Join us for a campus visit!2018-2019 Ventures Courses
Fall: “Conflict Transformation”
Speaker: Debbie Roberts
9 a.m.-Noon CDT
Register online
This course will briefly explore the theory and practice of conflict engagement. Using the expertise of Mennonite, Quaker and Methodists scholars, John Paul Lederach, Parker Palmer, and Tom Porter, we will explore various models of engagement, the importance of spiritual preparation when we are asked to help facilitate conversations between others who are in conflict, and some tools that can assist us in listening and responding in helpful and healing ways.
* CEU: .3 credit, $10
Speaker: Tim Grove
9 a.m.-Noon CDT
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Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) – Part 1 The science of the past 30 years is painting a clear picture – when kids are exposed to overwhelming, unsupported adversity (abuse, neglect, domestic violence, etc.) there is profound effect for them and for all of us. This class will introduce the ACE findings, briefly discuss the neurobiology of stress and propose simple solutions that promote hope and healing. There will also be time at the end of the presentation for a dialogue regarding the implications for Ventures participants.
* CEU: .3 credit, $10
Speakers: Tim Grove
9 a.m.-Noon CDT
Register online
We will briefly review and highlight the ACEs findings and dig deeper into the core concepts of TIC. We will focus specifically on the core concepts of regulation, relationship & reason to be as critical components of a connected & healthy world. We will also discuss how response to overwhelming adversity & trauma tends to create dysregulation, relational skepticism & pursuit of purpose that is often superficial and absent of meaning. The strategies discussed that create regulation, relationship and reason to be are also relevant for managing conflict and other relevant challenges of modern life. (Part 1 not required to take Part 2)
* CEU: .3 credit, $10
Spring: “Welcoming Congregations“
Speaker: Barbara Avent
9 a.m.-Noon CST
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As the world becomes more diverse, church leaders and lay people will need an understanding of what is inclusivity/multiculturalism. Instruction includes a non-threatening approach to invite and help bring more people, especially People of Color, into the churches or agencies of the Church of the Brethren. Learning new information can help change the trajectory of people, whereby they see with new lenses of compassion and inclusivity. Plus participants can learn tips about how current church members can be more welcoming and inclusive.
* CEU: .3 credit, $10
Speaker: Kathy Reid
9 a.m.-Noon CDT
Register online
Almost all congregations aspire to welcome the stranger into our midst. Our tradition, sacred texts, doctrines, teachings and cultural values can be a resource to visitors, members, and the community. But sometimes those very things we love become a roadblock to others. This course will look specifically at how congregations can be a safe place for those who are vulnerable. Based on our Brethren values, what can we do to make sure that all, but especially survivors of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault, feel safe and supported? This course will look at how we can create congregations where everyone’s physical, emotional, or mental safety are important values and embedded in our congregational structures. We will pay special attention to welcoming and supporting victims, survivors and the vulnerable.
* CEU: .3 credit, $10
*Some Ventures courses offer Continuing Education Units (CEU) credit. CEUs for sessions are approved and granted by the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, a ministry training partnership of Bethany Theological Seminary and the Church of the Brethren.
Previous Courses
About the Courses
Equipping lay people of all ages and education levels with skills and understandings for faithful and dynamic Christian living, action, and leadership with special emphasis on small congregations.
Registering online is the preferred method. All course times are Central Time. There is no charge for courses; however, a suggested donation is invited.
Ventures courses, while not for college credit, offer high-quality instruction. The goal of the program is to empower lay people, especially in smaller congregations, to more effectively carry out the work of discipleship, following in Jesus’ footsteps to transform ourselves and the world. You are invited to journey with others on this new pathway sponsored by McPherson College.
Technology Requirements for Live Courses: If you can surf the web, you will be able to participate in our online courses! For the best experience, we recommend that you have a computer with high-speed internet connection and external powered speakers. We encourage several people to share a computer to participate in a course together! No camera or microphone needed for most courses.