Credentialed clergy throughout MC USA are responsible for participating in a Healthy Boundaries Training. This 7-8 hour training identifies the complexity of the relationships we have in our ministries and provides essential understandings and practical ways to manage these relational and ethical boundaries with integrity and faithfulness. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance our ministries through tending to appropriate, safe and healthy boundaries.
The Central District Conference Ministerial Committee is expecting all credentialed clergy who are actively serving in ministry to complete a Healthy Boundaries Training. All clergy new to CDC are expected to complete the training one year after beginning their ministry. Refresher courses will be required every three years following the initial training. Each congregation is encouraged to send a lay leader for training as well. an elder, deacon, PCRC member, council member or other leader might be considered.
Recognizing that those serving in chaplaincy, educational settings or other non-congregational ministries may have similar requirements from their employer, we are not requiring you to repeat this training as long as it addresses similar content to that presented by FaithTrust Institute. You are required to provide documentation regarding such training. Specifically, training topics include:
- Christian Biblical and Theological Foundations for Maintaining Boundaries
- Boundary Basics for Clergy and Spiritual Teachers
- Dating, Friendships, and Dual Relationships
- The Pulpit, Transference, Hugging and Touch, Intimacy
- Preserving Boundaries: Personal and Professional Health
- Understanding Cultural Differences Related to Boundaries
CDC Healthy Boundaries Training
In addition to an overview of establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in ministry, the course will include trauma-informed responses to critical incidents, self-care, and an overview of safe-church policies.
There are no courses scheduled at this time. Please check back later and check the availability of courses posted on the MC USA website in the link below.
Mennonite Church USA Healthy Boundaries Training
Healthy Boundaries Trainings across MC USA are available. See a schedule and register here.
Request for Recognition of Alternative Healthy Boundaries Training
Central District Conference Healthy Boundaries Training Policy
Request for Recognition of Alternative Training for Healthy Boundaries
This form is to be used by Central District Conference clergy serving outside of congregational-based ministry and who are requesting recognition for training received in lieu of Healthy Boundaries Training as provided by CDC and MC USA. You may fill out the form below or download the request form.
Request for Recognition of Alternative Training for Healthy Boundaries
Please provide documentation of your participation in the training event such as one of the following:
- a copy of a certificate of completion
- registration receipt along with event description
- other documentation which demonstrates your participation in the training event
When completed, return this form and supporting documentation to the Central District Conference office at PO Box 1199, Goshen, IN 46527-1199 or email to confmin@mcusacdc.org.
