TULSA — For several years now, Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery has been engaged in an extensive training program for lay preachers. This year, the program is expanding to provide training and support of church professionals to include educators.

"The Resourcing Congregations Committee wants to make these classes available to the educators in our presbytery, along with a support network specially designed for our educators," said Julie Burton, presbytery's Director of Congregational Resources.

Presbytery Approved Christian Educator (PACE), grew out of conversations with pastors within the presbytery. There is an educator certification course through the Presbyterian Church (USA). However staff educators cannot always take part, for a variety of reasons.

A Christian education course is part of the presbytery's Lay Academy offerings, but additional courses are offered at the same time as the regular course. For example, in May, participants may choose Preaching or Understanding Learners.

In July, the course will be Teacher Recruitment & Safety. Inspired by the model from the Presbytery of Charlotte, EOP isoffering these courses for anyone involved in Christian education, whether they are a staff person or a volunteer.

“Sometimes the person in charge of Christian education in a local congregation is drawing on very limited knowledge and experience, and they end up frustrated or burned out," Burton said.

"When that happens, the education programs suffer," she said. "Our goal is to give those persons the skills and confidence they need to lead their congregation’s education program.”

All the courses this year are being held at Goodland Academy in Hugo. For more information, contact the presbytery office.

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