Explore Columbia Seminary!
COLUMBIA THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY EXISTS TO EDUCATE AND NURTURE FAITHFUL, IMAGINATIVE, AND EFFECTIVE LEADERS FOR THE SAKE OF THE CHURCH AND THE WORLD.
Explore our degree programs and other learning opportunities for those who want to become pastors or congregational leaders, work in non-profits, or teach future church leaders. We also offer a robust schedule of courses for anyone who wants non-degree, Biblically-grounded lifelong learning, either in-person or online.
Whether you’re still discerning (or assisting someone who is), an alumni, looking to further your training, or just curious about us and all we have to offer, we’re glad you’re here. Here’s some basic information to get you started. Click the tiles below to explore more about Columbia Theological Seminary:
Events
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The Role of the Minister in a Dying Congregation (Online)
01/04/2021
This course will focus on helping clergy and laypersons explore the challenges of pastoral leadership in a dying congregation. Instructor Mandy Egland Cole will share her wisdom gained from her own personal experience and journey in leading a congregation...
Colloquy for Mid-Career Clergy
01/04/2021
CANCELLED This Colloquy is designed for mid-career clergy (15-25 years in full-time ministry) who seek to participate in formative conversations to reflect on their vocation and call at this stage of their career.
Wisdom of the Christian Mystics (Online)
01/04/2021
Mystics through the ages are remembered for their love of God and whole-hearted approach to living the Gospel in their daily lives. Our emphasis will be on their timeless wisdom and how it helps us to live today. Carl...
The Coaching Institute at Columbia Theological Seminary (TCI@CTS)
01/11/2021
TCI@CTS is an application-based program that follows a rigorous, proven coaching program accredited by the International Coaching Federation. For complete information and a link to the application for TCI@CTS visit https://www.ctsnet.edu/lifelong-learning/certificate-programs/coaching-institute/.
Presbyterian Polity (Presbytery of the Wabash Valley Ruling Elder Training Program) Online
01/18/2021
This course is limited to members of the Presbytery of Wabash Valley. Its focus is on Presbyterian Polity.
Contemplation and Compassion: Engaging Two Aspects of the Spiritual Life
02/01/2021
Examine the prayerful and active dimensions of the spiritual life in this four-week online class. The course will engage the writings of several modern spiritual “giants” such as Oscar Romero, Mother Teresa and Howard Thurman.
Stand-Up Preaching: What Comedians Can Teach Us About Sermonic Craft ONLINE
02/01/2021
This online course will explore the essential aspects of effective preaching through critical engagement with stand-up comedy. Together we examine the many points of overlap between a successful stand-up routine and an effective sermon
The Hidden Lives of Congregations (Online)
02/01/2021
This is a five-week study on understanding the dynamics of congregations. Participants will gain insights into the hidden dynamics that impact many facts of congregational life, including pastoral leadership, spirituality, development, and crises.
Teaching for Transformation with Older Adults (Older Adult Ministry Certificate Course) (Online)
02/11/2021
Teaching and learning methods that enhance engagement in, and ownership of, the learning process are as important for older adults as they are for all ages. Explore learning styles, examine effective teaching methods, experience current teaching-learning theories, and consider...
Spiritual Formation and Older Adults (Older Adult Ministry Certificate Program) (Online)
02/11/2021
The last third of life presents some of life’s richest spiritual, theological and ethical challenges. This course will explore how congregations and other communities of faith can engage in conversations and practices that will allow them to actively nurture...
Seeking God: An Invitation to A Deeper Spiritual Life (Online)
02/15/2021
This four-week online retreat is for anyone seeking to cultivate a more meaningful life with God. It may also be helpful for those exploring new directions and callings. With Bill Brown, Carl McColman, Deedra Rich, Debra Weir
The Sense of Wonder: An Online Day Retreat
02/20/2021
Mark Burrows invites us to open to the sense of wonder as we explore the work of poets, theologians, mystics and artists bearing witness to the Mystery. Join us!
Conflict Transformation (Online)
03/01/2021
In this study participants will explore a workable approach to conflict via the framework of conflict transformation, as opposed to “conflict resolution.”
The Return of the Prodigal (Online)
03/01/2021
A five week interactive course of study of Henri Nouwen’s most popular work on the Rembrandt painting of the Return of the Prodigal.
The Disciple-Making Church: To Grow the Future We Visit the Past (Thompson Scholars 2021)
03/22/2021
Now open for general registration instead of an application, the seminar will explore the concept of “the disciple-making church,” and what it means to develop mature disciples of Jesus Christ who make a real difference in the world by...
“Deep calls to Deep”: The Psalms in Transformative Dialogue (An Online Retreat)
04/05/2021
Explore the spiritual depths of the Psalms with Bill Brown. Join us and listen to the ancient and diverse voices in the Psalter. A course in the Certificate in Spiritual Formation.
The Church and People with Intellectual Disabilities (ONLINE)
04/11/2021
This course will equip ministry leaders to adapt congregational practices to value relationships with people with intellectual disabilities. A survey of age-stage considerations will prepare participants to better assess and responds to current and emerging needs in their own...
Leadership in Ministry: Kansas City
04/12/2021
The Leadership in Ministry Workshop at Kansas City is a twice-a-year peer-based clergy leadership development program and is part of the Pastoral Excellence Programs of the Center for Lifelong Learning. The spring session features webinars, online coaching groups, and individual...
Leadership in Ministry: Lynchburg, VA
04/19/2021
The Leadership in Ministry Workshop at Lynchburg VA is a twice-a-year peer-based clergy leadership development program and is part of the Pastoral Excellence Program of the Center for Lifelong Learning. The spring session features webinars, online coaching groups, and...
Come See Columbia Day
04/21/2021
Join Columbia Friendship Circle, a mission of the PW of the Synod of South Atlantic and Synod of Living Waters, for an on-campus day of worship, lessons, tours, good food and fellowship. Meet the scholarship winners, other CFC participants, and...
Understanding Congregations (online)
05/03/2021
This course is part of the Presbytery of Wabash Valley Ruling Elder program open to members of that presbytery. Special attention will be given to the nature of congregations as a particular model of the Church.
Leadership in Ministry: Boston
05/10/2021
The Leadership in Ministry Workshops at Boston is a twice-a-year, peer-based clergy leadership development program and is part of the Pastoral Excellence Program of the Center for Lifelong Learning. The spring session features webinars, online coaching groups, and individual coaching sessions.
Leadership in Ministry: Portland
05/17/2021
The Leadership in Ministry Workshops at Portland is a twice-a-year, peer-based clergy leadership development program and is part of the Pastoral Excellence Programs of the Center for Lifelong Learning. The spring session features webinars, online coaching groups and individual coaching sessions.
Sharing Our Stories: Tools for Renewing the Body of Christ (ONLINE)
05/17/2021
Participants in this four-week online course will practice together the power of storytelling as a process to unite communities around our shared experiences of the pandemic and our shared experiences of the biblical story.
Christian Education in the Smaller Church (Online)
08/30/2021
In this course participants will explore the realities, challenges, and joys of providing Christian education in the smaller church context.
12 Days to Becoming a Better Christian Teacher ONLINE
10/04/2021
Through this 12-day interactive self-directed study, teachers and Christian educators will acquire knowledge and skills to become better teachers. Each daily session takes 60 to 90 minutes. For Christian educators and teachers.
