New Camp/Retreat Ministry Certification First Course to be Launched January 2001 — Send for further info today! Camp/Retreat Center Ministries is being affirmed by The United Methodist Church as a vitally important avenue for faith formation and societal change. The preparation of camp/retreat leaders, both staff and key volunteers, is gaining increasing support. The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry is in the final stages of approval for the newest leadership certification offered by The United Methodist Church — Camp/Retreat Ministry Certification! Although final approval is pending, the proposals have been positively received and support is strong. The design of the certification courses has been a truly collaborative partnership. Drew Theological School, the General Board of Discipleship, the General Board of Higher Education, and representatives of the National Camp/Retreat Committee worked to hone the certification courses so they will be extremely relevant to the core of camp/retreat ministry. Last fall, the certification process and course requirements were presented to camp/retreat leaders in the field, which resulted in some significant changes that make certification even more beneficial to camp/retreat staff and volunteers who seek to be certified. This is the first consistent, academically and denominationally recognized educational process that significantly addresses the three core aspects of Camp/Retreat Ministry: Nurturing Faith, Ecological/Social Integrity, Ministry of Camp/Retreat Center Management. We are blessed to have an avenue of learning for those who want to explore camp/retreat ministry as a possible new vocation, and an avenue for profound continuing education that will benefit those already serving as staff or long-term volunteers. Drew has taken the lead in offering the initial certification courses, which can be taken in a non-degree track for certification only or for certification as part of a more extensive degree program, including masters degrees or a D.Min. degree. The Camp/Retreat Ministry Certification itself consists of the following: Completion of three required core courses: Faith Formation and Christian Living, The Theology and Ecology of Common Ground, and the Ministry of Camp/Retreat Center Management. Students then take two elective courses from the following areas of study: United Methodist Studies (required if not previously taken), Biblical Foundations for Camp/Retreat Ministry; Developing Christian Camp/Retreat Curriculum and Events; Developing Environmental/Social Justice Programs and Resources; Partnering with Ethnic Leaders and Communities; Fundraising and Financing for Camp/ Retreat Ministries; and Volunteer and Staff Hiring, Training and Supervision for Nonprofit Organizations. A brochure is being developed by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and Drew Theological School that explains other prerequisites and requirements for earning Certification in Camp/ Retreat Ministry. This is an amazing new opportunity! All of us should consider participating, as it will enhance camp/retreat ministry nationwide, as well as our own personal growth. The first course is scheduled to be offered in conjunction with our next National United Methodist Camp/Retreat Leaders' Gathering at Snow Mountain Ranch, January 2001. The certification will be launched with the Faith Formation and Christian Living Course. In addition, Drew is developing at least one (and eventually two) online courses. This is so supportive of our unique situations. The education of camp/retreat leaders is part of a larger endeavor by Drew called Common Ground, specifically focusing on preparing spiritual leaders who will engage congregations and communities in ministries of environmental and social justice from a deep grounding in Christian faith. I believe that entering the certification process will be a defining experience and I urge camp/retreat ministry leaders to seek certification. I will be doing so myself, as I still have much to learn. This is a unique opportunity for us all. It is important for us to participate, so that certification continues to have a strong base of students and will be available as we prepare leaders long into the future. Many people have worked for decades to see this dream realized and I am grateful for all those who held the vision and helped make it happen. Sign up today for certification. Please spread the word far and wide; urge current leaders and persons wishing to enter camp/retreat ministries to take advantage of the benefit certification has to offer in learning and in leadership recognition among your peers. See you in class! Kevin Witt, National Director, United Methodist Camp/Retreat Ministries Don't Delay! Persons must apply with the General Board of Higher Education before they can take courses for certification credit. Contact the following offices for further information. Section of Deacons and Diaconal Ministries General Board of Higher Education and Ministry P. O. Box 34007, Nashville, TN 37203-0007 Phone: (615) 340-7375; Fax: (615) 340-7377 Kevin Witt, Camp/Retreat Ministries, General Board of Discipleship P. O. Box 340003, Nashville, TN 37203-0003 Phone: (541) 317-1615; ktwjel@aol.com | New Camp/Retreat Certification | | Share Our Worlds Approved by State Department | | It's Working for Us | | | Partners in Discipleship: Camp and Retreat Ministries | | Resource Review | | Conservation U.S.A. | | Continuing Education & Fellowship Events | | Camp/Retreat Memo Archives | | Camping Home | Articles | Links | Staff | | Comments | Directory | Events | Employment Opportunities |