Academy of Parish Clergy

This week I attend my first annual meeting of the Academy of Parish Clergy. The Academy began in the 1968 with a grant from the Lilly Endowment to explore issues of leadership development for parish clergy. Since its founding the APC has created standards for clergy continuing education, offered continuing education and development conferences, and have advocated the importance of continuing growth and standards of excellence for clergy.

This year's conference was on the topic of clergy health. The conference had excellent speakers, meaningful worship, and opportunities to connect with clergy of many different denominations from around the country. Soon the APC will be developing a new web presence. But, a lot of good information is still available at the current site located here.

The APC also is creates a top ten list of the best books of the year for parish clergy and gives an annual book of the year award. In addition the APC produces a journal with helpful articles and book reviews.

If you are serving in parish ministry I hope that you'll considering checking out the Academy of Parish Clergy!

Timothy Bonney, APC