Under the second component of this program, we will invite two groups of 15 - 20 clergy each (identified through the listening/focus groups and by judicatory officials as effective in ministry) to participate in one of two Foundational Seminar Series, one with a focus on theology/biblical studies and the other centering on spiritual formation/direction. Though these events have intrinsic value, we see them as key building blocks for Component Three of the Center for Ministry Pastoral Excellence Project. The underlying hope is that as these groups study and pray and worship together over a year, it will become a model for peer learning groups that will feed the next phase of the proposal.
Under the third component, we will provide grants for self-selected peer learning groups and will host grant-writing workshops throughout the state to provide instruction on how to structure the proposals and to educate participants about the project's underlying principles. Peer Group Facilitators will be trained and assigned to each group to assist in developing and pursuing learning objectives.
The peer learning groups (comprised of 5 - 8 persons) will have to meet at least two of four criteria for diversity -- ethnic, gender, denominational, and clergy/lay status. Peer Learning Groups will design a learning covenant that details a two-year plan for continuing education, spiritual formation and skill development. Grants will be given in the amount of $2,500 per person per year. Each participant will contribute $250 per year. The congregation or parish served by each participant will also contribute $250 per year. Each year, five peer learning groups of 5 to 8 participants each will be funded. (Applications for peer learning groups available here.
Home | Components | Center for Ministry
1701 North State Street, P. O. Box 150041, Jackson, MS 39210. (601) 974-1488,
email: PEP@centerforministry.com
page design by Alpha Project