Through its longstanding partnerships with The Duke Endowment, the North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, and the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, the Divinity School has created a wide array of programs and initiatives designed to strengthen and enhance the lives and ministries of United Methodists. Also see our ecumenical clergy and laity training programs.

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Advanced Course of Study
The Course of Study for Ordained Ministry is an alternate educational program for persons seeking to serve as pastors in United Methodist congregations.
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Course of Study at Duke Divinity School
The Course of Study for ordained ministry has been established by the Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church as an alternate educational route for persons seeking to serve as pastors in United Methodist congregations.
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United Methodist Full Connection Writing Retreat
This theological workshop helps United Methodists participating in the ordination process prepare for their ordination papers and board interviews.
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Convocation & Pastors' School
Sunday, October 9, 2022 (All day) to Tuesday, October 11, 2022 (All day)
In 2022, the annual Convocation & Pastors’ School will return from October 9-11 as an in-person event designed for Christian leaders of all traditions.
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Convocation on the Rural Church
The Convocation on the Rural Church is an annual opportunity for pastors from the North Carolina and Western North Carolina Conferences of the United Methodist Church to join with Duke Divinity School and The Duke Endowment to discuss issues that are important in transforming rural churches and communities and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
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WNCC Elders' Event: Holy Leadership
This annual gathering, which alternates between a "day apart" and a multi-day retreat, is an opportunity to celebrate the connection of elders in the Western North Carolina Conference.

Upcoming UMC Training & Programs Events

Rediscovering the Heart of Methodism: Nurturing Entrepreneurial Mindsets
Monday, October 11, 2021 (All day) to Friday, June 30, 2023 (All day)
2022 Course of Study – Session 4 (June 27 – August 6)
Monday, June 27, 2022 (All day) to Saturday, August 6, 2022 (All day)
Part of Events Series: Course of Study at Duke Divinity School
Convocation & Pastors' School
Sunday, October 9, 2022 (All day) to Tuesday, October 11, 2022 (All day)