The overall goal of the Certificate in Congregational Leadership is to strengthen the church through quality theological education for laypersons. While the courses offered are particularly designed for lay pastor candidates in the Presbyterian Church (USA), they serve the needs of all laypersons who are contributing their gifts to the ministry of their local church. Church officers, youth leaders, Christian education leaders and teachers, mission workers, and persons who wish to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith will discover a rich opportunity through this program.
Participants benefit from a theological education, including interaction with faculty and other students via distance education. A letter of completion will be given for each course completed. These courses do not carry graduate credit.
UDTS is not a certification agency for ministry. As with ordained ministry, lay ministry is certified or commissioned through the individual's denominational judicatory (Presbytery, Church and Ministry Committee, or Local Church, depending on denominational background). UDTS does certify the completion of courses.
Program Distinctive
- You will experience a fulfilling education in an online community. This program gives you flexibility within the courses to fit even the busiest schedules, as all courses are taught online and are asynchronous. UDTS values community in distance education. You'll discover others in class discussions with similar passions for God's kingdom.
- The Congregational Leadership Certificate serves multiple denominations and faith traditions. Whether you serve as a church officer, a Christian Education leader or teacher, want training to become a lay pastor, or simply to deepen your understanding of the Christian faith, you will discover a quality program.
- With over 20 years of experience in distance education, having educated several thousand students, UDTS has moved this experience from the frontier to the mainstream. Join us online for a journey deeper into God's word and the wisdom and practices of the church.
Admission to the Congregational Leadership Certificate
Applicants to the Congregational Leadership Certificate must provide the following:
- Complete the certificate application form in its entirety.
- Complete the personal essay or statement.
- Provide a reference from a pastor or a church governing body (judicatory) official.