Bob Smietana: Training 'anytime, anywhere' via Ministry Grid ready for churches

LifeWay launches video-based service

Pastors know that well-trained lay leaders and volunteers are essential for the health of a local church.

But implementing a training strategy can be difficult, said Todd Adkins, director of leadership at LifeWay Christian Resources.

Enter MinistryGrid.com, a new site for online delivery of easy, affordable and high-quality training.

Ministry Grid features more than 2,000 original, readily accessible video sessions on topics from church leadership and finances to parking ministry and childcare.

The idea behind the site is to give churches a framework for their training programs, Adkins said, noting, "If you don't give people a framework, they won't grow."

In the past, local congregations sent volunteers to conferences or utilized denominational programs such as Training Union to equip church members for ministry, Adkins said.

"People used to take a week of vacation to attend training events like Sunday School week at Ridgecrest," he said. "They don't do that anymore."

Instead of sending volunteers or staff members to an event, Ministry Grid allows churches to bring the training to their people via computer, smartphone, tablet or other mobile device. There's also an app for off-line viewing.

"We want to focus on training being available anytime, anywhere," Adkins said.

However, Ministry Grid doesn't replace face-to-face training. Instead, the training model is based on the idea of a "flipped classroom" now common in colleges and high schools.

In this case, volunteers and church members learn by watching videos and reading resources on their own time. Then they'll be better prepared for in-person discussion.

It's all part of creating a culture where leadership training and personal development are a normal part of church life. Keep reading