Introduction
Greetings! I’m Charlene S. Bowden, living in Metropolitan Atlanta, GA, USA. I’m the mother of three daughters and grandmother of five plus two fur babies. Further, I am a student at the Christian Leaders Institute, where I plan to become an ordained minister.
I often struggle with sharing my ministry story because I went to church all my life. I grew up in a family church with both sets of my grandparents and my parents. Then I raised my children and my grandchildren in this church. My sister and her children attend this church as well. In some ways, it’s great to have so many family members in the same church. However, as I’ve grown in my walk with God and realized the difference between being active in church versus ministering, attending church with family can create more challenges than blessings. In short, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives, and in his own home.” Mark 6:4 NIV.
My Journey Starts
It became clear in 1992 when my children’s father and I divorced. I knew to run to the church for healing. However, I didn’t anticipate all of the personal inquiries about what happened in our marriage. No one offered to minister to me one-on-one to help me through this challenging time. As a result, I left my home church to find a church where I could be ministered to without judgment and ridicule. This was when my eyes were opened to see God’s grace and lovingkindness towards me and His acceptance of me as a divorced woman.
Growing In Knowledge
I visited churches with many different ministry styles. These churches were instrumental in shaping my view and understanding of the role of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. One church in particular totally transformed me and my walk with God. From day one, every service was a gift to me from God. It was as though the bishop listened in on my daily prayers, and God gave him the answers and revelation to give me on Sunday mornings. If I picked a time when I entered into a true relationship with God, it was at this church in 1997.
Oceans Deep
I enjoy traveling. There’s nothing like an impromptu weekend road trip to anywhere within a 300-mile radius. However, God has also allowed me to travel to many parts of the world. 2016 I went on my first international mission trip to Manila, Philippines. It was also the first time I preached outside of the USA. I’m not a preacher, but I have learned to be ready both in season and out of season. Upon returning home, I was determined to stay connected with the church I visited in Manila. Therefore, I supported their children’s program, including organizing a Pen Pal ministry between the children in Manila and the children in my community.
In 2019, I traveled to Ghana, West Africa, as part of a ministry team. I’m still active with ministry leaders there. In addition, my nonprofit partnered with a nonprofit in Accra, Ghana, to produce radio and television shows. The shows expand their organization’s work in raising awareness of the lives of children living in street situations. The name of my production company is “It’s Just Us Productions.”
In 2020, I became the first woman appointed Lead Director of Church Twinning International-USA (CTI). In 2023, I became the Co-Founder and International Director of Church Twinning International-Liberia. CTI connects churches worldwide to partner and share information and resources to help develop ministries and communities.
My Spiritual Dream: Plan to Become an Ordained Minister
I am a spiritual advisor with Dee Stokes Ministries, specializing in guiding individuals through mental and emotional healing and overcoming generational hurts. I am also an alum of the Seeds Project, an apostolic training network for ministry entrepreneurs who creatively build community and share the Gospel in our world. Luther Seminary offers this project.
In 2021, I felt the calling and need to be ordained. I have been leading and organizing ministries since 2020. However, I’m entering into a time in my ministry that will require me to have credentials. Thank God for the Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) where I incorporate the plan to become an ordained minister! I wanted to study at my own pace without being restricted by the prerequisites of traditional seminaries. In addition, I like that I can complete coursework in several programs without waiting for semester changes. CLI has been an answer to my prayer and my heart’s desire. CLI, please continue to provide education and training that meets people right where they are on their Christian journey!
Register a Study Account
Register for a free study account, automatically enrolling you in the Getting Started Class at the Christian Leaders Learning Platform. The Getting Started class will take you less than an hour to complete.
When you log in to the Learning Platform, you will notice that the Getting Started Class automatically appears on your dashboard.
The Getting Started Class will orientate you to the Christian Leaders Learning Platform and the Programs offered, including:
- Ministry Awards, Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees with the Christian Leaders Institute.
- Minister Credentialling (Ordination) with the Christian Leaders Alliance, including local Soul Center registration possibilities.
Note: You can enroll in tuition-free courses or mini-courses immediately without finishing the getting started class.
Find out more about women in ministry here.
My name is Adrian Wilson. I am 43 years old and married to Amanda, my wife of 22 years. We have four children and live in Oklahoma. We moved here about a year and a half ago from Colorado. I am getting an education in ministry and the Bible at the Christian Leaders Institute.
My Story
As a child, I was Lutheran. However, I spent my formative years in the Catholic Church. My mother was my Sunday school teacher and religious guide for a long time. Later in life, I received adult baptism into the Christian faith and know God saved me. I know Jesus and the Father have forgiven me. Sometimes, it’s hard to forgive myself. I’m not proud of everything I have done in my past, but I look forward to the future.
For 23 years, I attended and served in the Christian church. I’ve attended several churches over the years and finally found a good home church. It was a church plant that came out to Colorado. The minister and I became fast friends. My wife and I started at a tiny church in the back of a carpet shop. We watched it grow to over five campuses; thousands call it their home church.
After that, we moved to the small plant church. The Lord is moving through this church. However, it is not without its trials. Getting transferred from one school to another and getting trailers stolen has been rough for my pastor and the church family. Two of our sons and our daughter received baptism there.
