Continuing Education for Church Leaders at West Virginia University.

The roots of clergy education at West Virginia University (WVU) came from the American Country Life Movement in the early 1900's, one of the earliest, nationally recognized community life programs in America. Under the joint sponsorship of an ecumenical commission and WVU, a state minister's conference was launched in 1927 at Jackson's Mill, the primary purpose of which was to equip ministers for community leadership and participation in the Country Life Conference program. Over the years, Jackson's Mill became a conference center for all types of church groups and in 1968, the first full-time effort in clergy education began. In the absence of a theological faculty at WVU, the Appalachian Regional School for Church Leaders: established a graduate, professional level of training for parish pastors and other church leaders; designed an educational program to augment and supplement the seminary training of church leaders; and involved the professional clergy in the design, operation, and evaluation of the School, as well as in the recruitment of participants. The objectives of the School were designed to provide an opportunity for church leaders to become more effective in their church and community leadership roles. Also included in this pamphlet is information on educational emphases, curricula, participants, administration, evaluation, and off-campus programs. (AN).