The Great Plains Conference is committed to having clergy who are life-long learners. We believe that the life of a clergyperson is a spiritual journey of renewal and excellence in Jesus Christ. The responsibility of a clergyperson is to continue in study beyond the educational requirements for his/her clergy status (¶323.1a, b; 334.2d) and to demonstrate growth in professional competence and effectiveness.
This life-long learning is twofold: spiritual formation and professional development.
Spiritual formation is the intentional pursuit of the nourishment and renewal of one’s relationship with Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit and the use of spiritual disciplines.
Professional development is the intentional growth of professional identity and the skills utilized in ministry that will enhance the effectiveness and excellence of the clergyperson.
Annual Clergy Continuing Education Grant
Annual Clergy Continuing Education Grant, up to $500/year
For seminary or Course of Study students who are currently under appointment or assignment in the Great Plains.
Save the date for the following continuing education opportunities for 2025. The Clergy Excellence team hopes that you will take advantage of one of these retreats!
A Time Apart, sermon and worship planning Retreat, $250 (with a $50 Early Bird Discount if you register by April 1 for July retreat or August 1 for November retreat), CEU’s available, depending on attendance at optional seminars.
July 14-18, Heartland Center for Spirituality, Great Bend, KS. More information here. Register here.
November 10-14, Marillac Retreat Center, Leavenworth, KS. More information here. Register here.
Hey Preacher, one-day workshop focused on rethinking preaching for greater impact, $15 (to include lunch and .4 CEU’s).
Saturday, September 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Hastings, NE (Laity-focused workshop) Register here
Monday, September 29, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Hastings, NE (Clergy-focused workshop) Register here
Saturday, November 1, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Salina, KS. (Laity-focused workshop) Register here
Monday, November 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Salina, KS (Clergy-focused workshop) Register here
This is a self-guided retreat that could be engaged either solo or with a small group. It is especially designed for those who may be in transition of appointment or ready for beginning new practices and habits, even if not moving to a new ministry setting.
$10, 1.0 CEU’s. Register here at least two weeks before you plan to retreat.
All retreats are $50 and include 3 days and 2 nights, including meals. 1.6 CEU’s. Various topics and Presenters.
April 24-26, Pastors will receive an email invitation and link to attend.
Four Tuesdays in the fall of 2025, clergy are able to meet over the "lunch hour" for a free online gathering with Social Worker Eva Gadberry to discuss 4 topics related to clergy mental health. Clergy can earn .1 CEU for each session attended.
