Page 10 - 2018 Annual Report | Catalyst Magazine

The Ecumenical University was chartered by Redfern II, Presid- ing Bishop and General Overseerof the Ecumenical Church of Christ Worldwide, April 11, 2012. The Ecu- menical University was chartered in the state of South Carolina as a church under the auspices of the Ecumenical Church of Christ Worldwide to create a formal internal process for training pastors and lay persons, who have had limited access to seminary training.The idea for the University began when Bishop Redfern II was then serv- ing as the International Director of Dr. Stephen Manley’s Cross Style School of Practical ministry. Dr. Manley had developed a system of training pas- tors and lay ministers with over 300 hours of course materials. Pastors and Lay ministers from over 40 countries were trained with materials that were provided with a television, DVD play- er and a generator. These training kits were provided to rural churches and groups in undeveloped countries throughout the world.Over the years, the students wanted their studies to be authenticated and their completion of the course ma- terials recognized. We started with a certi cate of completion which later became a degree and then to the di- ploma level. In 2006 we started having graduation ceremonies with cap and gowns. When the students started us- ing their certi cates and diplomas as references in their local churches, with the government and as a prerequisite for ordination and ministry work, itbecame clear that a central worldwide facility was needed to curate their ed- ucational accomplishments.With the formation of the Ecumeni- cal University, a worldwide system is being created to standardize training, grading of course work, recording stu- dents’ certi cate, degree and diploma achievements. The method of delivery of course materials has also evolved into a smaller digital footprint. We’ve moved from 160 DVD’s to a single jump drive and from there to a com- plete online educational experience. We are now using tablets, e-readers, computers and smart phones. There are still teachers who still visit small rural communities that are o the grid.The University adopted the curriculum of the Cross Style School of Practical Ministry and instituted the Cross Style College with Dr. Stephen Manley as it’s Dean and Chief Academic O cer. The College awards degrees in Cross Style theology. The University is pursuing other opportunities to develop other colleges within it’s system to meet the educational needs of the modern mis- sionary minister/pastor for this season and the age to come.We plan to build 30 campuses in 14 countries to train the new missionaries and community development agents for the next generation. Each campus will cost us roughly $150,000 to com- plete. It will have a Welcome Center/ Admin Block, a Main Hall/Auditorium, Health Center, Classroom Block, facil- ities for nursery and primary school,10 CITYLIGHT | CROSS STYLE | ECUMENICAL CHURCH & UNIVERSITYTHE ECUMENICAL UNIVERSITY