News and Resources

Two New Course Offerings for Teachers and Preachers

Decatur, GA—The Center for Lifelong Learning at Columbia Theological Seminary announces two new courses designed especially for teachers and preachers.

Seven Concepts That Will Change Your Teaching will take place February 23-25, 2015. This new course is designed for congregational educators—lay teachers, pastors, teaching staff, and program staff. Course instructor Israel Galindo will introduce participants to seven concepts (or “big ideas”) about teaching and learning that will form a framework for new ways to approach teaching and learning in work and ministry. Register now to take advantage of early bird discounts for registrations completed before December 15.

“Often, congregational educators find themselves stuck in a teaching routine,” says Dr. Galindo, associate dean for Lifelong Learning. “It will help participants gain a better understanding of how learning actually happens, and how to refine their teaching skills to become more effective educators.” Galindo, an expert in congregational and organizational leadership, Christian faith formation and education, is a frequent contributor to Columbia Theological Seminary’s blog.

On May 4-6, Dr. Anna Carter Florence, Peter Marshall Professor of Preaching and Worship, puts a twist on dramatic theory and invites participants to discover how Preaching the Verbs can enliven the preaching task. Participants will read the biblical “script” by focusing on the verbs that are given and chosen by the characters. The seminar will include lecture and group discussion, individual study and reflection, and opportunities to practice “preaching the verbs” as they begin a sermon draft or lesson plan for future use.

“If you do a quick survey of any bible passage, you’ll find that what is true in life is also true in scripture: the verbs dominate,” says Carter Florence. “It’s what we do and don’t do that preoccupies human beings. And it’s those verbs with outcomes we cannot fully imagine for ourselves – live, liberate, forgive, resurrect - that the church offers and listeners reach for, week after week.” Register now for this class and find out what happens when we read Scripture and let the verbs lead. Extended-stay options offered for those who wish to stay on campus for worship planning and independent study.

Contact information:

The Center for Lifelong Learning

at Columbia Theological Seminary

404-687-4577

LifelongLearning@ctsnet.edu

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Media Contact:

Michael K. Thompson

Director of Communications

Columbia Theological Seminary

PO Box 520

701 S. Columbia Drive