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The Department of Church Growth & Development, in partnership with the Connectional Lay Council: Evangelism Certification Program
Greetings Zion Family,
The Department of Church Growth & Development, in partnership with the Connectional Lay Council, is excited to share that registration is open for our Evangelism Certification Program, beginning September 8, 2026.
This program is designed to equip Christians with the biblical foundation, practical tools, and hands-on experience needed to confidently share their faith, disciple new believers, and train others in evangelism and discipleship.
And this isn’t just another virtual course. Participants will move from learning → practicing → doing through a combination of:
Virtual instruction exploring the biblical, theological, and practical foundations of evangelism
Practical training in apologetics, spiritual preparation, digital ministry, witnessing, discipleship, and local church evangelism
Hands-on, in-person outreach where participants will put newly developed skills into practice in the field
Evangelism & Discipleship Plan development that can be implemented within the participant’s own local church
A culminating Service of Commissioning celebrating successful completion of the program
Download the course brochure for more information. Everyone is welcome to attend and view the course sessions, whether you are pursuing certification or simply want to grow in your understanding and practice of evangelism.
However, participants who wish to receive Evangelism Certification at the conclusion of the program should understand that this is a structured course of study. Attendance will be tracked, assignments will be required, and certification requirements must be successfully completed.
If you are ready to become more confident in sharing your faith, more intentional about making disciples, and better equipped to help your church engage its community, this course is for you.
Course Begins: September 8, 2026
Weekly Virtual Sessions via Zoom
In-Person Evangelism Lab: October 24, 2026
Service of Commissioning: November 8, 2026
Don’t just talk about evangelism. Get equipped to do it.
REGISTER TODAY!
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER: https://us.list-manage.com/dBFTAEHZ03A?e=081dc5f242&c2id=d838a9873e8cd73e807adcfb428d3572
DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE: https://us.list-manage.com/9TvVZIy0xLK?e=081dc5f242&c2id=d838a9873e8cd73e807adcfb428d3572
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Dr. Eleazar Merriweather
Executive Director
Department of Church Growth & Development
The A.M.E. Zion Church
The Department of Church Growth & Development and the Department of Records & Research: The Book of Discipline: The Interworking of the Local Church
Greetings Zion Family,
SAVE THE DATE! The Department of Church Growth & Development and the Department of Records & Research are excited to announce a new course curriculum:
THE BOOK OF DISCIPLINE: THE INTERWORKING OF THE LOCAL CHURCH
Building on our popular Blessing or Burden? You Decide. series, which provided a high-level overview of the Book of Discipline, this new course will take us deeper—moving beyond simply knowing what the Discipline says to examining how its principles, structures, ministries, and practices are intended to work together to strengthen the local church and advance the Great Commission. These sessions will kick off on Monday Nights Beginning September 14, 2026 at 8:00 PM (ET).
Throughout this extended course, we’ll explore topics including:
The purpose of the Book of Discipline and the foundations of Methodism
Christian doctrine and the Articles of Religion
The General Rules and Methodist discipleship
The roles and responsibilities of local church ministries
Leadership development for clergy and laity
Biblical stewardship, budgeting, and church finances
Developing relevant and transformative ministries
Vision casting, teamwork, conflict resolution, and church revitalization
And much more!
Whether you are a pastor, clergy member, local church officer, ministry leader, or layperson who simply wants to better understand how the A.M.E. Zion Church is designed to function, this course is for you.
For now, save the date and spread the word! Additional information, including registration details and the complete course schedule, will be shared soon.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Dr. Eleazar Merriweather
Executive Director
Department of Church Growth & Development
The A.M.E. Zion Church
Back to School
Wilmington District Students, as you step into a brand‑new school year, remember that you are capable, gifted, and covered by God’s grace. Each day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover more of who you are becoming. Walk into your classrooms with confidence, kindness, and a determination to do your best. Even when challenges arise, know that you have the strength to overcome them and the support of a community that believes in you. Shine brightly, lead boldly, and let this year be one where you rise higher than ever before.
Lord, cover every student in the Wilmington District with Your wisdom, peace, and protection. Strengthen their minds, steady their hearts, and guide their steps. Help them learn with confidence, lead with kindness, and shine with the purpose You’ve placed within them. Amen.
Be Blessed!
Wilmington District Lay Council
AME Zion Christian Education Department
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