Whether we like it or not, Sydney Anglicans have a reputation for being far more broadsheet than tabloid, more Chardonnay than VB, more Union than League, more lawyer than plumber, more uni than TAFE.
Like most stereotypes, this one is largely wrong. People attend Sydney Anglican churches from all demographics.
Diversifying theological education
Yet, the fact that the senior leaders of our churches are required to complete a four-year bachelor degree in Divinity in order to be given the keys to the Rectory naturally perpetuates the 'academic' stereotype.
We should not be tempted to lower the academic bar for our Rectors. Many fine theological and ministry institutions teach students in what should be preached, but Moore College has few peers in teaching its graduates what should not be preached.
Yet, this high standard of theological education means that many would-be Word ministers are scared to follow this pathway. If they are not able to graduate from Moore College, then they think that there is no place for them to minister in the Anglican Church.
This is an unfortunate and incorrect message.
It is vital for the future of the Anglican Church in Sydney that we provide opportunities for gifted men and women to serve in paid ministry positions, regardless of their academic ability. We need to provide pathways that enable people to serve in a variety of positions, receiving ministry and theological training that is appropriate for their context.
Outdoor ministry apprenticeship
One such pathway to paid Word ministry is the Outdoor Ministry Apprenticeship. This pathway is ideal for people who love being outdoors, playing sport, and talking to children and youth. It starts with a two-year MTS ministry apprenticeship, which also includes the necessary technical training through the delivery of a Certificate III in Outdoor Recreation.
After the two-year apprenticeship, suitable candidates commence two years of study at Youthworks College, and then graduate as fully-qualified Outdoor Ministers.
This pathway is ideal for people who tend to love hands-on and routine work, and are more likely to learn by doing than hearing. It's great for people who thrive by serving in a large team, and enjoy evangelising new people every day. It's the perfect place for people to cut their teeth in evangelism, and to keep evangelising for life.
Yet, not only is it a great ministry in itself, serving the Gospel to almost 20,000 kids every year, but it is also a great training ground for a lifetime of ministry in other contexts.
After serving in Outdoor Ministry, some move on to minister in a church or school. Is it possible that there is any better way to prepare for future ministry than to be active in everyday evangelism to complete strangers? This may well be the best pool of future church planters available to us.
Yet, it doesn't stop there. For Outdoor Ministers who have completed this pathway, they can then articulate directly into Second Year at Moore College, upon completion of additional subjects at Youthworks College. The training and experience of Outdoor Ministry can be 'topped up' with additional study, in order to be qualified to be one of the Rectors we require to head up our churches.
To apply for the September intake of Outdoor Ministry Apprenticeships, or to recommend it to someone else, visit [url=http://www.outdoorministry.youthworks.net]http://www.outdoorministry.youthworks.net[/url]. Applications are closing in a few weeks.
Youthworks Outdoors is looking for fine young men and women who wish to join us in this remarkable ministry to thousands of young people. It's ideal for people who may not fit the mould of the stereotypical Anglican minister. Yet, the ministry here is as cutting-edge and front-line as you will find anywhere.
Will you help us find the missing ministers?
