The Ministerial Program
Objectives Crediting & Requirements The Required Program The Elective Program
Examination & Credentialing Attendance & Service Transfer of Credits Tuition

         The Institute For Spiritual Development has long recognized the need for a comprehensive educational program dedicated to the training of capable Ministerial Personnel, and has committed itself to executing a program which embodies the highest standards of achievement, knowledge, self-awareness and service in the preparation of its clergy.   Having addressed itself to this profound task, the Institute provides the means and criteria for such ministerial preparation in a well defined yet fluid program through which its objectives may be realized and the future served.   If the Modern Spiritual Movement is to achieve the full import of its task in the awakening age, it can only be achieved by the serious task of qualified leadership through education, preparation and training.   To the end that enlightenment may prevail, the Institute offers the following training program leading to Ordination into the Ministry.  

 

OBJECTIVES

     In establishing this program, The Institute seeks to set a comprehensive standard of participation and qualification in the philosophy and principles of the Organization, which will reflect the highest level of achievement for all.   Challenged through study, exploration and participation within the dynamics of a viable educational system; strengthened by prayer and meditation; ennobled by the joy of service and action; fortified by responsibility; each candidate can achieve the goal of becoming an informed, well prepared and intelligent spokesperson - legally and spiritually prepared for ministerial service and a voice of the New Age Movement.   This ministry, and those seeking admission therein, assume the responsibility of an open, vigorous and forthright pursuit of spiritual and intellectual excellence.   Thus prepared, all ministers of the Institute for Spiritual Development may be justly assured of their ability to serve the quest for enlightenment and the development of the spiritual abilities within the church and the community at large.  

 

CREDITING AND REQUIREMENTS

     This program and ongoing training are available to all members of good standing of the Institute For Spiritual Development.   The four phases of the study requires that each candidate complete a total of sixteen required courses of two academic credits each, plus eight elective credits -- a total of forty academic credits.   In addition to the course requirements administered under the auspices of The Institute, candidates will be required to provide evidence of the successful completion of college-level courses in: Basic English Composition Basic Psychology Public Speaking.   These courses may be completed at any accredited institution of higher learning of the candidates choosing.   At the end of the first and third stages of the program, each candidate may be subject to a psychological profile examination to determine his/her preparedness for the ministry.   Candidates are expected to assume a leadership role in the activities of the Church, and are subject to periodic evaluation and review by the Board of Spiritual Advisors as to their progress and continuation in the program.   Finally, each candidate for ordination is expected to demonstrate a professional competence in one or more areas of esoteric ability, such as healing, mediumship, inspirational speaking, etc.   A Candidate for Ordination must serve one year as Deacon.    

 

THE REQUIRED PROGRAM

Phase I - The Order of Cleric

I.   Fundamentals of Metaphysical Beliefs and Psychic Facts (2 Credits)
An intensive survey of the essential beliefs, practices and principles of the Modern Metaphysical Movement, especially promulgated by the Institute For Spiritual Development, including an examination and evaluation of all phases of spiritual manifestation
II.  The Process of Self Awakening (2 Credits)
An in-depth study of the motivations and processes of human development keyed to the use of metaphysical approaches in controlling life, the mind, emotions and spirit, and establishing balance in oneself and others.
III.  The Laws of The Universe (2 Credits)
An introduction to Hermetic Philosophy and a sound working knowledge of the principles by which the Universe is governed.
IV.  Survey of the Esoteric Sciences (2 Credits)
A thorough examination of all aspects of esoteric knowledge including astrology, numerology, tarot, magic, alchemy, and their interrelationship.  Designed to give the student a firm basis of appreciation and discussion of the esoteric.
V.  Platform Preparation (2 Credits)
A practical and extensive workshop in deportment, protocol and presentation for all who appear in the public eye, and training for the function of MC.
VI.  Elective Courses (2 Credits)
Cleric Certificate - The Cleric Certificate shall be granted to candidates who successfully complete the required courses and evaluations of Phase I.

Phase II - The Order of Missionary

I.   Principles of Metaphysics (2 Credits)
A strong introduction into the meaning, terminologies and philosophy of Metaphysics.
II.  Metaphysical Interpretation of the Old Testament (2 Credits)
Employing the principles and ideas of metaphysics to evaluate and interpret the message of the Old Testament.
III.  Metaphysical Interpretation of the New Testament(2 Credits)
Continuing the process of metaphysical thought by applying the principles to the life and teachings of Jesus and the process of his Christing.
IV.  The Esoteric Nature of Man (2 Credits)
A holistic consideration of the true nature of man in his manifest bodies, and the energy centers and forces which produce his actions and attitudes.
V.  Homiletics (2 Credits)
A practical and extensive workshop in public speaking especially as it relates to presentation and development of spiritual thoughts and ideas into a coherent, inspirational message.
VI.  Elective Courses (2 Credits)
Missionary Certificate - The Missionary Certificate shall be granted to those who hold a Cleric Certificate, and who have successfully completed the required courses and evaluations of Phase II.

