Early Ministry Institute
Early Ministry Institute is a three-year learning conference with care and support for pastors, chaplains, and CRE’s available to those in their first five years of ministry.
Purpose
The Early Ministry Institute (EMI) embodies the Synod’s commitment to equipping and sustaining the next generation of leaders. Designed for early-career pastors, Commissioned Ruling Elders (CREs), and Chaplains, EMI responds to the unique opportunities and challenges of the first years of ministry with a holistic approach that blends professional development, spiritual formation, and community support. As the Synod enters this new vision, EMI will continue as a staple of leadership development.
Program Structure and Focus
At its core, EMI is more than a training program—it is a covenant of accompaniment. Through workshops, seminars, and interactive learning experiences, new leaders gain both the practical skills and adaptive capacities required for faithful ministry in today’s complex contexts. Topics span pastoral care, theological reflection, church administration, leadership development, and innovative practices for navigating change. Each learning space balances the practical with the reflective, ensuring participants are prepared not only for the day-to-day work of ministry but also for its long-term demands.
Equally central is the emphasis on spiritual grounding. EMI intentionally weaves prayer, worship, and spiritual practices into every gathering, reminding leaders that ministry is sustained not by skill alone but by a deep and abiding connection to God’s presence. This rhythm of nurture and reflection strengthens participants’ sense of call and equips them to serve with resilience, humility, and hope.
The impact of EMI reaches well beyond its participants. As new ministers grow in wisdom, resilience, and spiritual depth, the congregations and communities they serve are strengthened in turn. This ripple effect extends vitality and sustainability throughout the Synod, ensuring that God’s mission flourishes for generations to come.
Funding for EMI combines substantial Synod support with investment from presbyteries, participants and the Wurffel-Sills Endowment.
EMI is resourced by the Mid Council Resident for Programs, Leadership Development and Administration and the Synod Leader. The seven-member planning team provides support to the cohorts, leadership, and guest facilitators. The program undergoes annual evaluation.
