Women's Leadership Training
- New! Purchase classes now: You don't have to wait for the next conference or event. You can purchase Designing a Women's Ministries One and Two and enjoy at your own pace!
Why Leadership Training for Women?
In today’s rapidly changing culture, women have unique needs that require a varied and perceptive approach to ministry. No matter what their season of life they need opportunities to grow spiritually, emotionally and intellectually. Because of their strategic involvement in the home, workplace and community, women are able to contribute significantly in reaching our world for Christ. Women are key to God’s plan for evangelism and discipleship.
Equipping leaders to meet these varied and growing needs is key to reaching the individual woman in our churches and communities. Women currently serving in leadership positions within the church are acutely aware of their need for more training and for additional leaders to help in the ministry. A recent survey was taken among 61 New England women leaders, representing all New England states and 54 churches. When asked what their top need was in regards to serving in the local church, leadership training and leadership recruitment factored highest.
This training is for:
- Aspiring leaders: “I really want to do this. I feel called to this ministry.” These leaders are eager to serve and are looking for “the next step.”
- Affirmed leaders: “Do you really think I can do this? These leaders have been encouraged by others to follow the Lord in serving Him.
- Acknowledged leaders: “Been there...done that...now what” Experienced leaders are always looking for further opportunities to grow and connect.
Our philosophy of ministry
Mission Statement:
Our passion is to develop women in servant leadership for the equipping of God’s church and the enlarging of His Kingdom.
Vision Statement:
We envision women who are committed to serving the Lord:
- Continually connected to Him
- Confident in His call
- Compassionately reaching out to others
- Courageous in adversity
- Consistently bearing fruit
"Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with scoffers. But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; day and night they think about his law. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never wither, and in all they do, they prosper." Ps. 1:1-3
Core Values:
Acknowledging our prayerful dependence upon the Lord:
We value the Word of God as the foundation of all life and ministry. II Timothy 3:16-17
We value the local church. Acts 2:41-47
We value women as created in the image of God, redeemed by Jesus Christ and gifted by the Spirit of God. Genesis 1:27; Galatians 2:26-28; Acts 2:17-18
We value holy living expressed in purity, integrity and virtue.
2 Corinthians 7:1; Titus 2:11-14
We value learning through partnership and mentoring relationships. I Thessalonians 2:8
We value the diverse expressions of the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13; I Corinthians 12:4-8
We value the extension of God’s Kingdom in the church and into the community and wider world. Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:19-20
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I take these classes "for credit?"
Most women who enroll in these classes are interested in growing spiritually and personally. They want to apply what they learn in class to their lives and ministries. Completing each level of classes provides a well-rounded foundation for growth. The homework gives them concrete ways to apply what they have learned in their lives and ministry context.
What is the financial cost of participating in the program?
There are usually no additional costs involved to participate in the program. The only cost incurred by you is the fee to attend the conference/event where the class(es) are offered or to purchase one of the kits once they become available.
How do I know if I am enrolled in the program?
Enrollment in the program begins once we receive your first completed homework assignment.
How long does it take to do the homework for each class and where do I send it?
Homework for each class should take about an hour to complete. The exception would be some of our "designing" classes which may need more time. Completed homework and the homework cover sheet should be sent to the by design office. This may be done either by email or postal mail. Be sure to keep a copy of your homework for your files.
What happens once my homework is received at the by design Office?
A homework tracking record is kept on file. Upon receipt of your homework, we record that it has been received and place a copy of the cover sheet in our files. Your homework is then forwarded to the class instructor. If you have provided us with your email address, we will also notify you that your homework has been received.
How will I know if I passed?
Homework is graded as either complete or incomplete. The class instructor will notify you and us, usually within a month of receiving your homework, whether or not the assignment has been adequately completed.
What if I do not complete the assignment in a month, will it still be accepted?
Yes. Although we recommend completing the homework within one month of the class, we also understand this is not always possible.
What if while doing the homework, I have questions about the assignment. Who should I contact?
Questions can be directed to the by design office via email or phone. You may also contact the instructor, if she has provided you with her email address.
If I am pursuing a Level One certificate, can I also take Level Two classes?
Level One and Level Two classes can be taken simultaneously. However, some Level One classes do have a desired prerequisite, such as Unlocking the Scriptures, in which case the Level One class should be taken before the Level Two class. Also, Level One certification must precede Level Two certification.
Do I need to complete the classes by any specific time once I start?
There is no set time limit for completing the classes. Since the classes are held at various locations, events and times throughout the year, when you are able to finish will depend on your schedule. The availability of classes via "educational kits" will be beneficial in completing certification. As these kits become available, we will post it on our website.
What will the training program look like?
Certificate Program: 12 core courses in Level One and Level Two, taught by a variety of experienced women’s ministry leaders. Generally, a one-hour homework assignment is required for each class. Those completing all classes in each Level receive a Certificate in Women’s Ministries. Although classes can be taken simultaneously, Level One certification must precede Level Two certification.
Non-Certificate Program: Women may take individual classes as desired and may opt to not fulfill the homework requirement.
How often and where will classes be held?
Classes will be offered at various locations, events and times around New England. See the Women's Ministries Events Listings for the schedule and updates.
What materials will I need?
Each participant will receive a class outline and materials for each course. A notebook is available for a nominal fee. This includes additional ministry resources.
Will I be graded?
Classes will be acknowledged as complete or incomplete. We suggest you turn in your homework assignment within one month of taking the class, however, assignments will be accepted after a month' s time.
Can I waive one of the Core Classes?
If you have taken recognized college courses in theology, Bible study methods, counseling, leadership development or women’s ministry training or a demonstrable equivalent, you may request a waiver from the by design Director. This waiver is from the classroom portion but you must still complete and submit the assignment from the course.
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