The Teaching UMC Theology and Doctrine course will provide faith formation leaders with basic knowledge of United Methodist theology and doctrine and how to apply it in ministry, so that they can effectively teach and lead others to grow in their knowledge and understanding of theology and doctrine in a United Methodist context. 

This course will provide an overview of United Methodist theology and doctrine, introduce and critically consider the sources of theological reflection, critically consider how theological reflection shapes our beliefs and our ministry, highlight the importance of considering United Methodist theology and doctrine when teaching and leading in ministry, and discuss effective methods for teaching theology and doctrine.

The course will consist of both synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities. 

February 2 - March 9


Synchronous Instruction Times:


Tuesdays @ 7:00pm CT

February 2, 9, 16, 23

March 2, 9

Cohort Groups


Participants working towards certification will join with others in a monthly cohort, led by an experienced facilitator. These 60minute cohort gatherings will provide guided reflection on current ministry as well as time for prayer and support.

Spiritual Renewal


Personal Spiritual Renewal is essential for effective faith formation leadership. We are hopeful that an in-person spiritual renewal retreat will be possible July 23-24, 2021. Plan to join us!

Instructor: Dr. Laceye Warner


Laceye Warner is the Royce and Jane Reynolds Associate Professor of the Practice of Evangelism and Methodist Studies and Associate Dean for Wesleyan Engagement and Hybrid Programs at Duke Divinity School. She is an ordained elder in the Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Dr. Warner’s research interests in the historical theology of evangelism seek to inform and locate contemporary church practices within the larger Christian narrative. These interests are reflected in two books published in 2007: Saving Women: Retrieving Evangelistic Theology and Practice (Baylor University Press) and The Study of Evangelism, co-edited with Dr. Paul Chilcote (Eerdmans Publishing Company).

She was a contributing editor to the Wesley Study Bible and completed a co-authored book with Bishop Kenneth Carder entitled Grace to Lead: Practicing Leadership in the Wesleyan Tradition, which was published in Fall 2010. Her most recent book is The Method of Our Mission: United Methodist Polity and Organization, published by Abingdon Press in 2014. Dr. Warner is the author of numerous reviews and articles for academic and ecclesial audiences and the recipient of scholarly and ecclesial grants. Her teaching areas include theology of evangelism, women’s ministry practices, and Methodist/Wesleyan studies.

Single course: $100

1 Year of Certification: $550/year

Includes 4 courses + monthly cohort + retreat

3 Year certification: $1,500 (if paid up front)

Includes 4 courses/year + monthly cohort + annual retreat

Questions about certification? Learn more here.

Scholarships are available.

Scholarship applications will be accepted until: January 19, 2021

Registration will close on: January 26, 2021


*Registration for this course is now closed. We will offer additional courses in the spring and summer - check back for updates!*