Description...
The First Year program is designed to provide young adults the opportunity to focus on
intimacy with Christ and to minister to others through service. LITES is
not the typical "sit in the classroom" training program. We strive to
model Christ in ALL things, including teaching. In Christ's teaching
ministry with the twelve disciples, He not only taught them lessons verbally, but He also modeled what He expected
of them, "sent them out", and "took them aside." This model includes
learning activities both inside and outside the classroom with the goal of
producing what LITES calls "Heart" and "Hand" Knowledge - the knowledge of
God in such a way that it is not merely in our heads, but lived out in our
desires, attitudes, worldview, and activities.
Inside the classroom, the students are trained in the development of
their own personal walk with Christ through instruction, example,
and practice. This equips the students to minister to others through
their own example, lifestyle, actions, and work. Outside the classroom,
students are placed in a variety of service roles that are church and
community related in order to learn the importance and fulfillment of
serving God through serving others.
Typical Day...
Each day begins with approximately one hour of worship, individual and
corporate. This is the backbone of the day. Without close communion with
our Master, we will not be attuned for further learning. It is essential
that "head knowledge" be turned into "heart and hand" knowledge for our
lives to be permanently molded by the Master.
Most mornings worship is followed by three class sessions, covering topics
that help us to examine and grow in our relationship with Christ. There are
a number of books that will be provided for essential background information.
These will be discussed both for informational content and application to
daily living, but the key text is the Bible, which we will read completely
during the year.
Afternoon schedules are built around practical application of learning and
hands-on service ministry opportunities. Developing Christ's heart and mind
for service is key in any ministry opportunity. During these times, team
members will have opportunity to serve in numerous program, church, and
community volunteer settings, among other things.
Curriculum...
A typical training year is nine months long. The topics to be covered during
the year are selected from the topic categories listed below. As in all things, we seek to be guided by the Holy Spirit
so the selection of topics may vary according to God's guidance and direction.
Dispelling Lies & Establishing Truth
The Healthy Self
Victory in Christ
The Spiritual Nature of Life's Battles
Historical Impacts of Evolutionary Thought and Teaching
Worldviews
Gifts and Unity of the Body
What is Worship?
Developing Christ-like Character & Perspective
Developing a Biblical Perspective on Romance and Relationships
Character Counts!
Living in the Presence of God
Guarding Your Tongue
Brokenness and Submission
Humility
Calling/Crying Out to God
Faith Lessons in Biblical History
Stewards of God's Resources
Walking in the Light
Seeking God's Blessing
Discipline or Pruning?
Pursuing God's Vision for Your Life
Missiology
Personal Evangelism
Senior Appreciation
The year also includes daily Bible and devotional reading, scripture
memorization, spiritual disciplines practicum, service ministries practicum,
mentoring sessions, and ministry outings (as appropriate to group - i.e.
retreats, Fellowship Sabbaths, etc.).
Cost...
The cost for the First Year program is $4500 for the full nine months
of ministry training, plus a $25 non-refundable application fee.
