Leadership Development:

The Institute of Congregational Development

Creating a Culture of Permanent Growth

  • Do you have a deep passion for people in your community who do not already have a relationship Jesus or the church?
  • Do you feel the calling to plant a new church or start a new ministry or worship experience?
  • Do you feel the calling to revitalize ministry in your congregation?
  • Do you hunger for leadership development opportunities that result in more effectively making disciples for the transformation of the world?
  • Do you thrive when surrounded by people who are sharing new ideas, new possibilities, and new tools for improving ministry?
  • Do you long for meaningful connections with other Christian leaders who nurture, support, challenge, and embrace each other?

The Institute of Congregational Development is a comprehensive, ten months leadership development opportunity for those leaders ready to take their ministry to the next level. This intensive training includes 10 on-site sessions, monthly reading assignments, monthly L3 Incubator (covenant) group meetings, two field trips, and the opportunity to learn, share, and celebrate alongside a dynamic group of clergy and laity from around the state. There will be specific training for people starting new ministry and for people working to revitalize established congregations.

Over the course of the year, participants learn from prominent pastors, authors, coaches, and consultants from across the nation. However, the Institute of Congregational Development has been designed taking into account the particular realities and diverse dynamics of the Wisconsin Conference as well. ICD participants are pushed to contextualize what they learn each month and apply the information to their own unique settings through ongoing dialogue and written assignments. 

Participant Expectations

The Institute of Congregational Development is not meant to be an easy process; in fact, this opportunity was created to challenge Conference leaders to step outside their comfort zones and take their ministry to the next level. Most ICD graduates would agree that, although challenging, the outcomes are well worth the investment of time, energy, and resources. Participants are expected to fully engage in the process intellectually, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. Specifically, to graduate and receive a certificate of completion, participants will be expected to:

  • Attend all of the on-site sessions (including field trips).
  • Complete all required reading assignments.
  • Actively participate in all L3 Incubator group meetings.

2023 ICD Information

For more information, or if you are interested in applying for the next class of the ICD, please contact:

Rev. Scott Carlson
Director of Congregational Development Office (608-837-7328)