Hybrid Courses — Self-paced plus scheduled Zoom sessions
 
The Pathways for Ministry Certificate Program is designed for lay ministers and laity who are leaders in congregations. The certificate program prepares participants to better understand the Bible, preaching, pastoral care, and innovative leadership. In a culture where laity are called upon to do more as leaders, this is the perfect certificate program to prepare for ministry. Each course is limited to 25 students. 
 
Course schudule
 
New Testament — Aug. 24-Sept. 27, 2025
Dr. Laura Holmes, Professor of New Testament, Wesley Theological Seminary
This course introduces participants to the Gospels, the Pauline letters, and other New Testament books. Participants will learn about the formation and central themes of the New Testament and develop skills in biblical interpretation, or exegesis, as a basis for preaching and teaching. By taking the course, participants will more fully grasp the breadth of meaning in the New Testament texts and grow more able to exegete, proclaim, and apply scripture in preaching, teaching, and participation in the life of the congregation. Learn more.
 
Old Testament — Oct. 12-Nov. 15, 2025
Dr. Katherine E. Brown, Adjunct Faculty, Wesley Theological Seminary
This course introduces participants to the formation and main events of the Hebrew Bible, placing the text in its Ancient Near Eastern context and exploring the ways key themes weave through the biblical books and into church life. By taking the course, students will more fully grasp the breadth of meaning in Old Testament texts and grow more able to exegete, proclaim, and apply scripture in preaching, teaching, and participation in the life of the congregation. Learn more.
 
Preaching — Nov. 30-Dec. 20, 2025, and Jan. 4-17, 2026
Dr. Hyemin Na, Assistant Professor of Worship, Media and Culture and Chapel Elder of Oxnam Chapel, Wesley Theological Seminary
This course will introduce participants to core elements that comprise preaching. The course has been designed as a precursor to a more robust introduction to preaching itself. The six modules will guide participants to interpret Scripture text for the work of preparing sermons, introduce concepts in the form and delivery of sacred speech, and conclude with the delivery of a mini sermon. By taking the course, participants will become more confident in proclaiming the gospel. Learn more.
 
Pastoral Care — Feb. 1-March 7, 2026
Dr. Michael S. Koppel, Howard Chandler Robbins Professor of Pastoral Theology & Congregational Care, Wesley Theological Seminary
This course introduces participants to the basic functions of congregational care, learning ways to provide spiritual guidance and emotional care as well as when and how to be a knowledgeable resource for referrals to appropriate services. By taking the course, participants will be more able to oversee appropriate congregational care issues. Learn more.
 
Approaches to Leadership — March 22-28 and April 6-May 2, 2026
Dr. Jessica L. Anschutz, Interim Director and Editor, Leading Ideas, Lewis Center for Church Leadership Participants will learn how to lead a congregation toward its vision and mission. They will learn ways to navigate obstacles while moving towards transformation. By taking the course, participants will be able to discern the context and engage the congregation in moving toward fulfilling their mission. Learn more.
 
CEU credit
 
One CEU will be awarded for the successful completion of each course.
 
Fees
 
Purchase all five courses together through June 30, 2025, for $300. (Courses are also available à la carte for $100 each.) Some courses may require the purchase of additional reading materials.