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Make Disciples of Jesus Christ |
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SE District News October 2007 |
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1001 14th St. NW, Suite 500 Rochester, MN 55901 |
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It Doesn’t End at Seminary
In the February issue of the Southeast District News I introduced a document developed by the Cabinet titled “Characteristics of Pastoral Leadership – Minnesota Annual Conference.” This month I continue to talk about another characteristic taken from the document:
Life-long learner: Seeks to be a life long learner and makes the investment in on-going personal and professional development.
How do you continue to stay abreast of a changing world? What educational opportunities do you take to improve your skill set?
Ministry today is difficult and changing. Many of the models of past ministry do not work for us today. Needs have shifted, our communities have changed, and we find ourselves somewhat obsolete and irrelevant. In short, we have failed to change with the ebb and flow of time.
The good news is there are plenty of educational opportunities to help us update our ministry tool box and equip us with what we need to do ministry in the 21st century. Audio, video, and web conferencing educational opportunities make learning more convenient then ever before. We can learn from the comfort of our offices.
Our Gateways program has provided funding for learning and a group setting where we are held accountable and find support. Access to learning has never been easier.
The importance of any continuing education program is to align your learning with the needs of your church and community. It is important that we acquire the skills and tools necessary to better serve our ministry setting.
Learning does not end at seminary. Seminary only helps prepare us for the general ministry we will meet in our appointments. As life-long learners we are responsible to acquire the other tools, skills, and educational advantages that will help us better serve the people of our churches and communities.
It is important that pastors spend time with the SPRC/PPRC to determine what the current needs of the congregation are. After determining the needs of the congregation, then set forth a ministry plan for education that will help improve your ministry within your church. As pastors we should never stop learning. We constantly need to update our skills so we can stay abreast of the ever changing world we live in.
Blessings, Mike Wuehler |
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SE District Office - MN Annual Conference UMC |
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Published monthly for the leadership of the United Methodist Churches in the SE District |
