The Certificate Program
The Washington Baptist Theological Seminary’s
School of Certification
The School of Certification is designed to empower lay leadership in overcoming the challenges of the 21st century. The programs are designed to extend, enhance, and enrich the tenure of pastors by strengthening pew involvement and participation.
Each course in the curriculum features a 12-week program divided into three modules of four weeks. Classes are held once per week on Saturday mornings. Sessions commence on the first Saturday in October each year. The following classes are offered:
The Deacon and Deaconess Classes
These two twelve-week power-packed courses will survey the present landscape in which ministry must be conducted. This course will surely move deacons and deaconesses from ceremony to service. There will be a focus on the need and development of ministry to the church.
The Church Trustee
This twelve-week course is designed to teach trustees and church administrative personnel the basics of good stewardship for the 21st century. The Church Trustee must have a well-rounded view of the church as well as the world of church finance. Year after year, churches have been plagued by tax rules and erroneous information. The Church Trustee is vital to the continued financial survival of the church.
Leadership Education in the Local Church
The Leadership Education course provides insight into leadership from more than one perspective. Each session will cover leadership in various ministries and demonstrates how as leaders, you may not hold the title attached to the role, but you are still a leader using the gifts and talents with which God has blessed you. This course also gives insight into the workings of various ministries within the church.
Tuition
The tuition for the Deacon, Deaconess and Trustee classes is $195.00. The tuition for Leadership Education in the Local Church class is $125.00. All students must register for classes prior to the start of the session.
Class Location
Classes are held in person at the Washington Baptist Theological Seminary, 4603 Eastern Avenue, Mt. Rainier, Maryland and Divine Faith Baptist Church, 1366 Cokey Road, Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Classes are also held virtually.
Class Time
Classes are held from 9:00 am – 11:00 am on Saturdays.
Faculty
Reverend Kenneth Thomas, Dean
Deacon Class
Deaconess Joan Hill, Assistant Dean
Sister Gwen Banks, Administrator
Trustees Class
Deaconess Fran Jones, noted author, “The Making of a Deaconess”
Deaconess Joan McIlwain
Deaconess Class
Reverend Dr. James Williams
Leadership Education in the Local Church
