The Growth in Faith and Discipleship Pathway is designed for learners who feel called to deepen their spiritual life and expand their capacity to serve in their congregation. Through four core courses, you'll explore inclusive intergenerational ministry, cultivate sustainable spiritual practices, develop skills in small-group leadership, and discover how to live out your baptismal calling in everyday life. Whether you're exploring a call to leadership, seeking to strengthen your faith community, or simply responding to God's invitation to grow as a disciple, this pathway offers the formation and practical tools you need to serve faithfully.

This pathway equips lay leaders with the theological foundation and practical skills needed to lead meaningful worship and deliver compelling Lutheran proclamation. Participants will explore the biblical and theological roots of Lutheran liturgy, develop proficiency in worship planning and leadership, and learn the complete process of sermon preparation and delivery. Through a combination of foundational theology, hands-on practice, and advanced techniques, learners will gain confidence in their unique preaching voice while honoring Lutheran tradition. By the end of this pathway, participants will be prepared to plan and lead Gospel-centered worship.

This pathway provides a comprehensive foundation in biblical literacy and theological identity, equipping students to read Scripture through a Lutheran lens. Beginning with introductions to both the Old and New Testaments, students will develop essential interpretive skills and explore the historical and cultural contexts of biblical texts. The pathway then examines core Lutheran beliefs and confessional teachings before exploring how Lutheran theology applies to contemporary contexts and global expressions of the faith. Through this sequence, participants will gain the knowledge and tools needed to interpret Scripture faithfully, articulate Lutheran distinctives, and live out their Lutheran Christian identity in meaningful ways today.

This pathway invites participants on a journey from discovering their prophetic voice to developing sustainable practices of community engagement and care. Learners will explore how to advocate for justice, extend radical hospitality, walk alongside neighbors in mutual accompaniment, and navigate the inevitable conflicts that arise in authentic community work. Grounded in biblical foundations and contemporary theology, this pathway equips faith communities to move beyond church walls and into meaningful relationships with their neighbors and the world. 

This comprehensive pathway equips current and emerging congregational leaders with the foundational knowledge, relational skills, and strategic vision needed to guide healthy, mission-focused churches. Beginning with essential governance practices and moving through gift-based leadership development, collaborative team building, and strategic planning, participants will gain both practical competencies and theological grounding for effective church leadership. The pathway emphasizes inclusive, collaborative approaches that honor diverse gifts while maintaining strong organizational structures and sustainable planning practices.

The interdisciplinary pathway is about meeting your needs. Choose any four core or specialty courses we offer that speak to your interests, questions, and/or contexts.