Do you feel called to be a leader? Learn more about our Leadership Training for Women in Ministry.
Vision New England -
Leadership Training for Women in Ministry
Here is some general information about Vision New England's leadership training program. Below is a list of the topics covered. You can click on any of the questions to go directly to that information. Click here to view or print a listing of classes.
Why leadership training for women?
In today’s rapidly changing culture, women have unique needs that require a varied and perceptive approach to ministry. No matter what their season of life, they need opportunities to grow spiritually, emotionally and intellectually. Because of their strategic involvement in the home, workplace and community, women are able to contribute significantly in reaching our world for Christ.
Women are key to God’s plan for evangelism and discipleship. Equipping leaders to meet these varied and growing needs is key to reaching the individual woman in our churches and communities. Women currently serving in leadership positions within the church are acutely aware of their need for more training and for additional leaders. A recent survey taken among 61New England women leaders, representing 54 churches and all New England states, revealed the top two needs for women’s ministries in the church were for leadership training and leadership recruitment.
Who is this training for?
This training initiative is primarily geared towards:
ASPIRING LEADERS:
"I really want to do this. I feel called to this ministry."
These leaders are eager to serve and are looking for "the next step."
AFFIRMED LEADERS: "Do you really think I can do this?"
These leaders have been encouraged by others to follow the Lord in serving Him.
ACKNOWLEDGED LEADERS: "Been there...done that...now what?"
Experienced leaders are always looking for further opportunities to grow and connect.
Our philosophy of ministry
MISSION STATEMENT: Our passion is to develop women in servant leadership for the equipping of God’s church and the enlarging of His Kingdom.
VISION STATEMENT: We envision women who are committed to serving the Lord:
- Continually connected to Him
- Confident in His call
- Compassionately reaching out to others
- Courageous in adversity
- Consistently bearing fruit
What will the training look like?
CERTIFICATE PROGRAM: 12 core courses, taught by a variety of experienced women leaders and educators. Homework and/or tests may be required to complete a given course. Those completing this course receive a Level One Certificate in Women’s Ministries.
NON-CERTIFICATE PROGRAM: Women may take individual classes as desired, and may opt to not fulfill the homework requirement.
How often—and where—will classes be held?
All 12 courses in the core curriculum will run at least four times during the year at a variety of locations around New England. It is possible to complete the curriculum in one year, but not necessary. See the "Program at a Glance" for details about dates and locations.
What materials will I need?
Each participant in the certificate program will receive a notebook that will include the class materials and additional ministry resources. Additional books or materials may need to be purchased to complete assignments.
Will I be graded?
Classes will be acknowledged as complete or incomplete. You will have 12 weeks following the class to complete the homework assignment.
Can I waive one of the Core Classes?
If you have taken recognized college courses in theology, Bible study methods, counseling, leadership development or women’s ministry training or a demonstrable equivalent, you may request a waiver from the Vision New England Women’s Director. This waiver is from the classroom portion but you must still complete and submit the assignment from the course.
How does the mentoring relationship augment the training?
The mentoring component is an integral part of the training. It is designed to connect women with women. Ideally, we want to facilitate interaction between women with years of experience in ministry with the next generation of women leaders. Mentoring opportunities and networking sessions will provide further contacts and resources. It is our desire to promote more intentional mentoring relationships, through email and small groups, which will continue after the training sessions are completed.
What are the "Hot Topic" forums?
Our culture’s progressively negative affect upon the church is alarming. Domestic violence, fractured families, stress, chemical dependency, sexual addictions are but a few of the devastating social ills that plague our communities and churches. As women in ministry it is important to be informed regarding these issues. These "hot topic" discussions will deal with some of these cultural issues, as well as other pertinent issues affecting the church. Our presenters are experts in their fields. Participants will be given time to dialogue with each other in small groups as well as with the presenters.
