THE ACADEMY

The Academy is a series of classes designed for those who want to grow in their faith and knowledge; grow as a leader; serve God in new ways and opportunities; engage in meaningful continuing education; and learn from the best of teachers. The Academy develops well equipped, thoughtful individuals to better serve the congregations and councils in a variety of ways. Many use this training on their journey toward becoming Commissioned Pastors, others for their own enrichment. Completion of the 11 courses fulfills the educational requirements to become a CP/CRE in the participating presbyteries. Participants can join at any point in the schedule.

A brochure describing the program can be downloaded by clicking here.

The Academy developed out of conversations between the presbyteries of Minnesota Valleys, North Central Iowa and Prospect Hill and the Synod of Lakes and Prairies. The group determined that if they worked together, they could not only address the growing needs for Commissioned Pastors but also recruit nationally known instructors to enhance the program. A task force of the visioning group developed a curriculum of 11 classes that would meet the educational expectations of each participating presbytery.

Sponsoring presbyteries: East Iowa, Minnesota Valleys, Missouri River Valley, North Central Iowa, Northern Waters, Prospect Hill and Twin Cities Area. Sponsoring presbyteries contribute $2,500 annually to help cover the costs of travel and honoraria for the instructors and facilitators of the Academy. They are also given two seats on the Academy Board, which makes decisions about the program and needs.

For more information, contact Deb DeMeester, Director of Leadership Development.

Get Started Today

Summer classes are offered at the Synod School of the Synod of Lakes and Prairies at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, IA. Commissioned Pastors are encouraged to take these as ongoing Continuing Education and for building relationships with other Commissioned Pastors.

Each fall and spring, classes are held at a retreat center centrally located among participants.

Winter practicums are offered online to eliminate the need for mid-winter travel. Lecture content will be met with hands on experiences and insightful conversations with pastors.

Tuition

Member of Participating Presbytery:

$125.00/class

$1,375/full program

Non-member:

$175/class

$1,925/full program

This is also how you sign up for and pay for room and board.

Additional Expenses:

Each participant will purchase required books, pay annually for room and board at Synod School (approximately $290/double or $390/single), as well as travel and room/board expenses for Fall and Spring classes. The Synod of Lakes and Prairies will provide a Synod School scholarship of $100/summer for Academy participants (already calculated in the prices above.

Upcoming Classes & Class Registration

Winter and Spring 2025

Pastoral Care with Lisa Watson, information and registration can be found by clicking here.
Formation for Mission

July 20 – 25, 2025 at Synod School

Polity with Pam Prouty
Old Testament with Cambria Howard

Fall 2025

New Testament - OPSF Online
Spiritual Development - In person

Winter and Spring 2026

Reformed Theology - OPSF
Proclamation - OPSF

July 26-31, 2026 Synod School

Congregational Leadership and Congregational Revitalization led by Loren Shellabarger and Ian McMullen

Fall 2026

Old Testament - OPSF
New Testament - OPSF
Worship - In person

Questions should be directed to Deb DeMeester, Director of Leadership Development.

WHAT LEADERS ARE SAYING

I am loving the Academy course! It is so great to get to know other people with the same interests as I have, and I have already put into practice so much of what I have learned!