Preparing for Ministry

[Dawn Sneden]

Reader Question: I have long felt drawn to ministry, but have never made a more positive step other than prayer, and leading a small housegroup. Now, I am married with two toddlers, but more and more, I feel that God is calling me to respond. How might I begin to prepare myself for ministry given that I am full-time mother? Is there a good online course in theological studies I might use?

Let me first encourage you by stating that you are already doing "ministry"! Being a mom and raising your children to love God is definitely considered a ministry in our book, and having the courage to lead your own housegroup is a ministry as well.

To answer your question on how to prepare yourself for ministry during this "mommy stage", the best advice I can give is to find time in your day, several days a week, to read books on the subjects which most interest you concerning the type of ministry to which you are drawn. As you read the books, make notes and journal your thoughts on how you could implement some of the ideas in a ministry. Search out workshops or conferences in your area that you can attend.

There are several colleges which do offer online course studies, but I'm sure there would be a financial investment required as well. As God leads you to better understand where He wants you to serve, it will be easier to seek out the resources and contacts you need to feel prepared.

Mentors of Ministry hopes to provide access to resources through our website sometime in the next 6-12 months. Check back with us and hopefully we can help you soon in that way as well.

Lastly, don't let any person (or the devil) tell you that your dreams are too big, or that you aren't "educated" enough for ministry. God is the ultimate equipper and He will gently lead you as you are obedient to His direction. In the meantime, we pray for your continued strength as you raise Godly, healthy children!