The Beginning of My Life’s Calling Journey
I am Dawn Smith, and I live in the United States. The tuition-free Bible School classes at the Christian Leaders Institute equip me wherever God leads me.
My Early Years
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, but now reside in Battle Creek, Michigan. I grew up with a teenage mother and a father who was not in my life. My mom’s dad was a Deacon at a small Pentecostal church. I went to his house most weekends and attended church with him and his family. Further, I also went to church with my dad’s mom. Although I attended church, I grew up not knowing who or what I wanted to be. I saw family members attend church but not live out what was being taught. As a child, I was an introvert, and as I got older, I wondered why my family didn’t follow the word of God.
When I was old enough to be on my own, I lived life the way I wanted. I drank, smoked, and looked for God to fix my life. It was what I had always seen. So it wasn’t strange to me until, one day, my husband brought me to a church. That church taught me what it meant to be holy. Even though I had a good heart, I learned what it meant to love God. I stayed with the church as my husband and I grew apart. He wanted to continue a life of drugs and alcohol. However, I wanted to get to know the Lord more and be a better example to my four children. So, we divorced. The Lord does work in mysterious ways.
Tuition-Free Bible School Classes at CLI
While under the same leadership for almost twenty years, I have worked in the church in many capacities. My pastor has mentored me and is always there when I need her. I learned how to teach my kids how to be doers and not just hearers of God’s Word. I believe in “Do as I do” and not “Do as I say.” Further, being faithful to the Lord and seeking Him only opened the door to me being blessed with a wonderful man of God. We have been married for almost eight years and have a son.
I’ve had the desire to know more about the Bible. However, I didn’t have the money to go to Bible School. I asked my pastor for some books on Bible studies. But I still wanted more. Therefore, one day, I looked on the web for free online Bible School classes. When I saw Christian Leaders Institute, it stood out to me. So, I clicked on it. As I saw what the school offered, I knew that this was where the Lord wanted my next journey to begin.
I’m not sure what the Lord has for me to do. Regardless, I need this schooling. I ask for your prayers that the Lord will continue to guide me as I take this next step. My desire has always been to help people know that no matter their struggles, there is always an answer in Jesus Christ.
Register a Study Account
Register for a free study account, automatically enrolling you in the Getting Started Class at the Christian Leaders Learning Platform. The Getting Started class will take you less than an hour to complete.
When you log in to the Learning Platform, you will notice that the Getting Started Class automatically appears on your dashboard.
The Getting Started Class will orientate you to the Christian Leaders Learning Platform and the Programs offered, including:
- Ministry Awards, Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees with the Christian Leaders Institute.
- Minister Credentialling (Ordination) with the Christian Leaders Alliance, including local Soul Center registration possibilities.
Note: You can enroll in tuition-free courses or mini-courses immediately without finishing the getting started class.
Find out more about women in ministry here.
GET ORDAINED IN FLORIDA
Are you ready to embark on a journey of fulfillment and service by becoming an ordained minister in Florida? It’s a deeply rewarding endeavor that allows you to serve your faith community and officiate sacred ceremonies. Whether your heart desires to unite couples in marriage or engage in other ministerial duties, understanding the process of ordination and the resources available to you is crucial.
FLORIDA'S STATE LAW
In Florida, the process of becoming an ordained minister is governed by state law, which holds great importance when it comes to officiating weddings. According to Florida Statutes Section 741.07, individuals who are ordained or licensed ministers of the gospel, priests, or other ecclesiastical officers are authorized to solemnize marriages. This includes those who have been ordained through reputable online ordination programs. Therefore, you don’t need to register with any government office as a wedding officiant.
The only requirement is to complete the marriage license in the presence of the couple and any required witnesses. Additionally, you’ll have the honor of reading the Declaration of Intent to the couple, ensuring their voluntary entrance into the sacred bond of marriage. Finally, within a specified timeframe, typically 10 days after the ceremony, the completed marriage license should be returned to the county clerk’s office.
While Florida doesn’t impose specific state-mandated criteria for ordination, it’s important to note that individual religious organizations and denominations may have their own requirements. For those seeking ordination through CLI and CLA, the journey entails:
a. Education and Training: Enroll in the Christian Leaders Institute and complete the required courses and training modules, which will provide you with a solid foundation in ministry. Rest assured, CLI offers flexible online programs accommodating your unique schedule and preferences.
b. Ordination Process: After completing your education and training, you can apply for ordination through the Christian Leaders Alliance. This process may involve providing a local endorsement and completing a minister profile, reflecting your dedication to the sacred calling of ministry.
c. Wedding Officiant Authorization: Once ordained through CLA, you’ll have legal authority to perform weddings in Florida. To ensure a smooth process, it’s advisable to consult with the county clerk’s office in the county where the ceremony will take place. They can provide any additional local requirements or registration procedures.
