congregation is strengthened as it builds and equips leaders with ministry development tools.  The purpose is to honor the unique environment of the local church and “fan the flame” of the shared vision of mission and ministry. As a critical mass of competent leaders grows, this critical mass begins to influence the climate, structure and process of a parish and its life of extending the Gospel of Jesus. Over the space of successive summer Institutes, leaders in parish structures create a comprehensive “tool belt” of resources and strategies to release capacity and strength in local churches. This experience of a learning community in a retreat environment is encountered through seminars, coaching, projects, reading, prayer, small groups, sabbath time and worship with a faculty of veteran, experienced leaders from parish life and the seminary. Leaders attending the Epiphany Institute will be grounded in strategies and approaches for healthy development, even in times of uncertainty and change. The goal is to foster strong parish life with structures which give attention to the needs of the congregation to be faithful to the Great Commission.  In-parish consultations are offered as a way to extend this ministry development into the local church.

There are two Epiphany Institutes in 2008.  The first will at Mustang Island Conference Center on April 21 to 26 and the second will be at Lake Logan Episcopal Center on August 4 to 9.  Full information and registration forms are found at http://www.epiphanyinstitute.org