Students value their MEADS experience

Completion of the certificate for MEADS represents 240 hours of classroom participation over several years, in addition to hundreds of hours of reading, reflection, and preparation of assignments. It is a substantial commitment of time and resources by the student and the church in order to prepare ministers for faithful, accountable service.

When asked which MEADS course taught him the most, Jim Danielson of Davison, Michigan, said, “Community of Christ Scriptures. How we got the Book of Mormon and how it was dictated. I always thought it was written in chronological order. (The MEADS) courses reinforce each other.”

Jenny Hedman of Shingle Springs, California, felt the Hebrew scriptures class helped her understand the culture and historical background of the Old Testament better.

Jenn Killpack remarked following her first MEADS session:

It will be hard to express in words the depth of my gratitude for what was shared during MEADS classes. I was apprehensive going into these classes because I’ve been out of the classroom for so long. I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that I learned a ridiculous amount from both the New Testament class and the theology class.

After reading the books and attending the theology class all week, I was elated to discover that there are whole theological philosophies that support/define what it is I believe. I also was reassured that I do have ministry to share and this gave me an incredible boost in my confidence.

The New Testament materials and class time opened the scriptures to me in a whole new way. Honestly I was entirely frustrated when I would sit down and try to just read the Bible. Being exposed to the exegetical method and all the resources available to assist a person in their study was like breaking out of a cocoon and feeling the breeze on my wings for the first time.

 MEADS students: Want to share your thoughts?  Send them to Judith Yager.