Minister Learning Academy

The Call to Continued Learning

Ministry is a lifelong journey of growth, requiring you to continually deepen your understanding, strengthen your skills, and renew your commitment to serving God and His people. The Minister Learning Academy (MLA) provides an intentional pathway for continued learning through three interconnected disciplines: Pastoral Care, Doctrine & Knowledge, and Leading the Divine Service Experience.

Together, these disciplines equip you to care for souls with compassion and wisdom, create meaningful and Christ-centered Divine Service experiences, and grow in doctrinal understanding and spiritual confidence. Through Group Discussion, Classroom, and Self-Study, the MLA provides opportunities to engage, reflect, and apply what you learn.

Continued learning is not simply about gaining knowledge—it is about allowing that knowledge to shape how you serve, lead and live your faith.

Pastoral Care

The following courses, Relational Ministry, Common Pastoral Visits, and Complex Human Realities, will assist you in developing the theological understanding and practical pastoral skills needed to accompany souls with Christ-centered compassion, wisdom, and presence.

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Leading the Divine Service Experience

Three courses support this discipline: Inner Authority, Liturgical Elements, and The Path of Understanding. Together, they explore the Holy Spirit’s work in preparing for and leading the Divine Service, while offering practical guidance for reflection and effective preaching.

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Doctrine & Theology

Through Vision & Mission, The Creed, and Engaging the Holy Spirit, this discipline deepens understanding of our faith, our calling, and the work of the Holy Spirit. Together, they deepen understanding of our Church’s purpose and beliefs while exploring how the Holy Spirit guides and empowers you to live and share the gospel.

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Group Discussion

Group discussion-based learning is an interactive approach where participants engage in discussions to explore and understand spiritual concepts, share ideas, and solve problems collaboratively. It encourages active participation, critical thinking, and the exchange of diverse perspectives. This format can take place online or in-person.

Classroom

This lecture-based learning is a more traditional method where an instructor teaches content to the participants in a structured format with minimal interaction. This format will take place online, and could be followed up with interactive peer-to-peer discussion to promote further understanding.

Self Study

Self-study-based learning involves independently reading and processing information without direct instruction. It encourages self-discipline and critical thinking, and requires personal responsibility in order to understand and master the content. Self-study moves at the pace of the student.

Featured Module

Serving and Leading

This module on “Serving and Leading” establishes a clear foundation for all ministers and individuals who perform duties within the Church. It emphasizes that ministry and leadership are not positions of privilege, but opportunities to support the spiritual growth of others and strengthen the unity of the congregation.

Click here to download the Group Discussion Guide