Training Program
Training every generation to be more deeply-rooted disciples.
The Training Program is the flagship program of the Central Institute. It is a one-year discipleship program that simultaneously explores the Bible, theology, and spiritual formation. And its carefully-crafted curriculum and transformational learning environment are custom-designed to make the Bible and theology accessible to every Christian.
F O U N D A T I O N S
Every aspect is designed to equip you in these key areas:
- Christian Story
We’ll spend the year working through the Bible to develop a deep awareness of the story of Scripture and to help you find your place in God’s story. - Christian Belief
We’ll study the historic beliefs and core convictions of Christianity that emerge from the Bible and are foundational for all followers of Jesus. - Christian Formation
We’ll practice the basic habits and disciplines that shape the Christian life and help fuel and form us into the kind of people God has designed us to be in Christ.
B A S I C S
Here are some of the key practical details:
- Program Duration
The program lasts one year, with a fall semester (Sep–Dec) and a spring semester (Jan–May). It meets in the Grand Room on Wednesdays from 6:00–7:30pm. - Weekly Schedule
Each week will begin with song and a reading to orient our hearts, continue with cohort discussion and formation exercises around your table, and culminate with a lecture taught by Daniel Patterson and Q&A. - Cost
The Training Program costs $500, but we are offering it at a significant discount: $380 for Central members, $190 for college students, and $2000 for the Seminary Track. For non-members (or any accepted outside of Central) the cost is $600, or $2500 for the Seminary Track. These fees cover the cost of materials, books, guest speakers, and seminars.
D I S T I N C T I V E S
Here’s what makes the Training Program different than other church environments you might have experienced:
- Intentionality
The Training Program isn’t for super scholars. It is for everyday Christians who want to grow. Every single aspect of it—from the carefully-crafted curriculum to intentionally-structured cohorts—has been custom-designed to grow you as a Christian in community.
- Expectations
You should commit 2–3 hours outside of class per week. The Training Program offers more but asks a bit more too. Most adult church curriculum is written at an eighth-grade level. We think people are hungry for more. So we go deeper and ask participants to commit—to attendance, assignments, and reading—for their good. - Seminary Credit
There is a Seminary Track available for those who want to complete extra work for credit towards a master’s degree. Participants can receive 24 hours of seminary credit through a partnership with both Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.