New Certificate Prepares Church Leaders

From fostering belonging to addressing isolation and mental health, the new Future Church Leadership certificate equips leaders and faith communities to navigate ministry in a changing world. The certificate program provides practical tools for those who serve faithfully across ministry contexts to lead change and shape sustainable ministries.

Funded in part through a $1 million grant in 2021 from Lilly Endowment Inc., the certificate is a collaborative effort between Baylor’s Office of Engaged Learning in the College of Arts & Sciences and the Program for the Future Church at Baylor’s George W. Truett Theological Seminary. It serves pastors, church elders and deacons, Sunday school leaders, nonprofit and mental health professionals, social workers, church lay leaders and more.

“These individuals may not be preaching in the pulpit or setting the vision for ministry, but they are the ones who make ministry possible week after week and carry the weight of care, coordination and creativity in ways that often go unseen,” said Dustin D. Benac, Th.D., clinical assistant professor of philanthropy and organizational studies in Baylor’s College of Arts & Sciences and director and co-founder of the Program for the Future Church at Truett Seminary. “The Future Church Leadership certificate honors the role of these leaders and equips them with the tools to take the next step in their ministries.”