Cohorts are about community, learning, networking, resources, and “a space where I don’t feel so alone.”
Cohorts in the Michigan Conference offer leaders regular meeting times with others in similar positions or interests. They have made a profound impact on leaders in Michigan and beyond. Past cohort participants have described the cohorts as a place for “community and relationship with people who do the same thing,” “building networks and resources,” “developing self-confidence to try new things,” and “learning opportunities.” Please get in touch with Rev. Kathy Pittenger for more information.
In 2025, we will be offering short-term cohorts in the winter/spring and starting full-year cohorts in the fall to align with the school calendar.
Winter/Spring Cohorts will include:
- Spiritual Practices for Leaders – learn about and experience a different spiritual practice each month. Leaders TBD
- Book Study on The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt. Leader(s) TBD
- Adaptive Leadership in Faith Formation Ministries. Leader: Rev. Kathy Pittenger
Days and times for cohorts are TBD. If you are interested in using 2024 continuing education funds to register now, the form is available here. Should you be unable to participate in a cohort, the fee will either be returned (less e-fees) or applied to a future cohort. The cost for cohorts will be between $10-$50.
“The seasoned cohort has been God-sent. For many years, I wished to have a group that I could talk and share ideas with regarding Children’s Ministry. I have thoroughly enjoyed building a community with others in Christian Education. I look forward to continuing to work with the seasoned cohort for many more years.” – Becky Lorenz, Big Beaver UMC, Troy, MI
What’s Included?
All cohorts will be led by trained facilitators. The cost of the cohort helps to cover an honoraria for the facilitator. In 2025, cohort costs are subsidized by the Connectional Ministries budget from local church Ministry Shares to keep registration fees lower.
Faith Formation Leaders Cohort
Young Adult Vocational Discernment Cohort
Oct 2024-May 2025
Participants, ages post-high school 18 – 29, meet virtually to listen to who they are and how they might show up in the world in meaningful ways. Led by trained facilitators, day and times tbd. Contact Lisa Batten for more information.
Ministry with Gen Z Cohort
Possibility for Fall 24 – Spring 25
Facilitator – Lisa Batten
May include Gen Z and Gen Alpha
Contemplative Cohort
Meets on Zoom the third Thursday of each month, 1:30 pm eastern/12:30 central to practice contemplative prayer in various forms. Participants come when they are able and have varied experiences with contemplative prayer. Contact Lisa Batten for more information.
If you have a suggestion for a cohort or are interested in a listed cohort if it was offered at a different time, please contact Rev. Kathy Pittenger.
Questions?
Contact Rev. Kathy Pittenger