ACTS
The Brethren Academy offers a variety of certificate and continuing education programs. Certificate programs are intended for lay people who want to learn more about the faith and calling of Christian community; licensed ministers who are part of the certificate training program to fulfill minimal educational requirements for ordination; and ministers seeking continuing education.
Click here to view, save, or print an abbreviated version of ACTS requirements.
Click here to view, save, or print an ACTS Application.
Click here to view, save or print the current ACTS Handbook (for students and instructors).
SVMC offers ACTS courses concurrently in the five partnering districts. Students may cross register for the courses. Districts may provide some financial assistance according to district policy.
ACTS Instructors are qualified ministers and scholars, chosen by the Executive Director of SVMC in consultation with the partnering district executives.
The ACTS certificate program is a carefully designed program of 13 courses plus a series of ministry formation experiences that are repeated approximately every four years.
Click here to see the current COURSE CYCLE.
Training experiences:
- Ministry Formation
- Supervised Ministry
- Annual Conference
- District Conference
- An ecumenical, interfaith, or intercultural experience
Students are encouraged to take all 13 academic courses, but a minimum of 12 are required to complete the program:
- 3 Biblical (Intro to Old Testament, Intro to New Testament, Interpreting the Bible)
- 3 Historical/Theological (History of the Church, Brethren Life & Thought, Intro to Theology)
- 6 Ministry Skills (Church Leadership & Administration and 5 of the following: Intro to Pastoral Care, Teaching & Learning in the Church, Preaching, Worship, Evangelism & Church Growth, Communication Skills for Pastoral Ministry, 1 approved elective).
The plan of courses to be offered in the next three years can be found in the student handbook (link is above).
SVMC Courses - 2024-25
To register, contact SVMC at 717-361-1450 or email KarenHodges@SVMCcob.org. Cost per ACTS course is $270 or $90 to audit. Pastors who audit courses (attending each session) may receive 1.5 CEU's for an additional $10 documentation fee.