Diaconate Courses

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.

After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on Bible Foundations, students will participate in a practicum designed to demonstrate their understanding of God’s purpose and the unity of the Old and New Testaments. This practicum will provide hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge and showcase their ability to connect theological concepts across both testaments. Students will also learn how to apply these teachings in their personal lives and ministry, enhancing their practical and spiritual growth.

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.

Students will look at what elements need to be included in the presentation of the Gospel. They will discuss and practice sharing their own testimony as part of that presentation.

Pre-Class Reading: Evangelism & The Sovereignty of God  By J.I. Packer and The Great Dechurching By Jim Davis and Michael Graham

This course explores the integral role of the Book of Common Prayer (BCP) within the Episcopal Church. Participants will delve into the historical development, theological foundations, and practical applications of the BCP, examining how it shapes worship, beliefs, and church structure. The course will provide a comprehensive overview of the liturgical and sacramental practices outlined in the BCP, including its influence on the daily life of the church and its members.

Each participant will need to have a Book of Common Prayer (1979) with them during class.

After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on New Testament Foundations, students will participate in a practicum designed to demonstrate their understanding of the New Testament as foundational texts. By the end of this course, participants will not only gain a thorough understanding of the Gospels and Acts but also be inspired to actively participate in the growth and extension of God’s kingdom especially as it relates to ministry.

Students will understand the origins and organization of The Episcopal Church, and trace the history of the Church from Apostolic times to the present, including the Judaic roots of the church. Students will learn to describe the beliefs, worship, and structure of the Episcopal Church.

Students will continue to understand the origins and organization of The Episcopal Church, and trace the history of the Church from Apostolic times to the present, including the Judaic roots of the church. Students will learn to describe the beliefs, worship, and structure of the Episcopal Church.

This course prepares Year One students for the externship requirement and for a sustained life of prayer and service. Students learn the purpose, expectations, and process of the externship, and they explore the Rule of Life as a framework for ordering prayer, study, rest, relationships, and service, drawing on the work of Marjorie Thompson, Adele Calhoun, and Stephen Macchia. Grounded in the Baptismal Covenant (BCP, pp. 304–305), each student begins drafting a personal Rule of Life to sustain their discernment and future ministry.

The course will focus on the unique role of the deacon as a servant and proclaimer of the Gospel.   Participants will explore the theological foundations, practical skills, and pastoral sensibilities necessary for effective preaching and homiletics within the Episcopal tradition. Emphasizing the deacon’s distinctive voice and mission, the course will cover sermon preparation, delivery techniques, and the integration of liturgy and social justice in preaching. Through lectures, discussions, and practical exercises, participants will develop the confidence and competence to proclaim the Word of God faithfully and compelling.

Pre-Class Reading: The Hardest Sermons You’ll Ever Have to Preach  By Bryan Chapell and A Knock at Midnight By Martin Luther King, Jr.

This course is designed to help participants articulate their call to ministry by identifying and utilizing their spiritual gifts. Through a combination of self-assessment, interactive workshops, and guided reflections, participants will gain a deeper understanding of their unique strengths and how they can be applied in various ministry contexts. This hands-on experience will empower individuals to confidently express their calling and develop a personalized plan for effective ministry.

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.

Participants will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate conflicts and establish healthy boundaries in their ministry. This will enable them to manage conflicts gracefully and maintain healthy boundaries, ensuring effective and sustainable ministry leadership, all grounded in a thorough understanding of scriptural principles.

After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on Christology, students will participate in a practicum designed as an advanced follow-up. This course will offer hands-on experience that will help students deepen their theological understanding, enhance their ability to teach crucial doctrines, and apply biblical teachings. They will discuss and clarify their understanding of the doctrine of the Trinity.

After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on New Testament, students will participate in a practicum designed to provide a hands-on, immersive experience unpacking the content learned. The participants will engage in practical exercises and reflective activities to deepen their understanding and application of the teachings in the New Testament.

Participants will develop skills and knowledge necessary to effectively prepare and lead a Bible study. The course will cover essential aspects of Bible study, leadership, including exegesis, lesson planning, group facilitation, and application of biblical principles. Participants will create an engaging and meaningful Bible study that fosters spiritual growth and community within their congregations. Participants will lead a Bible study before the beginning of their third year of classes at ICS.

