A partnership between the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta and Columbia Seminary, the Youth Ministry Leadership Initiative (YMLI), offers a youth ministry certification program. The program is designed for lay leaders and pastors who are committed to developing strong programs for youth within churches. YMLI will offer four more courses in the certification program this year at Columbia Theological Seminary:

May 4–5

Because the Bible Tells Me So: Putting the Bible Back in Bible Study, with by Beth Johnson, Bill Brown, and Jennifer Williams Wilson. The $150 program fee includes two meals.

August 24–25

How Presbyterians Talk About God: Theology and Polity, with Martha Moore-Keish and David Forney. The $150 program fee includes two meals. 

October 5–7

YMLI Beginning Retreat,  with Rodger Nishioka and Neema Cyrus-Franklin. The $150 program fee includes two meals. This weekend will allow participants to ask important questions about their particular call to youth ministry and youth ministry as a whole.  

December 7–8

Know Where to Turn When the Youth Turn to You, led by experienced professionals in the fields of youth development and counseling. This course will focus on practical pastoral care with youth and families. The $150 program fee includes two meals.

Occasional students who do not wish to complete the full certification program are welcome to register for courses. For registration details, see the Lifelong Learning calendar.