Mission
Our mission is to equip and encourage current and future generations of local Christian leaders to fulfill their ministry calling by God’s grace through a relationship of relentless reliance on Jesus Christ and the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. Through local and online ministry training, we are committed to nurturing the callings and ministry dreams of our students in an environment of sound teaching, active mentorship/discipleship, and spiritual encouragement, that each may have opportunity to be fully equipped to serve and lead in obedience to Jesus Christ.
Online Ministry Training at Christian Leaders Institute
The Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) is a renowned online educational platform dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality ministry training. Designed to support the development of Christian leaders worldwide, CLI offers a wide range of courses that cover theological education, ministry training, and leadership development. These courses are crafted to be completely accessible without financial burden (tuition-free!), ensuring that anyone with a calling can receive the education they need to serve effectively in their communities. CLI utilizes advanced online learning technologies to deliver a flexible, engaging, and enriching educational experience, allowing students to study at their own pace and from any location. With a strong commitment to scriptural foundations and practical application, the Christian Leaders Institute provides the opportunity for students to grow in their faith and leadership skills, fully equipped to lead and inspire as followers of Jesus Christ.
Degree & Non-Degree Seeking Options
Ordination
Local Ministry Training Classes
CLI offers a comprehensive range of educational pathways to suit diverse ministry goals, including both degree and non-degree options. The degree programs – offered through CLI’s Leadership Excellence School - provide a structured and in-depth curriculum leading to Associate's and Bachelor's degrees in Divinity, which are designed to equip students with an understanding of biblical knowledge and practical ministry skills. For those seeking more flexibility or specific ministry training without the commitment of a full degree, CLI offers diplomas, awards and certificate through its Christian Development School. Both degree and non-degree seeking students have access to CLI’s entire curriculum and all courses are tuition-free. The non-degree options are ideal for students who wish to enhance specific skills or deepen their knowledge in particular aspects of ministry. Whether pursuing a degree or a diploma/award/certificate, all students receive a high-quality, scripture-based education that prepares them to serve effectively in their chosen ministry contexts. Degree seeking students pay an administrative fee - $2000 for an associates degree/$4000 for a bachelors degree.
CLI works with local ministry leaders to ordain and credential students who successfully complete their course of study as members of the Christian Leaders Alliance. Members of the Christian Leaders Alliance are eligible to register their local ministry as a recognized CLA Soul Center. There are presently more than 75 soul centers registered world-wide https://www.soulcenters.org).
In addition to the online offerings through the Christian Leaders Institute, the Fort Wayne School of Ministry is proud to provide a variety of local ministry training classes, designed to complement your digital education with in-person learning experiences. These classes are independently offered and do not count toward credit at CLI. Taught by gifted local pastors and ministry leaders, each recognized for their unique talents and dedication to God’s work, our local classes provide practical, hands-on learning opportunities. The format and duration of these classes vary, ranging from intensive workshops and seminars to detailed lectures and full-semester courses. These courses will be live and in-person. Whether you are looking to deepen your understanding of specific theological concepts, learn from experienced local ministry leaders, or enhance your practical ministry skills, our local training seeks to provide a wide and unique range of ministry training opportunities, fostering a robust and community-focused learning environment.