After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on Pauline studies, participants will engage in a practicum designed to provide a practical application of the knowledge gained from the course that focuses on the apostle Paul and his letters. Participants will deepen their knowledge and understanding of Paul’s theology and teachings as they apply these insights to their future ministry.

This course provides comprehensive training on the Book of Occasional Services, equipping future deacons and licensed lay ministers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively utilize this resource in their ministry. The course will cover the services included in the Book of Occasional Services and their theological significance, practical application, and the role of the deacon or licensed lay minister leading and supporting these services.

Each participant will need to have a Book of Common Prayer (1979) and a Book of Occasional Services (2003) with them during class.

Fieldwork is a central part of the diaconal formation, offering opportunities to engage directly with the life of a parish and the wider community. In this orientation session, students will receive the Fieldwork Manual and detailed instructions on expectations, goals, and reporting requirements. Attention will be given to how fieldwork complements classroom learning, spiritual formation, and practical experience in diaconal ministry.

This course examines the distinctive identity and ministry of the deacon through Rosalind Brown’s Being a Deacon Today. Students explore the diaconate as a full and equal order. They study the deacon’s role as one sent by the bishop to serve at the threshold between the Church and the world, and the deacon’s particular ministry in the liturgy and in the community. Drawing on Brown’s Church of England perspective alongside the Ordination of a Deacon (BCP, pp. 537–547) and the canons of The Episcopal Church, students reflect on how the diaconal vocation is lived faithfully in parishes and communities today.

This course focuses on the vital skill of pastoral listening, a foundation of compassionate diaconal ministry. Participants will explore its theology and practice, develop skills to engage empathetically, and learn to create supportive, healing environments. Through lectures, role-play, and reflection, students will be equipped to listen well and respond effectively in their congregations and communities.

After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on Anthropology and Eschatology, students will participate in a practicum designed to provide practical application and deeper exploration of these critical theological areas. Participants will engage in hands-on activities, and reflective discussions to integrate the teachings into their personal lives and ministry contexts.

After successfully completing the Thirdmill course on Biblical Interpretation, students will participate in a practicum designed to offer hands-on experience in applying biblical interpretation principles to real-world ministry contexts. Participants will engage in practical exercises, collaborative projects, and reflective discussions designed to deepen their understanding of hermeneutics and enhance their ability to interpret Scripture responsibly and effectively.

Pre-Class Reading: The Word: How We Translate the Bible and Why It Matters By John Barton

This course explores the Catechism and Outline of Our Faith in the Book of Common Prayer as foundational guides to Anglican belief and practice. Students will examine how these texts shape personal discipleship and ministry, with particular focus on their role in forming deacons and licensed lay ministers. Participants will learn to articulate the faith clearly, connect doctrine with daily practice, and ground their ministries in the enduring truths of the Church.

Each participant will need to have a Book of Common Prayer (1979) with them during class.

This course equips students with practices and disciplines essential for sustaining spiritual health and effective ministry. Emphasizing self-awareness, emotional resilience, and pastoral empathy, students will explore tools for personal reflection and strategies for providing compassionate care to others. The course integrates theological insights with practical exercises to foster a deep, enduring connection to God and the communities served.

Pre-Class Reading: Sabbath- Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in Our Busy Lives By Wayne Muller

Additional Reading Suggestions: The Way of the Heart (The Spirituality of the Desert Fathers and Mothers) by Henri Nouwen and Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend

This course prepares Year Three students to lead effectively within the life of a parish under the authority of the rector or priest-in-charge. Students examine the deacon’s place among the clergy, vestry, and lay leaders. They learn to discern a congregation’s gifts and needs, and to plan, launch, and sustain ministries that equip the laity for service in the world. The course also addresses collaboration, communication, and accountability, including the deacon’s letter of agreement and annual reporting.

At ordination, the deacon is charged “to interpret to the Church the needs, concerns, and hopes of the world” (BCP, p. 543). The deacon stands at the threshold between the congregation and the community it serves. This course equips students to design and lead gatherings that welcome newcomers, neighbors, and those with no church connection. It also prepares them to follow up in ways that lead to lasting relationships. Students leave with a repertoire of event ideas, a planning method, and a complete event plan.

Students will view the canonically required video training on the canons. This course will further explore how to navigate the Canons of The Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Central Florida, why they matter for ordained ministry, and how they are amended.