Disciples Ministries Unite to Launch Leadership Development Initiatives for Young Adults and Emerging Clergy
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Higher Education & Leadership Ministries (HELM), Disciples Overseas Ministries/Global Ministries (DOM/GM), and Week of Compassion (WOC) have entered into a groundbreaking partnership to deepen their collaboration in leadership development programs for young adults and emerging clergy. This partnership aims to enhance global awareness, nurture theological reflection, and cultivate leaders with a profound understanding of global ministry.
The partnership focuses on two core initiatives: the Undergraduate Leadership Fellows Program (LFP) Global Awareness Cohort and the Theological Fellows Leadership Program (TFLP), each designed to address the pressing need for leaders who are globally conscious and equipped to engage in transformational ministry.
Key Objectives:
- Multi-Ministry Leadership Development: Programs will be framed within a post-colonial, anti-racist perspective, fostering global engagement and awareness.
- Leveraging Subject Matter Experts: Global Relations Ministers and Week of Compassion personnel will serve as essential resources for these programs.
- Immersive Experiences: Co-designed trips and experiential learning opportunities will allow participants to gain firsthand insights into global communities.
- Formation of Theological Fellows: A cohort model for emerging clergy will be developed to integrate theological learning with global perspectives.
Undergraduate Global Awareness Cohort
As part of HELM’s Leadership Fellows Program, third-year students will participate in a Global Awareness Trip, immersing themselves in diverse cultures and exploring global interconnectedness. HELM will handle cohort registrations and facilitate collaboration with DOM/GM and WOC to plan these transformative experiences.
Theological Fellows Leadership Program (TFLP)
The TFLP will annually select 10-12 theological fellows to engage in quarterly learning sessions and a global immersion trip. This program, rooted in theology and designed collaboratively, will foster a global perspective and equip clergy to serve with a deep commitment to social justice and global ministry.
“This partnership represents a vital step forward in preparing the next generation of leaders for ministry in a globally interconnected world,” said Rev. Dr. Tamara Nichols Rodenberg, President of HELM. “By working together, we can ensure that our young adults and emerging clergy are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and faith foundation needed to lead with compassion and engage meaningfully with diverse communities.”
Timeline and Next Steps
The programs will officially launch in Spring 2025 with applications for the first TFLP cohort opening in January. Quarterly sessions for the inaugural cohort will begin in Fall 2025, with the first global immersion trip scheduled for Summer 2026.
This collaboration exemplifies the shared commitment of HELM, DOM/GM, and WOC to equip leaders who are ready to respond to the complex challenges of ministry with wisdom, compassion, and a global vision.
For More Information on the Ministries:
Disciples Overseas Ministries/Global Ministries
Higher Education & Leadership Ministries
Week of Compassion
