Formal Education Opportunities for Minsiters
For Ministers Pursuing Degrees
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary: for those interested in pursuing a Master's Degree, SWBTS now allows the substitution of at least 3 years of ministry exemplary experience for the required bachelor's degree, and all classes for Master's Degree are offered online, and students from the Abilene-Callahan Baptist Association will receive a 50% discount.
Contact Tim Rhoades, Admissions Counselor, SWBTS
Email
(817) 921-8509
Abilene Christian University, Graduate School of Theology: offering Masters and Doctors degrees in ministry (in person and online), and a new Graduate Certificate in Practical Ministry, with online courses available.
Abilene Christian University Website
Hardin-Simmons University, Logsdon School of Theology: offering a Bachelor's Degree with a Christian Studies Major, preparing graduates with a strong foundation in Scripture, and preparing them at a basic level for ministry through the church. This major also equips students for more advanced study in a graduate program.
Cohort Opportunities
Strong Big Country Pastor Cohort
Developed by Kevin Abbott, Director of Pastoral Health Networks with Texas Baptists, this is a cohort for area pastors in the Big Country.
With coaching and monthly meetings (held at Hardin-Simmons University), this 5 month journey begins February 17 and concludes with a retreat for pastors at Buena Vista, Colorado (August 2-6). Topics are led by a variety of special guests: 1) Lifelong Leader Development, 2) Coaching Skills, 3) Knowing Yourself, 4) Leading Change, 5) Mental Health in Ministry, 6) Rest/Soul-Care/Community/Lots of Fun (in Colorado!).
Costs are covered by Texas Baptists, except for 6 Books for each session and the travel to and from Colorado Springs. Don't let cost prohibit your participation; funds are available with the ACBA to help.
To register (indicate "Abilene Cohort"):
Sexual Abuse Prevention
Join this gathering of executive and denominational leaders focused around organizational health and the role of holistic stewardship in making our churches and Christian ministries forces for good in our world. As we answer God’s call as Christians to be lights to the world, we must consider how the leadership and administration of ministries shape their culture and how that culture impacts the brightness of our light. We will explore what it means to be a force for good starting with each member of our team.
Follow this link for more info: https://sbcabuseprevention.com/forcesforgood
