ICS & Thirdmill
ICS has partnered with The Thirdmill Institute to offer robust theological education for those discerning their call to the diaconate; priests and deacons in need of continuing education credit; licensing of lay ministers; and those seeking Christian education for personal or group formation.
Individual classes in three Thirdmill certificate programs are available online. Students who complete all certificate program classes will earn a Diploma in Christian Ministry from Thirdmill.
Certificate Programs
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.
If you have any questions, please email Archdeacon Altenbach at jaltenbach@cfdiocese.org.
Diaconal Formation
Those discerning a call to the diaconate in the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida are required to complete Thirdmill certificate program courses combined with in-person classes taught by ICS diaconal faculty.
ICS recognizes that effective learning extends beyond online resources, so our diaconal faculty provide the necessary in-person components of learning; fostering small group discussions and practicums where students can discuss, apply, and integrate their learning into ministry. This holistic approach ensures that ICS students receive a strong theological education with an emphasis on practical application.
Should a diaconal aspirant complete the certificate programs and not become a postulant, she/he will still earn a Diploma in Christian Ministry from Thirdmill. Certificate programs are included in the ICS semester tuition.
If you have any questions, please email Archdeacon Altenbach at jaltenbach@cfdiocese.org.
Continuing Education
Priests & Deacons
Thirdmill offers a range of high-quality online classes for priests and deacons in the Diocese of Central Florida who are seeking to fulfill their yearly continuing education requirements. These classes provide an excellent opportunity to deepen biblical and theological knowledge. For class suggestions and registration, contact Archdeacon Altenbach.
If you have any questions, please email Archdeacon Altenbach at jaltenbach@cfdiocese.org.
Licensed Lay Ministry & Christian Education
Thirdmill certificate program classes are also rich opportunities for lay people who do not feel called to ordained ministry but still want to enhance their theological understanding through a comprehensive learning platform. In this program, ICS students benefit from Thirdmill’s online classes, which are convenient for distance-students with busy schedules.
Upon completion of all certificate program classes, students will earn a Diploma in Christian Ministry from Thirdmill and will have a solid foundation for lay ministry. For more information and to discuss class options, contact Archdeacon Altenbach.
If you have any questions, please email Archdeacon Altenbach at jaltenbach@cfdiocese.org.