a Vision becomes more than a Reality

On May 11, 2007, the Christian Leadership College graduated its first class of students.

By Mark Mathewson, PhD.
Christian Leadership College, Dean

Gayle Gerkensmeyer, Marv Chauza and Brian Shanks received the Certificate of Christian Leadership awarded by the CLC for fulfillment of academic and ministry experience requirements.

Congratulations to Gayle, Marv and Brian!

The CLC completes its inaugural year celebrating God’s goodness and blessing. The original vision former Lincoln Berean pastor Curt Lehman had of LBC training Christian leaders has become more than a reality.

The CLC has already proven to be an effective instrument God is using to impact the lives of Christians called to be leaders in churches, Christian organizations, and the public square. This year’s graduates return to their various ministries better equipped to lead.

Gayle Gerkensmeyer works with SportReach, Marv Chauza manages the skate park at Back to the Bible’s Edge 64, and Brian Shanks re-enters the marketplace while continuing to serve on the board of Lincoln Christian School. In addition, over 25 students audited day courses for personal enrichment and continuing education, and the enrollment for the evening Worldview Studies program topped 100 students desiring to better understand the Christian worldview and its relation to the culture in which we live.

The students studying at the CLC are taught and trained by a highly qualified and experienced faculty. The eight primary instructors, along with other LBC staff who participated in the teaching and training, have a wealth of ministry and leadership experience. Several hold advanced degrees in their area of expertise.

The CLC is already planning for the next academic year. God is bringing in new students for leadership and worldview training. The Worldview Studies program is expanding to add several new evening courses. In accordance with its mission of training Christian leaders, the CLC will also launch a new track of studies in its Christian Leadership program. The Marketplace Track will train Christians whom God has called into leadership positions in the marketplace.

The CLC attributes its success this year to a vision by a former pastor who saw what part LBC could play in training Christian leaders; the faithful members of LBC who have supported the CLC with their prayers and finances; quality students eager to work hard at fulfilling their calling as leaders; and, dedicated faculty and staff who take seriously the training of the next generation of leaders.

But above all, the CLC attributes its first year success to a good and gracious God who has met all its needs and accomplished more than anyone would have imagined.

For more details about the educational opportunities provided by the CLC, or other ways to be involved in the ministry of the CLC, contact Amy Schmitt or visit www.christianleadershipcollege.org.