STUDY MINISTRY & EMBRACE YOUR CALLING
If you’re feeling called to ministry and looking for accessible, high-quality training, Christian Leaders Institute (CLI)offers a unique opportunity to pursue your calling without the financial barriers of traditional theological education. Whether you’re exploring ministry for the first time or seeking to expand your skills, CLI provides a range of courses and programs designed to equip you for effective service.
BENEFITS OF CLI
1. Flexible and Accessible Ministry Training
At CLI, you can access over 200 free courses covering topics such as biblical studies, theology, ministry leadership, and practical skills. The flexibility of CLI’s online platform allows you to study at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals balancing ministry training with work or family responsibilities.
2. Earn Ministry Credentials
For those pursuing formal recognition in ministry, CLI offers pathways to earn credentials such as licensed or ordained minister roles through the Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA). These credentials validate your training and open doors to opportunities such as officiating weddings, funerals, and other ministry roles.
Learn about Licensing & Ordination Opportunities
3. Specialized Ministry Programs
CLI provides specialized programs tailored to your ministry goals. For example, you can:
- Train as a wedding officiant to guide couples through one of life’s most joyous moments.
- Become a funeral officiant, offering comfort and spiritual guidance during times of loss.
- Pursue advanced programs like the Minister of the Word, designed to deepen your knowledge and expand your ministry impact.
4. Affordable Pathways to Degrees
If you’re seeking a formal academic degree, CLI offers low-cost bachelor’s degrees in Divinity, Christian Leadership, and more. These degrees provide a solid foundation for anyone looking to enter full-time ministry or enhance their current role in a church or community setting.
Discover CLI’s Degree Programs
5. Join a Global Network of Christian Leaders
As a CLI student, you become part of a global community of over 40,000 Christian leaders who are passionate about making a difference in their churches and communities. This network offers opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and encouragement as you pursue your calling.
WHY CHOOSE CLI?
- Accessible and Affordable: CLI’s free courses and low-cost degree options make ministry training available to everyone, regardless of financial status.
- Biblical and Practical: Programs are rooted in Scripture and designed to equip you for real-world ministry challenges.
- Flexible and Convenient: Study on your schedule and balance your training with work, family, or other commitments.
Aracelis Pérez’s TESTIMONY
Meet Aracelis Pérez, a
devoted wife, mother, teacher, and now a passionate student of ministry. Aracelis’s story is one of perseverance, faith, and a deep desire to follow God’s calling on her life. Originally from New Jersey, Aracelis spent eight formative years in Puerto Rico before settling in Pennsylvania with her husband and three children. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Literature, a Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning, and over 90 credits in educational courses, she has dedicated 20 years to teaching Spanish.
But despite her academic and professional achievements, Aracelis felt a deeper calling—a call to ministry.
Aracelis first felt the call to ministry over 20 years ago but didn’t pursue it at the time. Life’s responsibilities and her focus on family and career took precedence. However, about a year and a half ago, that calling returned, stronger than ever.
“When I received the calling of studying ministry, I immediately found Christian Leaders Institute (CLI), and I could not believe my eyes,” she shares. “God came through for me yet again. He put a calling in my heart and provided the means for it to happen.”
For Aracelis, CLI’s affordable, flexible training made it possible to pursue her ministry goals without incurring additional financial burdens—a concern she had after her earlier academic journey.
Aracelis’s faith journey began with her mother, who inspired her to follow God. At the age of 12, she took the significant step of baptism, professing her faith in the ocean waters of Puerto Rico alongside her mother.
As she grew older, her spiritual journey deepened. In 2010, after becoming a mother, she felt a renewed urgency to find a church home. This quest led her to various churches until she eventually settled in Pennsylvania, where she became actively involved in children’s ministry and small groups. However, she soon realized her calling extended beyond these roles.
Her true calling came into focus when she joined her church’s Spanish Translation Ministry, a program that streams live-translated sermons for Spanish-speaking members. This initiative reignited her passion for service and allowed her to minister to others in unique and meaningful ways.
Today, Aracelis is deeply involved in her church community. She leads worship in Spanish services, sings in the Sunday worship team, and participates in multiple connect groups. Through her experiences, she has come to see her church as a second family, a place where she can grow spiritually and pour into the lives of others.
