My name is James C. Norman. I am studying at Christian Leaders Institute on my called to minister journey (Learn more about free online Bible courses, Click Here).
My Journey
My childhood through high school was on Oakwood Bayou in Dumas in Arkansas, USA. I grew up and lived under the segregated conditions of the ’50s and ’60s. My biological father asked me to come to Cleveland, Ohio. He wanted to help me find a good job and/or help send me to college. I chose the latter. Shortly after I attained a Bachelor of Science degree in Education, he passed. Then, I relocated to Los Angeles, California, where a brother, aunts, and a host of other relatives lived. I met my wife, Bernice, in Long Beach, California. Forty years and two children later, I experienced a calling that was more like an awakening.
Called to Minister Journey Led to CLI
There is an expression, “One cannot see the forest for the trees.” I had returned to visit my place of birth with my family on many occasions. I watched the changeless existence of life on Oakwood Bayou with little interest and felt that’s just the way of life. However, on my last visit, after seeing the grass on the church and elementary school lot grow as tall as me thru neglect, I felt moved. Also, the church-managed graveyard was unkempt. It is where the gravestones of my parents, grandparents, and other relatives lie.
Upon returning home, unlike other times, I pondered, “Can I do anything?” The verse from Isaiah 6:8, “I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” With that message in my heart and mind, I am answering the call. In addition to having decided to return home, I am returning as a soon-to-be minister. I want to minister to the needs of my hometown on Oakwood Bayou, to the world, and as the Holy Spirit leads me.
Praise the Lord for the Christian Leaders Institute and the fantastic staff they have. These Godly, dedicated people are helping me to prepare for my called to minister journey one step at a time.
Steps to Sign Up At Christian Leaders Institute
Step 1 – Register for a free study account that automatically enrolls you in the Christian Leaders Getting Started Course Part 1 &2.
After you register, you will automatically be enrolled in the “getting started” course. You will locate the course at your “home” button when you are logged in. Scroll down to find the Christian Leaders Getting Started Course Part 1 &2 Link. Click the link and open the course.
Step 2 – Complete Part 1 of this course, and then you are allowed to enroll in mini-courses or regular courses.
The Christian Leaders Getting Started Class Part 1 shows you how to enroll in courses and mini-courses. Part 2 of the course connects your calling into ministry with programs offered through Christian Leaders Institute. Part 2 will offer some ministry training and introduce you to the other programs offered through Christian Leaders Institute.
Learn more about ordination at the Christian Leaders Alliance. Interested in a low-cost college degree? Check out the CLI’s Leadership Excellence School.