EXPAND YOUR MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY
The Christian Leaders Institute (CLI):
We are thrilled to introduce the Christian Leaders Institute, a warm and welcoming online educational platform that provides free ministry and ordination training programs. Our mission is to make theological education accessible to individuals from all backgrounds, empowering them to deepen their understanding of Christianity and prepare for various ministry roles. Our comprehensive courses cover a wide range of subjects, including biblical studies, theology, church history, leadership, and pastoral care.
The Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA):
Through our partnership with the Christian Leaders Alliance, we offer an ordination program for individuals who have completed CLI’s training and courses. The Christian Leaders Alliance has been empowering ministers since 2014 and has ordained thousands of individuals. By joining CLA, you will receive formal recognition and authorization as an ordained minister, allowing you to perform weddings and other religious ceremonies in Florida, in accordance with state law.
By enrolling in the Christian Leaders Institute and participating in the Christian Leaders Alliance program, you will join a vibrant and compassionate community of fellow ministers. We are here to support, encourage, and walk alongside you on your ministry journey in Florida. Our warm and inclusive atmosphere will ensure that you feel welcomed and valued as you pursue your calling.
Together, let’s embrace the beauty of serving others in the great state of Florida. Take the first step towards ordination and expand your ministry opportunities by joining the Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance today.
GET STARTED AT CLI
GET STARTED AT CLI
To enroll in the program, follow these steps:
- Create a free study account with the Christian Leaders Institute and get familiar with the Study.christianleaders.org platform.
- Enroll in the Christian Wedding Officiant Skills course and commence your training.
- After completing the Skills course, you will enroll in the Licensed Christian Wedding Officiant Recognition Class. This class recognizes your online training and completes your ordination into a local geographic endorsement-based ordination credential. You will be listed in the Christian Leaders Alliance Directory, and you may order your ordination credentials. You are eligible to register a local ministry at a Soul Center.
VARIOUS OPPORTUNITIES
Beyond the realm of wedding officiation, the Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance support a wide range of ministerial roles, catering to individuals with diverse commitments, availability, and areas of interest. Let’s explore some of the core ministerial roles available: (There are over 30 specializations that will pair – Click here)
- Wedding Officiant: This introductory role equips you with the skills to confidently guide couples throughout their journey, from the first meeting to their magical wedding day. The program typically requires approximately 10 hours of study and the submission of one recommendation. It serves as the foundation for all other roles.
- Field Minister: If you have limited study time but an ardent desire to engage in church work, this program is tailored to you. It offers free and mini-courses for lay ministers, church elders, and deacons.
- Licensed Minister: This program is perfect for part-time ministers seeking further training. Through 13 study credits and six mini-courses, you’ll enhance your ministerial skills and enrich your service.
- Coaching Minister: This program provides two free coaching courses for those fascinated by coaching methods and their integration into ministry. Additionally, you’ll embark on a journey of 15 credits and six mini-courses, further empowering your ministerial outreach.
- Licensed Ministry Chaplain: If you aspire to volunteer as a chaplain in local institutions like fire departments or veteran groups, this program is designed for you. Complete 18 credits and six mini-courses, and step into your valuable role as a ministry chaplain.
- Ordained Minister: Geared towards individuals already involved in ministry work or those seeking comprehensive training and credentials, this program combines 21 credits and seven mini-courses. It provides the ultimate foundation for your ministry journey.
Welcome to a transformative journey of ministry in Florida! If you feel called to serve and aspire to become an ordained minister, the Christian Leaders Institute and Alliance programs offer a comprehensive pathway to help you fulfill your goals. Enrolling in CLI and completing their courses will equip you with theological knowledge and essential training to serve confidently. You’ll gain the legal authority to officiate weddings and explore diverse ministerial roles within the Christian Leaders Alliance through ordination with CLA. Embrace this transformative journey, impact your faith community meaningfully, and joyfully answer your divine calling to serve others.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How is the Christian Leaders Institute funded? Christian Leaders Institute is funded through a “Give It Forward” Approach. Click here to read more.
Can I register my church or religious society under the banner of Christian Leaders Alliance? Yes. Locally registered Soul Centers are being register all over the world. Click here to read more.
Can I receive a College degree after I enroll at Christian Leaders Institute?
At Christian Leaders Institute, our college degrees are offered through our Leadership Excellence School. We provide access to both Associate Degrees and Bachelor Degrees. To begin our degree program, you must first enroll as a student in our School of Christian Development. Every student starts by creating a study account at the Christian Development school. Once you complete the “Getting Started” class, you can proceed to enroll in our Leadership Excellence School, where our degree programs are hosted.. Click here to set up you account.
This degree is ideal for those who desire to pursue their Master’s Degree with one of our partner Seminaries like North Point Bible College and Seminary, Kairos University, Calvin, Western, Northern, and more.
Christian Leaders Institute is your access or gateway many professional ministry opportunity.
