Crucible Class 17 Event 1: Introduction to Crucible, Self-Care, and Peer Spiritual Direction
CRUCIBLE is a structured, two-year academic initiative designed for provisional elders and deacons. This transformative program offers opportunities to grow spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally, challenging participants and their congregations to become vibrant, faithful communities equipped for ministry in the 21st century.
Participation in Crucible is a requirement set forth in The United Methodist Book of Discipline and by the Board of Ordained Ministry. It is expected that your local church or place of ministry will fully support your involvement by prioritizing your attendance at all retreats, seminars, and cohort gatherings.
Over the next two years, you will be assigned to a cohort group. These groups are organized geographically to reduce travel time for in-person meetings; however, virtual options are also acceptable. Active participation in Crucible fulfills your annual Continuing Education Unit (CEU) requirement.
Crucible offers a unique opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with a supportive community of colleagues. You will engage in shared learning, mutual encouragement, and collaborative growth—all critical elements in your preparation for ordained ministry. Each cohort is guided by experienced facilitators who will lead discussions, provide support, and help you navigate your path forward.
Your cohort will meet monthly from September through May. Some months will include required training sessions as outlined in the schedule below. Please mark these dates on your calendar now and avoid scheduling any conflicts. When training events occur, your cohort may gather as part of the session or choose to meet additionally.
Retreat events will be held at: West Ohio Conference Center
Hotel Accommodations:
Sheraton Hotel and Suites
201 Hutchinson Avenue
Columbus, OH 43235
Participants who live within 30 minutes of the venue may commute; however, please note that the schedule will not be adjusted to accommodate commuting, and there will be no cost reduction. Hotel accommodations are reserved for candidates only and are non-transferable. If you need to cancel a hotel reservation, please notify us as soon as possible.
Crucible Class 17 Event Schedule
1. Introduction to Crucible, Self-Care, and Peer Spiritual Direction: September 22- September 24, 2026
2. Process Communication & Emotional Intelligence: November 12–13, 2026
3. Trama-Informal Ministry & Pastoral Care: March 15–16, 2027
4. CRCC Leadership, Disability Theology, and Inclusive Ministry: September 22–23, 2027
5. Wesleyan Theology in Practice: November 11–12, 2027
6. Adaptive Leadership, Case Studies, and Missional Practice: March 14–15, 2028
7. Ohio Episcopal Area Newly Commissioned and Ordinand Retreat: Date to be determined by the West Ohio Episcopal Office
Event Preparation
Approximately two weeks before each session, you will receive an email from Mrs. Susan Thomas containing pre-reading and materials. These assignments generally require no more than two hours to complete and are essential for your engagement in the program.
Program Cost
The total cost of the two-year Crucible program is $600.00, payable in two installments of $300.00:
- First payment due: December 1, 2026
- Second payment due: December 1, 2027
Participants are encouraged to use their church’s educational allowance to cover these fees.
Important Reminders
Full participation in all Crucible events is mandatory. In early August 2026, you will receive additional information regarding registration, dietary needs, and any special accommodations.
We encourage you to fully commit to this journey and the sacred calling it represents. As you embark on this transformative experience, may you be reminded of Jesus’ words:
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Creator will give you.”
— John 15:16