Perhaps you have noticed that many churches are closing, even across the Bible Belt. And almost all churches are smaller. The problem is not only declining population, but lack of leadership, and lack of trained leadership.
Churches believe God calls pastors and leaders for their churches, but training to sharpen leadership skills has not been available to everyone who felt called.
Until recently, ministers have had to travel to distant cities for training. Pastor Training Schools (PTS) is changing that.
The Charleston cohort will be the 31st locality with training available through PTS, which replaces Seminary Extension. Seminary Extension offered 17-week classes, but the new PTS classes will last six weeks, committing students to less time so that they can work around family health issues, church events that demand a lot of time, etc.
Costs are much lower, with tuition at only $125 per class. Students can continue at their own pace. Students who move to a new area can find a cohort conveniently located near them.
The first class offered will be Old Testament Survey I, taught by Joe Young of Charleston, beginning Aug. 3. Classes are from 6-8:30 p.m. on Mondays.
A center has been established at Faith Baptist Church, 30028 Highway 32, just east of Charleston.
Young will not be teaching all of the classes, as certified teachers from nearby areas will teach in their best subject areas.
Classes are available to people of all denominations and ethnic groups. Presently, classes are available only to men, but consideration is being made to offer additional programs for women.
The classes are not only for pastors, but for laymen such as elders, deacons, and Sunday school teachers who want to be more effective in their leadership roles.
For information, text 662-647-7021.
