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Be a More Effective Church Leader

Training you need to make a difference for Jesus!

The Presbyterian Church–like all churches in North America today– is undergoing massive changes. Tried and true methods of church growth and effective mission are less and less effective in the new cultures all around us. Still the church is blessed with many dedicated leaders who want to help to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ and strengthen the mission of their cherished worshiping communities or to help start new ones. To assist you in this mission, the Presbytery of Coastal Carolina will re-launch its Elder Training Program in October, 2014.

The program is designed for those considering service as Commissioned Ruling Elders (CREs)–the new name for Commissioned Lay Pastors– but it will also benefit any elder (or other interested lay person) in the Presbytery.

The course of study will fulfill the Book of Order’s requirements for CRE preparation and will add training in applying the classroom learning to practical aspects of ministry – whether in one’s own congregation or as a CRE in a nearby congregation.

A course of study tailored for today  

All you will need to equip you for more effective service.   Core Curriculum   The core curriculum is made up of the eight courses required for candidates for CRE service in addition to a supervised internship. Additional learning opportunities will be added to help students integrate their learning to the practice of ministry.

  • Introduction to the Old Testament (Dec 2014)
  • Introduction to the New Testament (Jan-Mar 2015)
  • Reformed Theology
  • History of Christian Thought
  • Preaching
  • Worship and Sacraments
  • Pastoral Care
  • Presbyterian Polity
  • Pastoral Internship
  • Others to be Developed

2014 Schedule for the Introduction to the Old Testament  – Saturdays

  • October 25 (10AM to 3PM)
  • November 8(10AM to 3PM)
  • November 22 (10AM to 3PM)
  • December 6 (10AM to 3PM)
  • December 20 (10AM to 3PM)

2015 Introduction to New Testament will begin in January – Saturdays

  • January 10  (10AM to 3PM)
  • January 24 (10AM to 3PM)
  • February 7 (10AM to 3PM)
  • February 21 (10AM to 3PM)
  • March 7 (10AM to 3PM)

Application Process

To enroll in the QRE/CRE program offered by the Presbytery of Coastal Carolina at the Elizabethtown office, please complete this application form (long form).    If you wish to be a candidate for certification as a Qualified Ruling Elder ( ready to be commissioned as a Commissioned Ruling Elder in a congregation) you will also need a letter of endorsement from your session (details are in the application form).

If you are not an elder or do not wish to seek certification as a QRE/CRE at this time please complete this shorter application.
Training Application (Short Form)

We need to ensure a minimum number of students to begin the program so please alert us of you interest even if your application is still in process.

Please return the application to

Presbytery Office,
807 W King St.,
Elizabethtown, NC 28337
or call 910-862-8300 for more information.

Another option for training is offered through Charleston Atlantic Presbytery at Presbyterian College Clinton, SC.  The SC Lay School of Theology offers each course in an intense long weekend retreat with advanced reading and a paper due after the course. (Their fee structure is different.)
Details can be found at:
http://capresbytery.org/presbyterian-lay-school/