As part of her ministry journey, Aracelis has felt a strong call to support people during life’s most significant moments. She aspires to serve as a wedding officiant, funeral officiant, and minister to those facing hardships. She wants to be there for others in moments of joy and sorrow, embodying God’s unconditional love in all she does.
Reflecting on her journey, Aracelis says, “This past year and a half is when God has become more real than ever. After many trials and tribulations, and God ALWAYS showing me His unconditional love, I am here today wanting to minister and help others.”
Her decision to pursue ministry training at CLI represents her bold step of faith. Studying ministry has given her the tools to follow her calling while maintaining her role as a teacher and mother. Through CLI, she has found the flexibility to study at her own pace and the knowledge to serve her community effectively.
Aracelis’s story is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the transformative power of answering His call. She encourages others to trust in God’s timing and pursue the path He has for them, no matter the obstacles.
“I want to be bold and pursue God’s calling in my life because He is good and His love endures forever, so why shouldn’t mine?”
If you feel called to serve in ministry like Aracelis, consider exploring Christian Leaders Institute. Their free, flexible ministry training can equip you to follow God’s call and make an impact in your community. Start studying ministry today and discover where God’s plan will take you.
HOW TO BECOME A REVEREND
Becoming a Reverend, often marked by the title “Rev.” before a person’s name, represents a significant milestone in Christian ministry. This designation is not merely honorary—it signifies that the individual has undergone rigorous academic preparation, spiritual growth, and ordination as a Minister of the Word. Historically, this process has been a hallmark of commitment to ministry excellence.
THE MEANING OF REVEREND
The title “Reverend” is rooted in deep respect for those who serve as ministers of the Word. Historically, it has been associated with individuals who have met the stringent requirements of ministry training and ordination. Before World War II, many denominations required ministers to earn a Bachelor of Divinity, ensuring they were theologically and practically prepared for their calling. While some denominations still maintain this standard, others have adopted alternative pathways that maintain academic and spiritual rigor.
One such pathway is offered by Christian Leaders Institute. This institution provides accessible, high-quality ministry education, including Bachelor’s Degrees in Divinity, designed to prepare individuals for ordination through the Christian Leaders Alliance. This route offers a robust combination of academic excellence, ministry training, and spiritual development, making it a prime option for aspiring Reverends today.
CLI'S COMMISSIONING COURSE
Christian Leaders Institute has created a clear, step-by-step process for those pursuing ordination as a Minister of the Word through the Christian Leaders Alliance. This program equips you to earn the title Reverend and take on the sacred role of leading in ministry.
Who Is This Program For?
Those called into ministry who want to dedicate their lives to ministry service.
This comprehensive program and commissioning course are tailored for individuals at various stages of their journey:
- Bachelor’s Degree Graduates: If you have completed a Bachelor’s Degree at Christian Leaders Institute, this program prepares you for ordination. (Any Bachelor with Christian Leaders Institute could fill this requirement)
- Current Students: Those pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree at Christian Leaders Institute can dual-enroll to work toward ordination.
- Christian Development School Students: If you’re studying for the Minister of the Word Award, you can also dual-enroll in this program.
- New Students: If you’re just beginning your journey with Christian Leaders Institute, this course serves as your roadmap to ordination.
- Master’s Degree Graduates: If you’ve completed a ministry Master’s Degree at another accredited institution, this program can guide you toward ordination with the Christian Leaders Alliance.
WHAT DOES THE PROGRAM INCLUDE?
The Minister of the Word Program and Commissioning Course is your minister of the word capstone course that you will remain enrolled in through out your entire study and credentialing journey at Christian Leaders Institute. You will be able to track the completion of your rigorous academic and spiritual preparation, ensuring you are fully equipped to serve as a Minister of the Word.
- Biblical Foundations: Grounded in Scripture, this program ensures you have a thorough understanding of the Word of God.
- Practical Ministry Training: Gain hands-on experience in preaching, pastoral care, and other vital ministry skills.
- Character Development: Develop the integrity and spiritual depth required to lead effectively.
The completion of this program culminates in ordination as a Minister of the Word, granting you the right to adopt the title “Reverend.”
STEPS TO BECOMING A REVEREND
- Enroll in the Minister of the Word Program and Commissioning Course.
Begin your journey by registering through Christian Leaders Institute. - Complete Course Requirements.
