For Congregations
Certification of Christian Educators Benefits the Entire Church
SUPPORTING AND ENCOURAGING AN EDUCATOR
In recognition of the history and because of the importance of Christian education to the total ministry of the church, the PC(USA) seeks to recognize and to enhance the ministries of persons who serve as Christian educators within the church by certification that is granted at the end of an intense process of preparation, study, service, and examination.
Our Reformed tradition values the call of the community and as members of that community, the congregation should encourage Christian educators to meet, or be prepared to meet, the certification requirements of educator certification with skills and training in biblical interpretation, Reformed theology, worship and sacraments, human growth and faith development, religious education theory and practice, and the polity, program, and mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
In recognition of the fact that there are only select places where someone may go to receive a master’s or bachelor’s degree in Christian education, educator certification has been designed so that many qualified persons who have entered the field through volunteer service and part-time employment in the field, may become certified. The process is designed to be a means of growth for the educator; not only measuring the educator’s competence but also helping the educator define needs for additional education. The Session of the educator’s congregation is encouraged to make continuing education funds and time available to those seeking certification.
A more expansive overview of the steps of the Christian Certified Educator process is available here (PDF). For more information about the endorsement process for Christian Education Associate and its steps, click here and here. (PDF)
Certified Christian Educators in the PC(USA) ❭
Over 650 educators have been approved as Certified Christian Educators and Certified Associate Christian Educators in the PC(USA). The complete list is found here. (PDF, updated May 2024)
Educator Certification Committee Members❭
The Educator Certification Committee (ECC) is the elected body charged with establishing the certification standards, evaluating certification assessments, and approving and training Educator Certification Advisors.
Brett Foote |
Class of 2028 |
Sarah Hegar |
Class of 2028 |
Denise Kennedy |
Class of 2026 |
Gregg Neel (not pictured) |
Class of 2026 |
Rachel Pedersen |
Class of 2026 |
Carson Rhyne |
Class of 2026 |
Elaina Sipes |
Class of 2028 |
Appointed by Union Presbyterian Seminary: Rebecca Davis
Appointed by Association of Partners in Christian Education: Cheryl Carson
PC(USA) Staff: Martha Miller, ex-officio member
Members of the Committee are nominated through the General Assembly Nominating Committee process. To apply for nomination, visit the nominations website.
Additional Resources for the Christian Educator Call Process ❭
Calling to Educational Ministry
Revised edition (July 2016)
A manual designed to be a resource for churches who are considering calling an educator to be a part of the church staff. In addition, this is also a resource for Christian educators who are responding to a call from God to educational ministry in the church and are seeking a position. Congregations and educators will find guidance in these pages for their separate and mutual journeys toward providing the best leadership for the important task of education.
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Churches seeking a Christian educator should complete a Ministry Information Form (MIF) following Instructions for Entering a MIF while integrating the MIF Tips for Christian Educator Positions below.
Instructions for Entering a Ministry Information Form (MIF)
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Ministry Information Form (MIF) Tips for Christian Educator Positions
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Individuals interested in serving as a Christian Educator (non-ordained) should complete a Personal Information Form (PIF) following Instructions for Entering a PIF while integrating suggestions from PIF Tips for Christian Educator Positions below.
Instructions for Entering a Personal Information Form (PIF)
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Personal Information Form (PIF) Tips for Christian Educator Positions
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A Generic Position Description — Other Church Employees
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Suggested Compensation Guidelines for Establishing an Educator's Salary
This worksheet will assist in determining an appropriate salary range for a church educator.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Church Leadership Connection Process
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