Centennial Ministry Certification provides a pathway for those who want more theological and practical ministry instruction. Courses will be taught by pastors and church leaders in our association. Our goal is to make sure everything we do is worthy your investment of time and resources.
Our Purpose: To equip men and women to serve God through serving His local church
The Need:
· Because God is still calling people to ministry
· Because not everyone needs or wants a seminary degree
· Because our churches need to raise people from within
· Because we have a responsibility to train those who are called
· Because an affordable, convenient, yet rigorous program is possible
Organization:
Four 8-week courses each year (quarter system)
Classes are one night a week, approximately 1 ½ hours long.
Courses will be held on Monday nights at First Baptist Church, Barnesville.
6:00 - 7:30 PM
7:45 - 9:15 PM
There are two types of certifications: General Ministry and Pastoral Pathway.
Seven core classes and five electives are required for certification (12 total)
Old Testament
New Testament
Church History
How to Read the Bible Better: Introduction to Hermeneutics
Theology I, II, or III
Missions & Evangelism
Ministry Practicum (choose one)
Pastoral Pathway Certification requires all the above plus:
Students must have a mentor
Preaching the Word
Discipleship
Ministry Practicum I & II
The cost will be $100 per course. Book costs should be kept under $40 per course.
Courses are all Pass/Fail.
Courses will be offered in rotation so students can start at any point.
Courses taken through Brewton Parker GBBI will count toward certification.
Mentors for students are highly recommended and required for Pastoral Pathway.
Courses
Old Testament
New Testament
Church History
How to Read the Bible Better: Introduction to Hermeneutics
Theology I, II, III
Missions & Evangelism
Ministry Practicums
The Calling
The Care of the Local Church
Guarding your Ministry
Leading the Local Church
Preaching the Word
Teaching the Word
Discipleship
Christian Worldview & World Religions
Leading Congregational Worship I & II
Apologetics
Christian Ethics
Other electives to be added as needed.
Calendar
Fall I 2025
August 4 - September 22, 2025
How to Read the Bible Better: Introduction to Hermeneutics, Instructor: Pastor Travis Graham
Syllabus is available by clicking the above link. Course Schedule can be found HERE.
Fall II 2025
October 6 - November 24, 2025
Church History, Instructor: Pastor Wesley Lassiter
Ministry Practicum I, Instructor TBD
Syllabi will be available here approximately 4 weeks before class starts
Spring I 2026
January 5 - February 23, 2026
Preaching the Word, Instructor: Pastor Eddie Johnson
Teaching the Word, Instructor: Dr. Mark Harris
Syllabi will be available here approximately 4 weeks before class starts
Spring II 2026
March 9 - April 27, 2026
Courses TBD
Syllabi will be available here approximately 4 weeks before class starts
Mentors
Mentors are recommended for all students and required for Pastoral Pathways.
Purpose: to provide accountability, support, and encouragement for students
Mentors for Pastoral Pathway students must be approved by CBA.
Students will be required to enlist his or her own mentor. They can ask for help from instructors if necessary.
Instructors should be made aware of who the student’s mentor is in order to include them in class communication.
Responsibilities of a mentor:
Meet with students regularly to discuss progress.
Provide encouragement and support
Hold student accountable to attend class and complete work
Help students stay on track for certification completion
Pray with and for the student regularly
Registration
Complete the following form.
Make payment using the link at the bottom of the form.
Be sure to check the syllabus for your class at least two weeks before class starts. There will probably be reading or other assignments due on the first day of class.
If you have any questions, please contact CBA at steve@centennialba.com or 706-647-4959.
