What is Clergy Development?
The Board of Ordained Ministry is tasked by The Book of Discipline to provide support services for those in ministerial leadership in the areas of development, continuing education, formation in servant leadership and continuing spiritual growth in Christ (paragraph 635.o).
Continuing Education Funds
Continuing Education funds are provided through local churches’ contributions to the Ministerial Education Fund apportionment. Clergy members can apply annually (July 1 to July 1) for funds. A minimum of 0.5 C. E. U. or its equivalent must be available from the event, pilgrimage, DMin class, etc. in order for clergy to be eligible to receive these funds.
There are two tiers of funding: $200 (if you make more than $50,000 a year) or $400 (if you make less than $50,000 a year).
Clergy Coaching Funds
Coaching empowers and supports clergy as they become self-aware of their leadership and as they discover how best to lead in a particular situation. Funds are available to support coaching through local churches’ contributions to the Ministerial Education Fund apportionment. In the first year of a new appointment there is a $3,000 maximum. In the second year, a maximum of $2,000 and in the third year, a maximum of $1,000. The funds are paid directly to the coach.
Clergy Development Funds Clergy development funds are made available through local churches’ contributions to the Ministerial Education Fund apportionment. Clergy may request funds for continuing education and development that goes beyond the scope of the continuing education funds mentioned above. The Clergy Development subcommittee of the Board of Ordained Ministry reviews applications quarterly. Deadlines to apply are: January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1. Clergy are eligible to apply for these funds annually.
To complete the application, the following are required:
- A recommendation from your District Superintendent.
- A recommendation from your S/PPRC Chair (or equivalent)
- Evaluation of Learning
The funds are not available for completion of a seminary degree, course work programs, or a doctorate.
Resources
Learning Experiences Brochure (pdf)
Characteristics of Effective Clergy (Word)
For counseling and spiritual-direction services, please also consider the Ministerial Family Counseling Program
Moving Resources
Thrival Kit (PDF)