Resolution Number: 2015-A076
Title: Commend the Use of Certification for Christian Formation Leaders
Legislative Action Taken: Concurred
Final Text:

Resolved, That the 78th General Convention commend to all dioceses and congregations the use of Christian Formation Certifications as a way to encourage professional development for both paid and unpaid Christian Formation leaders and to deepen the Church’s commitment to the value and status of lay Christian Formation leaders; and be it further

Resolved, That the 78th General Convention commend the work of Forma in having developed through Faith Formation Academy the Certificate in Leadership for Lifelong Christian Formation and the Certificate for Youth and Family Ministry; the programs at Virginia Theological Seminary; the Seminary of the Southwest’s Certificate Program in Christian Formation; General Theological Seminary’s Certificate in the Spiritual Guidance of Children; and the programs of other recognized entities offering continuing education opportunities and certification for those called to the ministry of Christian Formation; and be it further

Resolved, That the Episcopal Church Center promote awareness of these certification programs.

Citation: General Convention, Journal of the General Convention of...The Episcopal Church, Salt Lake City, 2015 (New York: General Convention, 2015), p. 422.

Legislative History

Author: Standing Commission on Lifelong Christian Formation and Education
Originating House: House of Deputies
Originating Committee: Formation and Education for Ministry

House of Deputies

The House of Deputies Committee on Formation and Education for Ministry presented its Report #34 on Resolution A076 (Commend Use of Christian Formation Certifications) and moved adoption.

Original Text of Resolution:

(A076)

Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 78th General Convention commend to all dioceses and congregations the use of Christian Formation Certifications as a way to encourage professional development for both paid and unpaid Christian Formation leaders and to deepen the Church’s commitment to the value and status of lay Christian Formation leaders; and be it further

Resolved, That the 78th General Convention commend the work of Forma in having developed through Faith Formation Academy the Certificate in Leadership for Lifelong Christian Formation and the Certificate for Youth and Family Ministry; the programs at Virginia Theological Seminary; the Seminary of the Southwest’s Certificate Program in Christian Formation; General Theological Seminary’s Certificate in the Spiritual Guidance of Children; and the programs of other recognized entities offering continuing education opportunities and certification for those called to the ministry of Christian Formation; and be it further

Resolved, That the Episcopal Church Center promote awareness of these certification programs.

Motion carried

Resolution adopted

(Communicated to the House of Bishops in HD Message #212)

House of Bishops

The House of Bishops Committee on Formation and Education for Ministry presented its Report #52 on HD Message #212 on Resolution A076 (Commend Use of Christian Formation Certifications) and moved concurrence.

Motion carried

The House concurred

(Communicated to the House of Deputies in HB Message #350)

Resolution Concurred by Both Houses, July 3.

Report Reference:   Standing Commission on Lifelong Christian Formation and Education, Reports to the 78th General Convention, 2015, pp. 383-392.
Abstract:   The 78th General Convention encourages professional development for Christian Formation leaders through the use of Christian formation certification programs.