Phase III - The Order of Deacon

I.   The Faith By Which Men Live (2 Credits)
An examination psychological, sociological, and cultural imperatives which dictate the context and content of faith and organized religion.
II.  Comparative Religion (2 Credits)
A survey of the great religions of the world which have shaped mankind and the Avatars around which these religious philosophies are centered.
III.  Apologetics/A History of the Modern Spiritual Movement(2 Credits)
A solid an honest review of the people and events which have molded the New Age Movement, and a strong review of the history and biblical basis of the movement.
IV.  History of the Christian Era(2 Credits)
An objective study of the Christian Era, the evolution of the Bible, and its effect upon human development.
V.  Platform Preparation (2 Credits)
A practical and extensive workshop in deportment, protocol and presentation for all who appear in the public eye, and training for the function of MC.
VI.  Elective Courses (2 Credits)
Certificate of Deacon - Certificate of Deacon shall be granted to candidates who hold a Missionary Certificate and who have successfully completed the courses and evaluation proscribed for Phase III of the Program

Phase IV - The Order of Minister

I.   Church Management (2 Credits)
Church organization and operation, including the duties and responsibilities of all designated officers, trustees and pastoral staff; plus a review of the legalities of church function.
II.  Preparation for the Ministry (2 Credits)
A practical experience in designing and conducting special services including baptisms, weddings, funerals, memorials, etc. which are required in the functioning of the ministerial office.
III.  The Art of Counseling(2 Credits)
Dealing with people and their situations with care, respect, caution and consideration.
IV.  Ethics (2 Credits)
The codes of conduct and behavior appropriate to ministerial service, and the limitations that apply in the execution of pastoral responsibility.
V.  Homiletics (2 Credits)
A practical and extensive workshop in public speaking especially as it relates to presentation and development of spiritual thoughts and ideas into a coherent, inspirational message.
VI.  Elective Courses (2 Credits)
Certificate of Ordination - The Certificate of Ordination shall be granted to those who whole the position of Deacon for one year, and have successfully completed the required courses and evaluations of Phase IV.  In addition, Candidates for ordination must complete all outside course requirements; must rate satisfactorily in psychological profile; must receive final approval of the Board of Spiritual Advisors.
 

THE ELECTIVE PROGRAM

     The intention of the flexible elective program is to permit the student the opportunity to pursue areas of study which are of special interest, and to broaden one's exposure and experience.  Subject to the approval of the Director, and with prior permission, students may receive accreditation for seminars and classes (whether offered by the Institute or not) which are in keeping with the tone and quality of the required program.  Such elective courses, each carrying a maximum of one credit, might include (but by no means limited to):   The Art of Healing, Church Music, Review of Psychic Literature, Astrology, Numerology, Tarot, The Quaballah, Advanced Hermetic Philosophy, The Human Aura, Huna, Reflexology, Eastern Philosophy. 

 

EXAMINATIONS AND CREDENTIALING

     Examination may be required for all course work taken for credit.   Students are expected to perform satisfactorily in all courses to receive credit for the course.   At the completion of the program, and prior to ordination, each candidate must be prepared to complete a Comprehensive Qualifying Examination.   Each candidate seeking ordination is encourage to serve at another approved Church in ministering and serving in the capacity of a "Guest Minister".   The Board of Spiritual Advisors reserves the right of final decision for ordination of any candidate after a review of the candidates credentials and performance.  

 

ATTENDANCE AND SERVICE

      Attendance is expected at all classes taken for credit.   Students are permitted one excused absence per two credit hours.   Regular attendance at all worship and spiritual functions of the Institute is deemed essential, and active participation in the Churches on-going activities is required.   As the Ministry is a dedication to a life of service, a willing availability to serve must be the hallmark of every candidate.  
 

TRANSFER OF CREDITS

      At the discretion of the Director, The Institute will accept credit for course work satisfactorily completed outside of this program.  The student must provide a comprehensive course description, proof of completion (by transcript, certificate of completion or letter of completion by the instructor), an may be expected to pass a qualifying examination for the course before credits will be accepted.  
 

TUITION

      Tuition and costs are established by the Executive Board of the Institute For Spiritual Development and are subject to change and review.   The Institute is prepared to offer limited scholarship assistance to its members.   Application for scholarship assistance may be addressed directly to the Executive Board.  


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