Summary of the Meeting:

The March First Monday gathering centered on the importance of competency-based pastoral training. Competency-based training ensures that individuals not only gain knowledge but can demonstrate specific skills necessary for their role, focusing on what pastors must know, be, and do. The session featured speakers from Re-Forma and the Berean Institute, including Paul Hemming and Rick Petty. They discussed the global standard for training pastors developed by Re-Forma, which focuses on four key competencies: Leading like Jesus, Handling the Word, Making Disciples, and Shepherding God’s People.

Paul Hemming emphasized that Re-Forma’s standard is built around competency-based assessments, ensuring that pastors can demonstrate their abilities in these critical areas. Those who successfully meet all competencies are awarded a certificate endorsed by the World Evangelical Alliance, adding credibility and recognition to their training.

The presenters also highlighted the use of digital tools, such as Zoom and WhatsApp, to deliver training, particularly through Life Transformation Groups. These groups provide real-world contexts for pastors to practice and demonstrate their competencies. Additionally, the partnership between Re-Forma and the Berean Institute was discussed, as Berean offers an online platform to help pastors and trainers effectively engage with Re-Forma’s global competency standards. The meeting concluded with a call to action for pastor trainers to raise up new leaders by using collaboration and digital resources to enhance training efforts.

Discussion Questions:

Reflective:

1. How can competency-based training improve the effectiveness of pastoral leaders in your region? 
2. What challenges have you encountered in using digital tools for training pastors?

Action-Oriented:

1. What steps can you take to utilize competency-based training in your current pastoral training efforts? (By competencies we are talking about abilities relating to ministry.) 
2. How can you leverage digital resources like those available through Re-Forma and the Berean Institute to enhance your training activities?