Life Pacific University is excited to announce the launch of its new NextGen Certificate program, now available online. This accessible and self-paced program is designed to equip and empower leaders who are called to disciple and mentor the next generation through Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered ministry.
The NextGen Certificate courses taught by a variety of experienced leaders offer a comprehensive framework that blends spiritual formation, practical ministry strategies, and leadership development. Learners will be developed to cultivate a strong personal foundation in Christ, develop healthy ministry rhythms, and implement effective approaches to engage young people in a way that is both culturally relevant and theologically sound. The content also emphasizes the importance of emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being, preparing leaders for long-term impact and sustainability in ministry.
“We recognize the growing need for trained leaders who can effectively reach and disciple today’s youth,” said Sara Huson, VP of Enrollment Management at Life Pacific University. “The NextGen Certificate program is a dynamic, accessible pathway for equipping leaders with the tools, vision, and heart to shape the future of the Church.”
“I believe that NextGen leaders who are trained and equipped to reach and disciple young people are key to the future of the Church,” said Natalie Werking. “By spending time learning and growing, we’re able to discover how the Holy Spirit is leading us to minister more effectively to kids, teens, and young adults — that a generation would know and follow Jesus!”
Dan Britton, Western District NextGen Coordinator, shared, “LPU’s NextGen Certificate is exactly what leaders need to thrive in ministry and impact the culture for Christ. If you are a new leader or seasoned veteran, this certificate will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective NextGen leader. When I heard LPU was offering a NextGen Certificate, it made me cheer inside. Knowing that leaders can go through a program to develop new skills and grow in their giftedness gives me hope that our NextGen ministries will be in good hands. This is going to be a power tool in anyone’s leadership arsenal.”
“This certificate brings together a collective of experienced leaders who share their wisdom, insights, and best practices,”added President Angie Richey. “We are deeply grateful for their voices and the time they have invested in shaping this invaluable tool for growth. Whether you are a young leader stepping into your calling, a parent guiding the next generation, or a full-time pastor leading with vision, this resource is designed to strengthen, equip, and inspire you to reach the generations.”
Certificate Courses:
• Course 1: Personal Life of the NextGen Leader focuses on the spiritual and personal development of leaders, ensuring they are rooted in Christ and equipped to raise up new leaders.
• Course 2: Effective Biblical Teaching prepares students to interpret and teach Scripture in a way that is relevant to today’s culture, helping the next generation develop a strong theological foundation.
• Course 3: Models of NextGen Ministry explores various ministry approaches, allowing students to learn from successful models and adapt them to their unique contexts.
• Course 4: Healthy Dynamics emphasizes the importance of emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical well-being, ensuring leaders and their ministries can flourish long-term.
Professor and Guest Speakers:
- Ty Austin, Foursquare Atlantic NextGen Coordinator
- Dr. Tim Lee, Chair of Theology & Ministry at LPU
- Dawn Jackson, Chief of Staff at Equip & Empower Ministries
- Dan Fernandez, LPU Campus Chaplain
- Jen Thigpenn, Foursquare Western Multiethnic Ministry Coordinator
- Dr. AJ Swoboda, Theologian, Professor, Author
- Dan Britton, Foursquare Western NextGen Coordinator
- Dr. Jeff Tolle, Dean of the School of Theology & Ministry at LPU
- Natalie Werking, Director of CB Gospel Box at Foursquare Missions Press
- Kurt Fuller, Lead Pastor of The Warehouse
- Russell Joyce, Director of Foursquare Multiply
- Marcus Robinson, Dean of Students at LPU
- Marcus Ellington, Foursquare Pastor
- Tami Jones, Foursquare Central District NextGen Coordinator
- Wendy Suarez-Ramos, Foursquare Hispanic NextGen Coordinator
Affordable and self-paced, this certificate is ideal for current and aspiring youth, children, and family ministry leaders who desire to grow in their calling and capacity to serve. Enrollment is now open.
For more information or to apply, visit lifepacific.edu/nextgen.
