Skills for Flourishing Congregations
While formal theological degree programs provide an excellent foundation, the fast-paced world of ministry makes it necessary for clergy and laypeople to continually evolve their skills to keep churches healthy and flourishing. Partnering with expert instructors, CTS has created these skills-based opportunities for continuing education that help leaders stay nimble and up to date in a rapidly changing ministry environment.
Practical skills for faith communities
Webinars led by subject matter experts
2025-2026 Series
This year’s webinar series “Prayer in an Age of Authoritarianism” will be hosted online on Wednesdays from 12-1pm Eastern. Participants will learn practical tools designed to empower and strengthen our faith communities. Each webinar is led by a subject matter expert who offers valuable perspectives and resources for navigating the challenges of our times and fostering resilience, connection, and growth within congregations. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in webinars that aim to equip us all for meaningful engagement and flourishing in today’s complex world.
In the context of a cultural climate shaped by politics, policies, and influence, Christianity faces pressing questions tied to the intersection of faith, civics, and social values. These free webinars by subject matter experts provide space for world-changing discussions and practical community learning through a theological lens.
Praying Well: The Push Against the Globalization of Indifference
October 22 – 12-1pm Eastern
Daisy L. Machado, PhD
The late Pope Francis has warned the Christian community about what he called “the globalization of indifference” when we become “accustomed to the suffering of others.” This is hard to hear and even harder to believe yet we know that the daily bombardment of bad news and depressing headlines often overwhelm and make us think there is not much we can do to make a difference. So, what are some ways that we can promote a new way of looking at the work of justice in times such as these we are facing in 2025? What are some practices we can begin to engage to help sustain us and make us feel less alone? In our time together we will talk about possible ways to push back on this “globalization of indifference.”
Only Prayer Can Save Us! How To Stay Alive and Sustain Our People During These Times
January 28 – 12-1pm Eastern
Cláudio Carvalhaes, PhD
We are all weary of our times. Many of us are afraid, as we see our worlds collapsing just in front of our eyes. What can we do? Prayer has always been a tremendous resource for Christians to go through everything in life. To think about prayer can be a way through and perhaps even a way out. Come join us in this conversation!
For What or Whom Else Shall We Pray?
April 8 – 12-1pm Eastern
Amy Lindeman Allen, PhD
Many congregations blend formal liturgical prayers (those spoken by a leader) with space for the assembly to offer additional petitions, whether silently or out loud. Current events and more specific petitions for justice and reconciliation often occur with more frequency in these ad hoc prayers. In this session, we will explore how ministry leaders, especially in politically divided congregations, can make space for such petitions; the place and role of moving concern for current events into more formalized prayers; and the potentials of liturgical prayer for creating spaces for resistance, renewal, community collaboration, and emotional healing.
Registration
Each webinar is free, but registration is required.
Contact skillsforcongregations@cts.edu for more information.
About the Courses
The Skills for Flourishing Congregations series provides congregation leaders with a chance to gain relevant, practical knowledge in key areas of congregational leadership.
Online webinars
(3 topical offerings)
Top instructors
and in-depth content
Hosted by CTS faculty
to facilitate conversation
The webinars examine topics from the theme "Navigating a Disorienting Age: Tools for Faith Communities" including:
- What is the importance of hospitality and inclusivity within congregations?
- How can congregations become inclusive communities for their diverse members and neighbors?
- What does it look like to affirm and celebrate the richness of human diversity within our congregations?
- How can congregations challenge negative cultural assumptions about elders and gain a deeper understanding of the process of aging?
- What invaluable wisdom do we gain by intentionally involving elders in our congregations in community life?
