Pastoral Leadership Development Program

SOC ESSENTIALS

Called to Preach? Follow the PLD Pathway to Ordination.

PLD Students

A Convenient Economical Pathway to Ordination

The Southern Conference Pastoral Development program (PLD) was created for United Church of Christ members who have received a mid-life call to ministry. Now ordination as a full-fledged UCC minister is possible without disrupting work or family responsibilities.

Practical, professional courses are offered during weekends and one-week summer stays at Lancaster Theological Seminary. That means all course work can be completed in as few a three or as many as seven years--all without disrupting the tempo of your life.

Financially Feasible;
Aid is Available

The PLD Pathway to ordination can be completed at a fraction of the cost charged by traditional colleges and seminaries. Cost often can be subsidized by the student's home church or a participating company.

Applicants will have plenty of time to explore funding possibilities before formal enrolling in the PLD Program.

Practical Courses;
Real World Preparation

The PLD pathway covers nine practical studies, polity and management offered over three years. Each course is five weekends long and includes 40 contact hours. Students also spend one week each summer on a seminary campus where they continue their education under noted professors.

Once You Begin,
You're Never Alone

In addition to experienced pastors, teachers and fellow students, you'll be guided along you PLD Pathway by a UCC ordained mentor. he or she will be there when you need to discuss academics, vocational goals or personal aspirations.

PLD Students

Basic Qualification;
Maximum Benefits

If you're at least 35 years old with a high school education or GED, you qualify for PLD enrollment. Compare that to the standard four-year college and three-year seminary requirements! UCC membership and a recommendation from your home church, plus In Care status through your Association, complete the requirements.

Your Pathway Begins
With One Small Step

If this brief overview meets your expectations, we invite you to review the most Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)(MS Word) about our program and learn about the Spirit-led students already on the PLD Pathway.

For more information:

Margot

Pastoral Leadership Development
Rev. Margot Pickett, Director
3615 Cottonwood Drive
Durham, NC 27707
(919) 493-2722 (Office)
(919) 414-6053 (Mobile)
(919) 403-7068 (FAX)
PLDdirector@verizon.net