Programs: Early Years of Ministry

The Lewis Center for Church Leadership is spearheading the work of the Transition into Ministry Task Force of the "Making Connections Initiative," a cooperative venture of Wesley Theological Seminary and nearby United Methodist Conferences.

"Making Connections" is a five-year strategy to define and implement effective ministerial leadership for the emerging generation of Christ's church, focusing on:

• Urban ministry
• Small church ministry
• Emerging generation worship
• Transition into ministry

The Transition into Ministry Task Force builds on the Lewis Center's work on the early years of ministry and the residency process. One goal is to support the probationary process and mentoring programs with new resources that can be used widely throughout the church.

A convocation held on the Wesley campus in October, 2005 brought together Bishops, church leaders, and seminary representatives to launch this vital initiative. "Making Connections" is supported by the Lilly Endowment, Inc.