Leading a congregation through an uncertain season is some of the most challenging work in ministry. These trainings grew out of years of ministry with leaders and congregations in exactly those moments, and bring practical tools and honest conversation to bear on the questions that don't have easy answers.
These offerings were developed through a partnership between Dialog Works and Wartburg Theological Seminary and shaped by leaders from ELCA synods across the Midwest.
Online Training
Available now.
Work at your own pace.
Practical Tools for the Journey
For leaders ready to look honestly at what their congregation is facing. This training offers tools for reading the local situation clearly, ways to listen for the congregation's own mission and hopes, and a path through the full spectrum of faithful possibilities open to them.
Ending with Grace
For leaders walking with a congregation that may be approaching the end of its ministry. Through the grief, the legal realities, and the question of what it means to close well.
Leaders Retreat
For those working alongside congregations in transition.
A New Chapter in Ministry Retreat
A two-and-a-half-day retreat for those helping congregations explore shared and collaborative ministry. Hands-on, intensive, and grounded in real situations.
This retreat is designed for leaders working alongside congregations navigating significant transitions. Using William Bridges' framework for understanding change, participants develop skills to facilitate difficult conversations, build trust between congregations, and guide communities toward shared ministry models that preserve identity while opening new possibilities.
The retreat moves through transition dynamics, shared ministry covenants, governance structures, and conflict navigation — with practice built in at every stage through case studies and simulation.
Led by Rev. Peter Soli and Rev. Dr. Mark Yackel-Juleen.