At its core, this program is about faith formation—helping people grow deeper in Scripture, theology, and discipleship.
The Growing in Faith/Diakonia Program, or GIF or just Diakonia consists of a 2-year program with flexibility for synods to meet the needs of their regional students. Courses are now taught in person, hybrid or completely online.
What it is: the program offers deeper faith formation, spiritual enrichment and a biblical education grounding to lay individuals in the church, Growing in Faith/Diakonia strives to build powerful disciples and spirit-led missionaries, by providing:
Rich, theological education.
A deepened appreciation of the Bible – dynamic, living and transformational.
Clarity in forms of grace-filled service.
What it isn’t: Growing in Faith isn’t intended to lead to licensure or rostering, although a number of people have used this as a first step in finding just such a vocation. Diakonia works best when pastors offer Diakonia participants varied opportunities to learn and to serve.
Our mission statement is “Engaging in faith formation to equip disciples to live out their baptismal call.”
Our Vision is a world where all baptized see themselves blessed to be a blessing. In the Gospel of Matthew Jesus calls us to go forward in faith and action, making disciples of all nations. And this program opens eyes and doors for those who are willing to see and hear what their role in this world may be.