Continuing Education for Pastors

Did you know that pastors in the United Methodist Church are expected to take classes and workshops each year? The requirement is at least 1 CEU per year, and a total of 8 CEU's per four years. It's not only required, but it's a good idea! Pastors are disciples, which means we are called not only to teach and lead others to Christ, but also to continuously learn and experience new ways of following Christ.
     Pastors Gwyneth and Jamie have attended a variety of workshops over their 5+ years of pastoral ministry, and just recently became aware of some classes geared to pastors at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Hamilton, MA. On October 26, Pastor Gwyneth  took a class called, "Decision Making: The Way to Wisdom" with Garry Friesen, an Elder at a well known church in Portland, OR called Imago Dei.  Pastor Gwyneth saw several other United Methodist colleagues there, and the class was well attended.
   This particular seminar was on discerning God's will, and teaching your congregation about how they are to discern God’s will for their lives.  Christians should not be looking for an elusive perfect will of God for every decision. Rather God has granted Scripture and His wisdom sufficient in every decision. The seminar ended with the freeing concept of “faithfulness” over “success” as the goal of every ministry. Garry has written a wonderful book on which this seminar was based, called, "Decision Making and the Will of God."
   These seminars are open to laity as well as clergy. If you are interested, you may view more information at the Lifetime Learners link at Gordon-Conwell Seminary.