Pioneer Ministry
This short course is a dynamic and significant contribution to reflective practice on pioneering and fresh expressions. It draws together key practitioners for encouragement, discussion, and learning.
This short course is a result of the collaboration between Methodist Pioneering Pathways, VentureFX and Cliff College. The course is intended for those, lay or ordained, who are involved in pioneer ministry, working with those beyond the reach of existing forms of church to form new ecclesial communities or fresh expressions of church. It is open to people of any church tradition or denomination.
The Pioneer Ministry course covers issues such as the characteristics and the spirituality of pioneers and looks at the background of pioneer mission in Scripture and the life of the Church. It also looks in some depth at the distinctive missional values which underpin pioneer ministry and mission.
The short course examines issues to do with forming new church communities, such as, ‘What do we mean by Church, and how will we recognise a new church when it has been formed?’ and, ‘How can new expressions of church develop well in relation to existing forms of church?’ It also addresses many of the practical matters associated with pioneering such as worship, accountability and oversight, working towards sustainability and succession planning, and explores the challenge of forming disciples of Jesus in a pioneer setting. Following the week of learning, participants will have the opportunity to consolidate their learning by submitting either a video or write-up about a pioneer project or missional idea.
It was perfectly relevant to the life of a pioneer and I was left feeling affirmed.
Well balanced and organised, with inspirational leadership.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the course and gained a great deal of insight, both personally and theologically.
A good rhythm and pace with useful areas covered in a very helpful learning environment.
I was met exactly ‘where I’m at’ with relevant, balanced content, both practical and stretching.
A feast of usefulness and lots to chew on!
The 2025 dates for this course are yet to be confirmed - please contact shortcourse@cliffcollege.ac.uk for any questions.
The cost of £300 includes all teaching materials, tutorial support and meals throughout your stay. Overnight accommodation and breakfast from Monday to Friday costs £198, with accommodation for Sunday night available at an additional cost; details of this will be sent to you via your course confirmation email.
Bookings are made through the Cliff College online shop - payment, either in full or a deposit of £60, can be made by card. If a church, employer or another person or organisation is paying for you to take this course, please complete the booking process and select 'BACs' as your Payment Method on the payment screen. This will complete your order without charging your account, and you will be emailed an invoice which can be forwarded to the party responsible for payment.