Called and Getting an Education in Ministry and Bible
As I’m getting older (or, as I like to say, “wiser”), I have felt a calling to serve the Lord more and more. I have such a thirst for knowledge about our heavenly Father. Finally, I decided to take a further step and get an education in my passion. That’s when I found the Christian Leaders Institute for my education in ministry and Bible knowledge.
A little about my background: I was an apprentice mason under my father, who was an apprentice under his father. From my understanding masonry dates back many generations in my family tree. I’m blessed to be able to build things with my hands. I’ve heard lately that Jesus himself may have done masonry. I find it exciting to know I may be in the same trade as Jesus.
I’m ready to start a new life, following Jesus and learning more about the Bible. I want to be able to answer questions when they arise and to take ministry into scary places like jails and prisons. Therefore, I see myself as a chaplain for the jail and prison inmates who may need some reminding that Jesus still loves them. More importantly, I want to be a man who leads his family in the right direction to follow Jesus.
Register a Study Account
Register for a free study account, automatically enrolling you in the Getting Started Class at the Christian Leaders Learning Platform. The Getting Started class will take you less than an hour to complete.
When you log in to the Learning Platform, you will notice that the Getting Started Class automatically appears on your dashboard.
The Getting Started Class will orientate you to the Christian Leaders Learning Platform and the Programs offered, including:
- Ministry Awards, Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees with the Christian Leaders Institute.
- Minister Credentialling (Ordination) with the Christian Leaders Alliance, including local Soul Center registration possibilities.
Note: You can enroll in tuition-free courses or mini-courses immediately without finishing the getting started class.
Find out more about women in ministry here.
FREE OFFICIANT TRAINING
At the Christian Leaders Institute, we recognize the pivotal role of the officiant in Christianity, a key figure in clergy who dedicates their leadership to infuse God’s presence into critical life events, from celebrations to transitions of great importance. The officiant’s duty is multifaceted, encompassing the teaching of God’s intentions, overseeing vow exchanges, conducting ceremonies, and delivering blessings. While they may serve in capacities akin to Christian ministers, their core focus remains on their officiating responsibilities, distinguishing them from the broader ministerial roles.
AN OFFICIANT'S BIBLICAL IMPORTANCE
The significance of the officiant role traces back to biblical times, beginning with the ceremonial acts of Melchizedek, the King of Salem and a priest of the Most High God, who blessed Abraham. This foundational event marks the role of officiants in spiritual leadership, drawing a parallel with the duties of Old Testament priests who led community ceremonies and ministered at the altar, a tradition that today’s officiants perpetuate within the Christian clergy.
In contemporary practice, officiants uphold the ancient traditions by overseeing ceremonies and providing spiritual guidance, ensuring the continuity of this critical role in connecting modern ministry with biblical practices.
CLI'S OFFICIANT PROGRAM
The Christian Leaders Institute has crafted an officiant program that caters to those called to this sacred duty, offering specialized training in various areas such as Wedding Officiant and Romance Officiant. This program is designed to equip individuals with comprehensive ministry training, backed by local recommendations and recognition by the Christian Leaders Alliance.
We encourage local congregations to adopt such officiant programs, which allow volunteers to minister on specific topics and occasions without the broader expectations associated with being a Christian minister. Officiants stand out for their vital role in the community, bridging individuals with God’s teachings and intentions during significant life events like weddings, funerals, and other ceremonies, all without the requirement for extensive counseling or coaching skills.
Through our Free Officiant Training program, the Christian Leaders Institute aims to support and expand the availability of trained officiants, ensuring that the rich, biblical heritage of this role continues to serve the contemporary needs of God’s community. Join us in embracing this calling, and become a beacon of God’s presence in life’s most pivotal moments.
WHY CHOOSE THIS PROGRAM?
On the Christian Leaders Institute. website, we provide a clear pathway for those called to serve as officiants in their communities through our Free Officiant Training program. Here’s how you can follow this path towards ordination with the Christian Leaders Alliance:
Step One: Understand Your Calling
First, determine your specific calling within the officiant ministry. Whether you’re drawn to officiating weddings, engaging in romance ministry, or serving in other ministerial capacities, recognizing your interest is the initial step.
Step Two: Start Your Training
Begin your journey with our Free Ministry Training. The foundational course for all aspiring officiants is the Wedding Officiant Skills course, which requires less than 10 hours to complete and is free of charge. This course lays the groundwork for your officiant training.
Step Three: Move Towards Recognition
After completing the foundational course, proceed to the Licensed Christian Wedding Officiant Recognition Course. You’ll need to complete your minister profile and obtain one recommendation. Following verification, you’ll officially join the clergy of the Christian Leaders Alliance and appear in our Minister Directory
Step Four: Complete Your Training or Celebrate Your New Role
Upon finishing your initial training, you can choose to further your education in other officiant roles or celebrate your accomplishment. Successfully completing this stage earns you Licensed Wedding Officiant Status with the Christian Leaders Alliance, and you can acquire the Clergy Recogntion Kit. This kit includes a Licensed Wedding Officiant Certificate, a Letter of Good Standing, and a clergy ID card.
Step Five: Expand Your Recognition
To gain recognition in additional officiant roles, enroll in the required training programs. There’s no need for another recommendation if you’ve already submitted one for your wedding officiant status.
This streamlined process is designed to support you from discerning your calling through achieving ordained status, enabling you to serve your community effectively as an officiant.
The Christian Leaders Alliance offers the first clergy status program for Christians who feel called to serve as officiants in their communities.
Check out More Officiant Skills Courses