It’s true that numbers aren’t everything. And yet, numbers tell an important part of many stories. This is certainly true of the ongoing story of LifeSpring. In the past academic year we’ve been caught up in the exciting story of what God is doing to prepare women and men to minister in the Church and the world.

This last year LifeSpring entered a new phase of existence, different from anything the General Conference had ever offered in higher education. As of Fall 2011 LifeSpring began offering an integrated program of Bible, theology and ministry courses, all available distance education via the internet and live simulcasting. Each district of the Conference has been served by LifeSpring this past year. In Spring 2012 we opened registration to English-speaking international students and two members from Australia have taken classes. The vision of “taking the training to the people” is being realized!

Number of Students in LifeSpring Classes in 2011-2012 by District

In Fall 2011 LifeSpring launched the Certificate of Biblical Studies program. This one year, part-time program provides students with the foundation they need to know God and to faithfully serve in various ministry capacities. It also provides the required training for individuals to apply for a Lay Pastor Certificate.   Students enroll in either English or Spanish language classes taught by some of the finest scholars and pastors in the General Conference.

Demographics for Students in Certificate of Biblical Studies Courses 2011-2012

 Graduates of the Certificate of Biblical Studies program are eligible to continue their training in the Diploma of Christian Ministry program being launched Fall 2012. This two year, part-time program invites students to pursue their relationship with God as they are further equipped for a variety of ministry roles. It also provides the required training for individuals to apply for a Ministerial License.

In the past two years seventeen students completed their training with LifeSpring and twelve of them have gone on to receive their Ministerial License. They serve the Church in assignments from Washington in the West to Maryland in the East, from Michigan in the North to Texas in the South. They are answering the urgent call to address the leadership crisis by filling our depleted ministerial ranks.

Percentage of Documented Ministers by Age in 2009 vs. 2012

It’s true that numbers aren’t everything. But the statistics here represent more than just numbers. These are real people growing in relationship with God and being better equipped to serve in their families, communities and local churches. They are being equipped to be better friends, wives, husbands, worship leaders, youth workers, Sabbath school teachers, deacons and pastors. LifeSpring is for everyone, and everyone benefits from the success of our students!  

What part will you play in the story God is telling through LifeSpring School of Ministry?