What is a Christian Educator?
“Christian educators are persons called by God to a ministry of education who demonstrate their faith in and love for Jesus Christ, are dedicated to the life of faith and are serious in purpose, honest in character, and joyful in service ... It is expected that Christian educators be persons with skills and training in biblical interpretation, Reformed theology, human development, religious education theory and practice, and the polity, programs, and mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). They should be encouraged by their session and presbytery to meet, or prepare to meet, the accrediting requirements defined in [G-14.0720].” (Book of Order G-14.0710 and G.14-0711.)
These pages are for educators, Christian Education Committees, certification advisors, presbyteries and others interested in educators and/or certification. Christian educators are persons called to and employed in the ministry of education in a particular church, churches or governing bodies.
Looking for Christian education curriculum options?
PC(USA) Congregational Ministries Publishing can help you find the materials for your church’s educational ministry.
Continuing education for volunteers
Opening Doors to Discipleship, the free online training resource, offers three courses:
- Course A, Teaching Skills
- Course B, Bible Background
- Course C, Presbyterian/Reformed Faith
Each course provides 12 sessions of interactive learning for volunteer training, leader development, or with Course B, member faith formation. Contact your presbytery resource center or the Office of Christian Education for the PC(USA) log-in code. For security purposes, this number is unavailable on the Web. Please note the new policies for educator certification regarding these course meeting some of the requirements for the enrolled educational assistant level.
Support and advocacy for Christian Educators
The Association of Presbyterian Church Educators is a professional association concerned with the advancement of education in the church and is committed to the on-going witness of our faith in the Gospel.
For models, best practices and policies from presbyteries and synods on Christian Educators, visit MGB Connect.
Training materials for Educator Certification Advisors
Educator Certification Advisors, the primary support of Christian educators active in the process of certification, can now engage in an interactive training from their own computers on their own time. Experience this new ministry tool as a part of the resources available to Advisors.
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