It has been recognised recently that Regents should become central to the Elim training programmes, and the College was asked to create a detailed course that would give prospective ministers a clear understanding of the role involved before embarking on their full-time training.

It is not difficult to start well in ministry, running on enthusiasm and great short-term ideas, but as a “calling” presents its challenges, it’s then that we require those deeper foundations to draw upon. The Ministry Foundation Certificate addresses known difficulties by developing students understanding of how to engage with scripture, whilst looking at the history of the Christian faith and its core beliefs, addressing key issues that face our world today. The course focuses on practical, relevant, and contemporary material, taught by those with considerable expertise in their field. The MFC will stretch your thinking, causing you to consider a variety of views and other opinions beyond your own, so you begin to develop a wider understanding of what you believe, and why you believe it. We want leaders serving our movement who are thriving, not simply surviving, so they will have a healthy, long-term ministry. It is also vital as a Pentecostal church that we understand our unique role as Pentecostals alongside the wider church of Christ.

For those keen to start in church ministry, or preparing for mission, the MFC can be completed full-time over one year. For others studying part-time may be more applicable to co-inside with their usual work, family and church commitments, or other weekly activities.

The course itself is broken down into 6 modules, 4 of which are compulsory, covering Biblical Interpretation, Evangelism and Apologetics, History and Doctrine, and Pentecostal Theology. This is followed by two modules of your own choice that relate to an area of interest, or are specific to the context into which you feel called.

Each module starts with 4 days of focused teaching on the Regents College campus, giving you the background knowledge to continue in your personal study, which is followed by an assessment relevant to your ministry direction, but also encouraging you to look at a deeper level into the specific topics. 

The course can be undertaken at 2 levels. For those wanting to achieve a formal qualification, validated by The University of Chester, it can be completed at Certificate, Diploma or Degree level.  Alternatively, those candidates who wish to benefit from the training, but not achieve a formal qualification, can study for a recognised Regents College/Elim Certificate.

A third option is to study the modules as part of a BA in Applied Theology through Regents accredited degree programmes, validated by The University of Chester.

The Ministry Foundation Certificate presents a wonderful opportunity to build a foundation for a lifelong journey of personal growth, developing an on-going ministry in serving Jesus and His Kingdom mission.