Earn Certificate in United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministry
Embark on a journey of personal and professional development, vocational preparation, and lifelong friendships.
Certificate in United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministry
The certificate in United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries is available to United Methodist Camp/Retreat Ministry leaders in partnership with the UMCRM Association. Completion of the certificate provides recognition that an individual has been called, made a commitment to serve, and has fulfilled the required standards for academic training, experience, and continuing study to serve with excellence in an area of specialized ministry.
The Process
- Submit Application for UMCRM Core Training This enters you into the process and notifies the UMCRM Association of your intention to achieve Certification in Camp & Retreat Ministry.
- Talk to your Director or Board about your aspirations, seeking their endorsement and support with the very reasonable tuition and expenses as an investment in your development as a camp/retreat ministry leader.
- Complete the Core Training coursework, including UMCRM Immersion Experience, Directed Site Visit, and Capstone. Depending on your start date, this process can generally be completed in 2- 2 ½ years. The cost ranges about $4000 total (including tuition, room and board), plus travel expenses. Limited scholarship assistance is available through the Legacy of Leadership Fund.
- Verify your completed requirements with the UMCRM Association. Receive your Certificate of Completion.
- Celebrate! Arrange to share and celebrate your achievement with your Annual Conference.
Compass Points Certificate Program
Compass Points is a cooperative program of the UMCRM Association, the Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association, Outdoor Ministries Association of the United Church of Christ, Lutheran Outdoor Ministries, and Episcopal Camps and Conference Centers Inc. in partnership with Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia. The Compass Points courses are intended for learners who would like to expand and deepen their knowledge in camp and retreat ministry. The participants come from a wide variety of positions, facility types, and program models. Persons of all denominations are welcome. We invite you to learn more about the structure and content of this certificate program.
