Class Descriptions

Community of Christ Temple School Courses:

Introduction to Priesthood Ministry (MP300) – This course explores the covenant principles at the heart of faithful priesthood ministry. These covenant principles form the foundation on which responsibilities of specific priesthood offices are built. Required class for all new ordinands. 

Introduction to Scripture (SS400) – This uses video lectures from instructors Tony and Charmaine Chvala-Smith. This eight-week course defines and explores the nature of scripture in the life of the church; helps students understand genre, literary context, and historical and cultural context; guides in the responsible use of the Old Testament and dealing with difficult texts; provides a sample small-group Bible study; and explores the function of the lectionary in sacraments, preaching, and teaching. Students practice an eight-step exegesis process. Required for all new ordinands. 

Ministry of the Disciple (MP301) – This 8-week class engages disciples in spiritual practices and active learning focusing on what is important to know, be, and do as disciples and ministers of Jesus Christ. Designed to equip members and introduce friends to the core mission of Community of Christ. 

Ministry of the Deacon (MP302) – This 6-week class explores what Deacons need to know, be, and do in their essential role in the congregation. Students learn how the Deacons’ ministry connects ministries of hospitality, preparation, and stewardship with households, families, the congregation, and community. Required for all preparing for ordination to the office of Deacon.

Ministry of the Teacher (MP303) – This 6-week class explores what Teachers need to know, be, and do in their essential role in the congregation. Students learn how the Teachers’ ministry connects with individuals to encourage peace and healing of relationships. Required for all preparing for ordination to the office of Teacher.

Ministry of the Priest (MP304) – This 8-week class explores what Priests need to know, be, and do in their essential role. Students learn how Priests’ ministry connects with households, families, congregations, and community. The class explores sacramental ministry and creates a personal ministry plan. Required for all preparing for ordination to the office of Priest.

Ministry of the Elder (MP305) – This 8-week class explores what Elders need to know, be, and do in their essential role. Elders learn to lead Christ-centered congregational community by witness, invitation, and mentoring others in Christs mission. The class explores sacramental ministry and creates a personal ministry plan. Required for all preparing for ordination to the office of Elder.

Ministry of the High Priest (MP307) – This 8-week class gives new insights into the ministry of high priests in congregations, mission centers, and communities. The lessons give special attention to collaborative leadership; expectations and role of World Church ministers; and building bridges between people, congregations, and communities and where God is calling them to be.

Other classes:

Children and Youth Worker Core Training – This course takes about 4-weeks and covers types of child abuse, strategies for safeguarding youth and preventing abuse, guidance on handling incidents/reporting requirements, and other expectations of youth workers. Anyone wishing to work with children and young people within Community of Christ must participate in this course and be registered as a youth worker. This class does NOT complete the paperwork portion becoming a registered youth worker – check with your mission centre or pastor to complete the application. 

Ministry with Latter-day Seekers – This class is designed to introduce Community of Christ priesthood, disciples, and congregations to ministry with Latter-day Seekers. Participants will explore Mormon culture, deepen pastoral sensitivity toward Latter-day Seekers, identify and process personal or denominational bias, and learn to effectively articulate Community of Christ identity,mission, message, and beliefs. An experienced Latter-day Seeker minister will guide participants through readings, videos, dialogue, reflections and quizzes. Due to the sensitive nature and focus of this class, only Community of Christ members are permitted to enroll.

Introduction to Pastors Ministry – Those who accept the responsibility to lead in Community of Christ congregations can benefit from this basic 6-week course that explores:
  – Pastor as Representative Minister
  – Pastor as Listener Leader
  – Pastor as Presider
  – Pastor as Priesthood Shepherd
  – Pastor as Administrator
  – Pastor as Resource 

Faithful Disagreement – Mini Class – This 3-week class will explore the “Faithful Disagreement” document produced by the Community of Christ and it’s connection to our Enduring Principles of “Worth of All Persons, Unity in Diversity, Responsible Choices, and Pursuit of Peace.” Rather than a developed program, these principles help shape how we can keep community as a central part of our faith, even when we strongly disagree with each other. An interview with President of the Council of Twelve, Ron Harmon, one of the shapers of this document, is included. 

Generational Overview – Mini Class – This 3-week class will review the rapidly changing generational paradigms in western culture and their effect on people’s approach to faith and world views. Challenging questions have affected our concepts of mission in Community of Christ and are consistently viewed through each lens of generational experiences. This class will help us peer through different lenses and consider future prospects for relevance in the future.