Elder and Deacon Training

Mini-Manual for Ruling Elders by Winnebago Presbytery: a series of six 15-30 minute training sessions ideal for the beginning of session meetings, grouped into a larger retreat event,  or for individual training.

Coming Alive in Christ: Training for PC(USA) Elders and Deacons Based on the Constitutional Questions: "This resource has been created for the purpose of providing teaching elders/ministers of Word and Sacrament and other congregational leaders with content to adequately train ruling elders and deacons in their ministries with God’s people." 
Leader Guides are available for both a monthly training series or for retreat use.  Access to this free material is through Equip PC(USA) Training; the link above takes you there.

Handbook for Ruling Elders and Deacons: A printable comprehensive guide for deacons and elders.

Preparation for Ordered Ministry by Theocademy: "What does one need to know to be an effective leader in the Presbyterian church?  These videos will explore and answer these and other questions about ordained leadership in the Presbyterian tradition." This series includes 13 sessions each with short video and guide great for use in a session meeting, retreat setting, or individual training/learning. 

Presbyterian 101:​ A 43 minute video with Chris Halverson, Associate Stated Clerk of Milwaukee Presbytery going over the structure of the PCUSA and an overview of sessions, presbyteries, synods and the General Assembly and how we're all connected.  A copy of Chris' slide presentation is also available- click here.

The Session Ref: Members of a mock session meeting learn skills for a productive session meeting in this humorous 7min video.

Regarding Ruling Elders: A Monthly Series for Serving Faithfully: A monthly article featuring insight and voices from across the PC(USA).  Article: Equipped for Ministry by Frank James

Basics of Reformed Theology: A one hour video with Professor Cynthia Rigby of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

An Introduction to Theology with Dr. Shannon Craigo-Snell by Theocademy: A 27 minute video.

​Leadership and Adaptation

The Church Experimentation Starter Kit by Faith + Lead: "Many churches know they need to change, yet don't know how or are unwilling to risk it. The work of faithful innovation means cultivating an environment where experimentation and adaptation become a key response to shifting cultural and social norms." A free, downloadable pdf.

PRC- Practical Resources for Churches: A growing collection of webinars on various topics for ministry from stewardship to hybrid worship and faith formation.  Use this link for recorded webinars on innovative church: ​www.prcli.org/webinars-res/innovative-church/. 

Additional Resources

​​Our Leadership Development Facebook page - a great resource for leadership development events, retreats, retreat centers, and conferences