New pastor training class

New pastor training class:
learning to serve

By Gerald Schnarrenberger

DALLAS, Texas—The church conducted the largest new pastor training class in several years Aug. 30 to Sept. 2. With an attendance of 69 men and women, the class included 17 people currently serving in various pastoral capacities and 25 members, plus spouses. Classes took place at the Dallas Training Center at the Omni Park West Hotel.

Joseph Tkach, church president; Dan Rogers, superintendent of U.S. ministers; Mike Feazell, national publications director; and several Church Administration staff members taught the classes. Their presentations covered the material from the early lessons of the church’s 24-lesson new pastor training course.

Within the next year, all pastors and interns will complete the required training. District superintendents will teach the class material not covered in Dallas in central locations near the new pastors. Members who attended in Dallas can also attend these additional classes if they live within driving distance of the class locations.

Some have wondered why members were allowed to audit the classes. Mr. Rogers said: “Everyone in the church needs to be trained for ministry.” The members who were trained will not pastor churches, but they can help serve their congregations in many other ways. The training they received in Dallas helps prepare them for that service.

Many attendees made glowing comments about the dedication of all who attended. Pastors and members were excited about the training and the opportunity to share ideas and fellowship. Several said that they felt valued and immersed in Christian love by the other attendees and the church staff.

The class concluded with a commissioning ceremony and communion. The pastors (senior pastors, assistant pastors and interns) were commissioned to their respective duties, but everyone, including members and spouses of pastors, received a certificate of training signed by Dr. Tkach and Mr. Rogers.

Becky Abney
Pastoral team