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A Sample Schedule of Events (MS Excel)

A Sample Schedule of Events PDF

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2004 DMFE Group Photo

2005 DMFE Application

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIACONAL MINISTRY FORMATION EVENT (DMFE)?

The ELCA Division for Ministry and the ELCA Center for Diaconal Ministry Preparation (located at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg on behalf of the Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries) co-sponsor the Diaconal Ministry Formation Event. Successful completion of this event meets the formation event component requirement for approval as a diaconal ministry candidate.
 

COMPONENTS OF THE DMFE
A variety of learning and community building experiences will include lectures, reading, writing, small group and individual reflection, field trips to diaconal ministry sites and optional tutorials. Worship, spiritual formation and community life are central to the experience. The primary faculty members come from the Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries. Guest lecturers and ecumenical guests are also involved. There is time for relaxation and touring in the area during the weekend.
 

PURPOSE OF THE DMFE
 

The formation event is considered integral to the preparation of diaconal ministry candidates. Ideally the formation event precedes seminary study and will assist the candidate in shaping their course of study and field experience. Candidates will:

"study and explore the biblical, theological, historical and ecumenical roots and expressions of diaconal ministry;

examine current diaconal approaches and models for ministry in a variety
of settings through study and contextual site visits;

gain deeper understandings of Lutheran theology as it relates to all forms
of ministry, call and ecclesiology;

develop spiritual insights and disciplines for active ministry through worship, prayer and group processes designed for spiritual formation, development of community and mutual vision for diaconal ministry." (accepted by the Board of the Division for Ministry, Oct. 22-25, 1995)

WHO COMES TO A DMFE?

Participants in the DMFE come from each part of the country, and typically represent each of the 9 regions of the ELCA.   Each participant has, to date, discerned a call to serve as a diaconal minister.  However, a result of the experience might be additional roster clarification which leads a participant to discern the call to public ministry through service on another roster of the ELCA.

REQUIREMENTS OF THE DMFE

v      Positive Entrance- A positive entrance decision from a synod candidacy committee is required prior to attendance at the formation event.  However, an application to attend the Diaconal Ministry Formation Event may be submitted prior to an Entrance Interview. The Division for Ministry and the ELCA Center for Diaconal Ministry must receive a copy of a positive Entrance Decision prior a participant’s arrival at the formation event.  Currently rostered associates in ministry or pastors must apply as a candidate for diaconal ministry.

v      Residence- All participants are in residence at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg for housing and meals during the two-week event and attend all components.

v      Participation- Participation in the entire event is required.  Plan for complete focus on the event; personal business or work assignments will be difficult to accomplish.

v      Reading- A pre-event required reading list will be sent to all applicants with registration forms. 

ACADEMIC CREDIT

Participants may earn three academic graduate semester credit hours from Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg.  To receive credit, a 15 - 25 page paper is required following the completion of the event.  This paper is due by September 1. Specific information regarding this paper is sent with DMFE registration materials in May.

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