Certificate in Wesleyan-Methodist Leadership and Congregational Justice
A Pilot Program in Partnership with the First Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and the Methodist House of Studies at Memphis Theological Seminary
Accessible. Practical. Rooted in the CME Legacy.
This non-degree certificate is designed for pastors, stewards, class leaders, missionaries, youth workers, and laypersons, as well as all who feel called to serve more faithfully in their congregations and communities—anyone seeking to grow in spiritual depth, theological understanding, and practical leadership for the sake of the Church’s witness in the world.
No seminary background is required.
Why This Program?
The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church was born in struggle, shaped by education, and sustained by a holy commitment to liberation. This program carries that legacy forward, bringing seminary-level teaching into the heart of the Church, congregations, and communities. In times such as these, marked by social division, economic disparity, and questions of justice and belonging, it is vital to discern afresh what it means to be the Church, grounded in tradition yet responsive to the urgent needs of our communities.
When & Where
- Quarterly Gatherings in Little Rock at Bullock Temple CME Church
- 1513 S Park St, Little Rock, AR 72202
- First Session: Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Time: 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Each session includes worship, teaching, holy conferencing, and a shared meal.
Full Schedule:
- Module 1: October 18, 2025
- Module 2: December 20, 2025
- Module 3: February 7, 2026
- Module 4: Date to be determined
Our Curriculum
- The Method of Methodism – grace, means of grace, and practical spirituality of discipleship
- Accountable Discipleship – mutual care and spiritual growth in community
- Congregational Care through a Methodist Lens – pastoral care, hospitality, and ministry with those in grief, aging, and dementia
- Wesleyan Witness and Justice – social holiness and God’s preferential option for the poor
Learning is project-based—participants apply what they learn directly in their congregations and communities.
Faculty and Leadership
The program is led by the Wesleyan/Methodist faculty of Memphis Theological Seminary, along with distinguished leaders of the CME Church:
- Rev’d Dr. Jonathan Jeffords – Program Director and Primary Facilitator
- Rev’d Dr. Thomas Hermans-Webster – Professor of Wesleyan Studies
- Rev’d Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield – Vice President of Academic Affairs, Academic Dean and Professor of Christian Education
- Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas – Presiding Bishop of the First Episcopal District and additional CME leaders
Together, these teachers bring deep expertise in Wesleyan theology, congregational care, discipleship, and justice-rooted leadership.
Cost & Recognition
- $400 for the full yearlong certificate (all four modules)
- Participants are encouraged to register once for the entire program to ensure continuity and CEU tracking. Limited single-module registration ($100 per session) may be available upon request. Please email cmeregistration@
memphisseminary.edu to request these financial arrangements. - Graduates honored at Memphis Theological Seminary Commencement, May 2026
- Continuing Education Units (CEUs) may be awarded. Participants who complete all four sessions and required assignments will receive up to 2.0 CEUs, certified by Memphis Theological Seminary. Participants intending to receive CEUs should indicate this at registration so proper documentation can be prepared.
Register now and join this pilot program in leadership and justice formation!
Contact: cmeregistration@memphisseminary.edu