Many pastors in eastern Congo have very little to no training in theology or pastoral leadership. Without formal theological education, pastors are left to fend on their own as spiritual leaders of their congregations, ill-equipped to address the myriad challenges arising from the Congolese lived experience. The threats of poverty, trauma, and ongoing political instability create fear and anxiety for many. Furthermore, confused and unsatisfied lay persons eventually turn to some of the animistic beliefs of the culture for answers to their pain and problems.
Church leaders need further equipping as leaders, reliable theological teachers, advocates for healing and reconciliation, and champions of community development principles. They need to be given the opportunity to cultivate character and leadership qualities that will help them minister effectively in and to their communities.
Through our Center for Church Renewal and Global Mission, we facilitate the following activities in order to equip pastors with the resources needed to lead their congregations that are experiencing such difficult realities:
- leadership workshops
- theological training courses
- pastoral skills training (e.g. preaching, counseling)
- marriage enrichment seminars
- holistic community development
Congo Initiative serves pastors of all denominations, embodying the reconciliation that is needed today between faith communities.
