral workers, pastors, lay leaders, women, men, and children of all religious beliefs who are interested in the development and practice of human and theological awareness.

Thanks to the support of Global Ministries, between July 2005 and December 2005 INESIN library was able to purchase 1,500 books on Bible history, theology, anthropology, and ecumenism. These new materials not only benefit faculty and students on campus, but have also provided educational opportunities to 35 indigenous communities in the region. The library also provides space for dialogue and forum events in the Chiapas community. These forums have focused on social and religious approaches that will help deepen reconciliation and peace in the area.

INESIN is seeking ongoing assistance with the development of a 10,000 volume library. In order to secure the additional 8,500 volumes needed over the next three years, INESIN will continue to seek both institutional and individual donations. This project will also work to upgrade its computer system to offer Internet access to library users. INESIN requests only 156,300 pesos (US$15,000) to complete these goals.

[1] Acronym for Instituto de Estudios E Investigación Intercultural