Fulfill all academic and skill-based modules as outlined in the program. Click here to see the program class. - Secure Level Three Endorsement
Obtain endorsements from leaders or mentors who affirm your readiness for ministry. - Update Your Profile.
Ensure your profiles at Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance reflect your progress. - Submit Your Story (Optional).
Share your personal testimony as part of the program. - Order Your Credentials as a Minister of the Word with the Christian Leaders Alliance.
Once you’ve met all requirements, order your official Minister of the Word credentials. - Participate in a Commissioning Service (Optional).
A commissioning service provides public affirmation of your ordination. - Register a Soul Center (Optional).
Consider starting a community-focused ministry initiative.
WHY CHOOSE CLI?
Christian Leaders Institute stands out for its dedication to accessible, high-quality theological education. The Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity is one of the flagship programs that prepare students for the Minister of the Word credential offered through the Christian Leaders Alliance. This pathway is ideal for those seeking to become Reverends without the financial barriers of traditional seminary education.
If you feel called to serve God as a Minister of the Word, enroll in the Minister of the Word Program and Commissioning Course is an excellent opportunity to achieve your goal. Begin your journey today and take the first steps toward becoming a Reverend.
HOW CLA & CLI PARTNER IN MINISTRY
The Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA) and the Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) work together to provide a pathway for individuals to become ordained Ministers of the Word. This partnership combines high-quality, accessible education with formal recognition and ordination.
Christian Leaders Institute: The Study Program
CLI provides the academic foundation for ordination through its comprehensive ministry training programs. These programs include:
- Biblical and Theological Studies: Courses that deepen understanding of Scripture and Christian doctrine.
- Practical Ministry Training: Modules that equip students with essential skills for preaching, counseling, and leadership.
- Flexible Learning: An online platform allows students to pursue their studies at their own pace, making rigorous training accessible to individuals worldwide.
Students can work toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity or complete ministry-specific awards that prepare them for ordination.
Christian Leaders Alliance: Ordination and Recognition
Once students complete their training at CLI, the CLA facilitates the ordination process. This involves:
- Reviewing Credentials: CLA ensures that candidates have met all academic and character requirements.
- Ordination as a Minister of the Word: Candidates are formally ordained and granted the title Reverend.
- Ongoing Support: Ordained ministers are part of a global network of Christian Leaders, receiving encouragement and resources for their ministry.
The CLA recognizes the rigor and depth of CLI’s study programs, ensuring that ordained Ministers of the Word are prepared for their high calling.
Becoming a Reverend is a journey that requires sacrifice and dedication. By pursuing rigorous study credentials through Christian Leaders Institute and completing the ordination process with Christian Leaders Alliance, potential ministers demonstrate their commitment to serving God and others with excellence.
This pathway provides an accessible yet rigorous route for those who feel called to ministry, enabling them to fulfill their calling while being part of a supportive global community of Christian leaders.
Answer the call—start your journey toward becoming a Reverend with CLI and CLA today
Learn more about how you can make a difference in your rural community at Christian Leaders Institute and ChristianLeaders Alliance. Together, we can ensure that every rural community has the spiritual leadership it needs to flourish.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Is the biblical study genuinely free? Learn how Vision Partners support this initiative.
- Is this a Bible School, a Bible College, a Ministry Training School, or an online Seminary? Find out how the Christian Leaders Institute shares all those designations with many people.
- Are these courses recognized for licensing or ordination? Through the Christian Leaders Alliance, learn how CLI courses connect with minister credentials.
- What about women in ministry?
CLI’s Primary Purpose: CLI offers a wide range of biblical study courses, including Free Bible School Courses, Ministry Training Certifications, college-level degrees, and even collaborations with accredited institutions.
Types of Biblical Study Courses:
- Online Bible School Courses: CLI is a haven for online biblical study, offering both comprehensive and mini-courses, from Old Testament studies to courses like Biblical Interpretation. Free Bible School Courses – Vision partners support Free Bible School courses and mini-courses.
- Ministry Training Institute Courses: These courses equip those called to ministry. Popular subjects include Ministry Foundations and Multiplying Disciples by Francis Chan. Take free life coach classes – Click here.. For more in-depth courses, Ministry Training Awards, Certificates, and Diplomas
- Minister Credential Courses: CLI provides tuition-free courses that are recognized for minister credentials at the Christian Leaders Alliance.