Learning and formation for worship leaders and preachers

Leading God’s people in worship and preaching good news are the key tasks of Lay Preachers, and others who share in local and regional leadership in lay worship teams, to enrich personal discipleship and faithful communities at mission in the world

Listed below are recommended study units for Lay Preacher candidates, those in Ministry of Pastor roles with a focus on leading worship and preaching, and local worship team leaders. Consult with the CTM’s Lay Leadership Educator and with your presbytery contact person to confirm the suitability of any particular unit for your personal learning goals and your stage of discernment and training.

A wide range of other engaging study units can be found in the 2018 timetable for Pilgrim Theological College.

Semester 1: 26 February – 1 June 2018

An introduction to the Old Testament / Hebrew Scriptures, with Rev Dr Monica Melanchthon, Tuesday evenings in-class, or online. See page 31: BA1/2/8010P Life, History and the People of God in the Hebrew Scriptures.

An introduction to Theology, with Rev Dr Geoff Thompson, Thursday afternoons in-class only. See page 44: CT1/8000P Christianity’s Big Ideas.

An introduction to liturgy and worship, with Rev Dr Stephen Burns, Thursday afternoons in-class only. Held at Trinity College but enrol through Pilgrim, see DL0200T/1200T/8200T Introduction to Liturgical Thought and Practice.

Semester 2: 30 July – 2 November 2018

An introduction to the New Testament / Christian Scriptures, with Rev Dr Sean Winter, Tuesday afternoons in-class, or online. See page 35: BN1/2/8010P Earliest Christianity.

An introduction to Christology, with Rev Dr Sally Douglas, Thursday mornings in-class only. See page 45: CT2/8020P Jesus, Discipleship, and Justice.

Common Questions & Answers:

• Do I have to travel to Parkville? No. Many of Pilgrim’s courses are available in online mode: “online programs are best described as accompanied distance learning, because they put students in constant touch with their teachers and peers.” Pilgrim course teachers and support staff can assist with technology questions and issues, and you are connected to an online class of people exploring faith and theology just like you.
• Are the course teachers any good? Yes! Each course leader is an experienced educator, minister and leader who shares their passion for active Christian faith and engaged theological thinking.
• Are these courses expensive? Fees are set by the University of Divinity, and an audit option is available for in-class courses. Remember that in addition to FEE-HELP, the CTM offers a range of grants for lay education, particularly for women studying theology and seeking to serve the Uniting Church. Have a look at the section headed “Grants for Lay Education” where you will find both an application form and guidelines.
• Do I have to write long essays? Each course includes standard assessment tasks, but talk with your course teacher for equivalent tasks that may be more relevant to your leadership role and can also meet the required word count. Don’t underestimate the practical value of the expanded and deeper thinking that an essay brings – challenges are what help us to grow as leaders and disciples.
• Is catering included? You can provide your own catering, or enjoy meals and snacks from Sage+Grace Cafe on-site in Parkville.

To register/enrol for any of these Pilgrim courses, and for details about FEE-HELP, please contact Pilgrim’s Registrar, Erlinda Loverseed: erlinda.loverseed@pilgrim.edu.au or (03) 9340 8800.