This certificate program has been postponed until fall 2026.
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.
Hybrid Courses — Self-paced plus scheduled Zoom sessions
Designed as an equivalent to an executive leadership program, the Lewis Center for Church Leadership Certificate Program delivers an online, cohort-based learning experience for pastors that combines self-study and interactive peer learning. Participants will learn strategic actionable insights that enhance their ability to be effective in their ministry settings. Guided by experienced faculty from Wesley Theological Seminary and the Lewis Center, this certificate program includes five courses over the course of a year that help pastors explore visioning, administration, stewardship, innovation, and building key partnerships.
Course schedule
Strategic Planning and Visioning — Aug. 24-Oct. 4, 2025
Postponed
Dr. Lovett Weems Jr., Senior Consultant, Lewis Center for Church Leadership; and Distinguished Professor of Church Leadership, Wesley Theological Seminary
This course is a practicum in which participants practice the skills associated with planning and visioning, including data gathering, analysis, internal and external environmental scanning, and organizational history and cultural understanding. Learn more.
Strategic Administration: Refine Your Skills and Strengthen Church Leadership — Oct. 12-Nov. 22, 2025
Postponed
Dr. Jessica L. Anschutz, Director, Center for Adaptive and Innovative Ministry, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
The goal of this course is to strengthen and refine the skills needed for day-to-day ministry in order to maximize one’s impact and increase capacity for ministry. Course participants will learn to refine time management skills, enhance volunteer recruitment and retention, and better manage staff. They will also learn to cultivate skills for better meetings and delegation of tasks so that the congregation is empowered to lead. Learn more.
Strategic Stewardship: Money and Ministry — Nov. 30-Dec. 20, 2025, and Jan. 4-24, 2026
Postponed
Rev. Dr. Daryl L. Williams, Senior Pastor, St. Paul United Methodist Church of Oxon Hill, Maryland
This course considers what it means to lead effectively in the realm of money and faith, particularly in today’s post-attractional, post-pandemic environment. The focus is less on the nuts and bolts of church finances and more on the high-level leadership tasks and perspectives required to foster generosity, promote a healthier dialogue around issues of faith and money, and develop new strategies for economic sustainability. Learn more.
Strategic Innovation — Feb. 1-March 14, 2026
Postponed.
Dr. Emily Peck, Visiting Professor of Christian Formation and Young Adult Ministry and Co-Director of the Certificate in Children and Youth Ministry and Advocacy, Wesley Theological Seminary
Leaders must help congregations navigate the current challenges of today while still moving toward where God is calling them. This requires strategic innovation that maintains certain traditions but disrupts others. In this course, participants will learn how and when to innovate in a way that further moves the congregation toward flourishing. Learn more.
Strategic Partnerships: Building Relationships that Sustain Impact — March 22-28 and April 6-May 10, 2026
Postponed
Jaleesa Hall, Founder and Executive Director, Raising A Village Foundation
This course explores how strategic partnerships rooted in shared values, equity, and community power can transform organizations and expand impact. Students will learn how to assess, cultivate, and sustain mission-aligned partnerships that drive growth and deepen service. Learn more.
CEU credit
One CEU will be awarded for the successful completion of each course.
Fees
Purchase all five courses together for $3,000. Courses are also available à la carte for $1,000 each. Some courses may require the purchase of additional reading materials.
If you have any questions or problems, please email pathways@wesleyseminary.edu.