In a diverse and changing world, it is important that authorized ministers continue to learn and grow in their vocational calling. The continuing education requirement for authorized ministers can be met in numerous ways which may include any or all of the following:
Formal Learning Opportunities
- Courses through the Wisconsin Conference Damascus Project
- Seminary or university courses (in person or online) for academic credit or audit
- Certificate programs in areas like preaching, spiritual direction, conflict transformation, nonprofit leadership, or counseling
- Denominational training events sponsored by judicatory bodies, conferences, or presbyteries
Conferences and Workshops
- Attend clergy conferences, retreats, or continuing education events
- Participate in specialized workshops on topics like stewardship, pastoral care, preaching, faith formation, intercultural competence, or digital ministry
- Join webinars or online summits—many are low-cost and accessible
Peer and Collaborative Learning
- Participate in the Communities of Practice small groups offered by the Wisconsin Conference
- Participate in a lectionary study group
- Join a cohort program with other pastors focused on leadership development
- Engage in mentoring or coaching—both receiving and offering can count in some systems
Reading and Reflection
- Complete a guided reading plan of books, articles, or journals with written reflection
- Subscribe to and engage with publications like The Alban Institute resources or denominational journals
- Form a book discussion group with other clergy
Spiritual Formation
- Attend a silent retreat or directed retreat
- Work with a spiritual director
- Participate in a pilgrimage or spiritual travel experience connected to ministry formation
Practical Ministry Skills
- Training in safe church practices, mediation, first aid/mental health first aid, or pastoral care skills
- Learning new technology tools for worship, administration, or communication
- Language learning or cultural immersion to better serve a changing community
Teaching and Creating
Sometimes we learn best by teaching:
- Prepare and lead a Bible study or adult education series on a new topic
- Develop a ministry project and reflect on outcomes
- Present at a conference or write for a ministry publication
Community Engagement and Exposure
- Visit ministries different from your own (urban/rural, multicultural, church plants, nonprofits)
- Participate in a service-learning or immersion experience
Participation in this requirement should be recorded in the yearly Annual Information Review form.