Applications are being accepted for the College’s unique program to improve preaching skills, nurture the preacher, and promote the quality of the worship experience. The program strengthens the totality of the preaching life for the preacher and the congregation.
Conference Categories
Enrollees have five conferences required from the regular program offerings of the College. One conference from each of the following subject areas is selected in consultation with the College staff:
- WL — Worship and Liturgy
- PE — Sermon Preparation and Embodiment
- BE — Biblical Exegesis
- TH — Theology and Hermeneutic of Social Justice
- SG — Spiritual Growth
The Parish Component of the current Core Curriculum
Designed around the liturgical year, this preaching and reflection component is done within the participant’s regular preaching setting. A lay listening committee meets regularly with the preacher to reflect on nine sermons that are delivered over the course of the year. The preacher and listening committee also receive feedback from a reader who is on the College’s associate faculty. This parish component is offered in recognition of the fact that maximum growth in preaching necessitates expectant, careful listening on both the part of the parish and pastor. This design fosters increased congregational involvement in and dialogue about preaching, prayer, Scripture, worship, and liturgy.
Enrolling and Timeline
Up to two conferences previously completed within the past five years can be applied to meet the course requirements.
Although there is not a rigid timeline for completing the program, a drawn-out timeline may diminish the program’s intensity and effectiveness. The College awards a certificate at the conclusion of the program, and four CEUs are given for each conference completed.