TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Emergency Response Training

Training Opportunities for Ministers and Volunteers

For Church Ministers, Leaders, and other Members


West Central Texas: Emergency Preparedness Conference:

The intent of this one-day conference is to bring the region's emergency management & preparedness stakeholders together for discussion, networking, & education on issues of common concern & interest.  Areas of interest include natural, technological, & human-caused hazards affecting our regional communities.

Target Audience:
  • County & Local officials
  • Emergency Management Coordinators
  • First Responders
  • Healthcare/Public Health
  • Military
  • Non-Governmental Organizations
  • Independent School Districts
  • Other organizations involved in emergency preparedness & response in the region.
Event Info:
  • Thursday, September 4th, 2025
  • 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Attendee Registration Check-In: 8 AM - 8:45 AM)
  • Abilene Convention Center: 1100 N 6th St., Abilene, TX 79601
  • Registration: $50 
  • Lunch & Refreshments Included to all Registered attendees

Contact: Jason Kelton: jkelton@westcentraltexas.org OR

            Call: 325-672-8544

 Register 
(TEEX account required to register)

 

Encouraging  Podcasts for Pastors/Ministers

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The Gospel Coalition offers options for various podcasts.  On their home page click on "Podcasts" for a listing of optional themes and subjects.

The Gospel Coaltion

For Ministers

 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.

Hardin-Simmons University Website

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Mental and Emotional Health for Ministers and Their Families

For possible fees associated with any Counseling, the ACBA has funds available to assist with this ministry to our Pastors and Families

Counseling Services/Texas Baptists

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For any fees associated with the following resources for Pastors, the ACBA has funds available to assist.

One-on-one coaching and encouragement for church pastors

2Cultivate is a ministry which involves "building relationships with church leaders to encourage, equip and engage."

2cultivate

 

Cohorts Available for Pastors

Pastor Strong Cohorts - "...a 5-month journey designed to support you in your ministry and personal resilience."  Sponsored by Texas Baptists.

Pastor Strong Cohorts

 

Small Church USA - a ministry of cohorts to coach and assist pastors of small churches, in their particular ministry context, to lead their church into revitalization.

Small Church USA

 

The Gospel Coalition Cohorts - a variety of 6-week cohorts covering helpful topics for ministry.

TGC Cohorts