Class Schedule
Deb Williamson
Priest
Spokane Valley, WA
What is priesthood?
"Priesthood is a sacred covenant involving the highest form of stewardship of body, mind, spirit, and relationships. The priesthood shall be composed of people of humility and integrity who are willing to extend themselves in service for others and for the well-being of the faith community."
- 08/25/26 - Covenant Principles for Faithful Priesthood Ministry
- 09/01/26 - Friend to All
- 09/08/26 - Through Identifying and Sharing Giftedness
- 09/15/26 - Families Encountering Life's Journey
- 09/22/26 - Sacramental Ministries
- 09/29/26 - Active Listening
- 10/06/26 - Advocating for Peace & Justice
- 10/20/26 - Support and Partner with Others
- 10/27/26 - Ministry Plan & Caring for Self
Meet Your Facilitators
Learn More About Priesthood in Community of Christ
faQ'S
Who is this class for?
This class is for anyone who has been called to the office of Priest, whether you are preparing for ordination or have already been ordained. If you have been serving as a priest for a while and would like a refresher, reconnect with your calling, or explore how priesthood ministry is changing, you are welcome.
When will the class meet?
We will meet for nine sessions, every Tuesday at 7:00 pm Pacific / 8:00 pm Mountain, beginning August 25.
What will we talk about?
We'll use the Ministry of the Priest Temple School manual as our foundation while also exploring what priesthood ministry looks like today. Topics will include spiritual formation, active listening, preaching and worship, pastoral care, relationships with pastors, discovering and sharing our gifts, and finding meaningful ways to minister both within and beyond congregational life.
Do I need to purchase the book?
You need to have access to the Ministry of the Priest manual, either as a PDF or physical book. You can purchase a copy, borrow one from your congregation, or use another copy that is available to you. If you need help securing a book, please let us know and we'll get one to you. We want access to the material to be easy, not a barrier to participating.
What if I'm not sure what priesthood ministry looks like for me?
That's exactly the kind of question we hope you'll bring! Priesthood is a calling, and there isn't one single way to live it out. We'll spend time exploring the gifts, experiences, and contexts that shape each person's ministry.
Will this just be a traditional Temple School class?
Not exactly. We'll use the official curriculum as our foundation, but we'll also make room for conversation, reflection, spiritual practices, and discussion about ministry in the world we live in now. The manual itself encourages spiritual practices and active participation as part of the learning experience.
Are pastors invited?
Yes! Pastors are invited to participate alongside those preparing for or serving in the office of Priest. We especially want to explore how priests and pastors can build meaningful relationships and partnerships that strengthen ministry in the congregation and beyond.
What if I can't make every session?
Please talk with us if you anticipate missing a session. We know life happens, and we'll do our best to help you stay connected with the class. If you're taking the class for Temple School credit then you'll need to attend 80% of the sessions or make up missed ones with us.
What should I expect from the class?
Come ready to learn, ask questions, share your experiences, and listen to others. This is intended to be a space where we can grow together in our understanding of priesthood and encourage one another in ministry.
Explore Ministry and Priesthood resources on cofchrist.org or the Priesthood section on latter-dayseekers.org.
Faith Unfiltered Podcasts Episodes
- Priesthood in Community of Christ with Janné Grover
- Women's Ordination in Community of Christ | The Call
- Ordination with Nancy Ross & Brittany Mangelson
Policy Updates on Priesthood and Personal Relationships from Community of Christ.
Watch Ministry and Priesthood in Community of Christ, a video from our friends at Greater Pacific Northwest Mission Center, which explains the different priesthood offices.
Laura Pennock
Zoom link and class information will be emailed to those who register by Friday August 21st.
Brianna Potts
Priest
Richland, WA
Ministry of the Priest
Priests share ministry of presence and model Jesus as friend by being a spiritual friend to individuals, families, and community.
What does it mean to be a priest today? Join us for a nine-week journey exploring priesthood as a ministry of presence, compassion, and relationship. Whether you're preparing for ordination or have served for years and want to renew your sense of call, this class will help you grow in practical ministry, spiritual formation, and faithful leadership. Together we'll explore how the timeless calling of the priest comes to life in today's world within congregations, online, and in the communities where we live, work, and serve. Based on the Ministry of the Priest Temple School curriculum, this course also includes conversation, mentoring, and shared learning from experienced priests.
Class begins on Tuesday, August 25 and continues for nine weeks, skipping October 13. We'll meet on zoom at 7:00 pm Pacific / 8:00 pm Mountain.