Benefits
Here are reflections from students who have participated in the courses:
"A much closer connection and network with colleagues from across the nation who have similar leadership responsibilities to my own."
"A strong theological foundation for the importance of what we do, that now under girds my planning and leadership."
"Spiritual growth, inspiration, and renewal.
"New visions and innovations that create greater depth and breadth in what our experiences offer for those we host and serve"
"On-going exchange of ideas, information, and support long after classes are over with persons from my own denomination and other denominations."
"Expanded opportunities to lead, teach, write, and share within the camp/retreat leader community."
"A sense of accomplishment and appreciation in being certified in a specialized ministry viewed as important, while receiving academic credit and recognition."
"Learning a host of new and exciting concepts, trends, and developments from professors and classmates."
"Getting foundational training and demonstrating my serious commitment to the ministry long-term, which makes me a more attractive candidate for open positions within camp/retreat ministry."
"Lots of practical application not just theory."
"Sharing a core body of knowledge that is baseline for anyone in camp/retreat ministries and then being able to go deeper into topics of particular interest and importance to me and my setting."
"Friendships I will cherish all my life."
"Being certified by my denomination as having training and expertise in a specialized ministry."
"Being able to apply these courses to another academic degree, when arranged in advance."
Photo by Deb Smith, Project Director of the High Potential Metro Church Initiative, General Board of Discipleship.