ICS provides in-person and online courses developed for individuals discerning their call to ministry and those seeking Christian education for personal or group formation.
Featured Courses
Theological Foundations
Diaconate
February 1, 2025
After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on Theological Foundations, students will participate in a practicum designed to demonstrate their understanding of how theology flows from Scriptures and changes our hearts and lives. Students will learn how to analyze theological expressions, taking into account the aspects of orthodoxy and be able to articulate this understanding.
Biblical Studies: Old Testament Prophets
Diaconate
February 1, 2025
After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on Old Testament Prophets, students will build on that foundational knowledge and interpretive skills developed in the online course. The class will provide students with opportunities to deepen their understanding, enhance their teaching abilities, and apply the teachings of the prophetic books of the Bible. The students will be given scenarios that require applying prophetic teachings to contemporary issues.
Old Testament Foundations
Diaconate
February 22, 2025
After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on Old Testament Foundations, students will participate in a practicum designed to demonstrate their understanding of the Pentateuch, their original audience, and how we should respond to them today. Students will learn how to apply the teaching of the Pentateuch to living a life of faith and how to help others do the same.
ICS courses are approved by the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida for the continuing education of deacons and priests.
Those discerning a call to the diaconate in the Diocese of Central Florida receive high-quality biblical and theological training through a combination of in-person classes with faculty from the diocese and online certificate program courses through our Thirdmill partnership. In addition, online Thirdmill courses are available for those seeking general Christian education, licensed lay ministry, and for clergy seeking continuing education.
Foundations Certificate
The Foundations Certificate provides foundational courses in theology, as well as Old and New Testament.
Certificate in Biblical Studies
Our Certificate in Biblical Studies covers additional courses in the Old Testament and New Testament.
Certificate in Theological Studies
The Certificate in Theological Studies covers additional courses ranging from systematic theology to Christian ethics.
Deacons serve as a vital bridge between the Church and the world. They are ordained members of the clergy who embody Christ’s servant ministry within and beyond the Church. While priests are charged with shepherding God’s people, deacons are called to be agents of God’s compassion and reconciling grace in the world, while bringing the needs, hopes, and concerns of the world to the Church. Their role is unique, symbolizing Christ’s servanthood in the liturgy, the community, and in their advocacy for a just and caring society.
Learn more at our 2024 Conference on Ministry, Saturday, August 24, 10 a.m. at Church of the Messiah in Winter Garden. Hear presentations from the Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin S. Holcomb, diocesan staff, priests, deacons, and Commission on Ministry members. Contact Archdeacon Julie Altenbach to learn more.
Contact Us to Learn MoreHear From Past Students
We are so blessed in the Diocese of Central Florida. So many of the clergy in our diocese are extremely knowledgeable and amazing teachers. I am growing so much, not just in knowledge, but in faith!
Laura
The priests who facilitate the courses bring a deep understanding of the content and also a love of Christ and the Church. A nurturing spirit towards all the students is on full display.
Angela
ICS has not only given me the core knowledge I need in ministry training, but it has also been a great source of inspiration for my own personal growth. Every class I take has something big that I take away and apply.
Dan