Welcome to the Formation Leaders’ Professional Development section of our website, a dedicated space where ministry leaders, educators, and mentors can enhance their skills and deepen their understanding in guiding others on their spiritual journey. Here, we recognize the unique challenges and opportunities that come with leading faith-based education and spiritual growth. Our resources are meticulously crafted to support your continual growth as a formation leader, offering a blend of theological insight, practical teaching strategies, and leadership skills tailored to the dynamic and evolving landscape of church ministry.
Whether you’re new to leadership or seeking to enrich your existing experience, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration needed to effectively nurture and inspire those you serve in their faith journey.
Suggested Reading by Topic
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
Children’s Spirituality – what it is and why it matters by Rebecca Nye
CONGREGATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Vital Christian Community – Twelve Characteristics of Healthy Congregations
LGBTQIA+
Gender Inclusive Children’s Ministry
Welcoming and Affirming – A Guide to Supporting and Working With LGBTQ+ Youth
MENTAL HEALTH
Back to School with Bird, Pt. 3 – And then Back to our Regularly Scheduled Programming
Mess Makes Meaning – Episode 6 – Church Hurt and Mental Health
Mental Health First Aid Training
NEURODIVERSITY & NEURODIVERGENCE
Neurodiversity in the Classroom: Creating a more inclusive Sunday School
Back to School with Bird, Pt. 1 – This week’s lesson: A Primer on Neurodiversity & Neurodivergence
Back to School with Bird, Pt. 2 – Healing Narratives and the Journey Toward Inclusion
YOUTH MINISTRY
And Also with You Podcast – What does teen ministry teach us about Jesus?
Books for Children and Youth Ministry
Popi’s All Souls Song written by C.K. Malone illustrated by Shelly Swann
Training Opportunities
Leadership Academy
March 7, 2026
Trinity Episcopal Church
Towards a Fuller Gospel
Tuesday’s in May
Online
Godly Play Core Traning
May 30 – July 1
Christ Church Coronado
Lay Catechist Training
Six-month program
August 2025
Formation Retreat
October 23-25, 2025
Camp Stevens
LARK
October 17 & 18, 2025
Trinity, Escondido




