Presbyterians Supporting Christian Education

Thanks for your interest in Presbyterians Supporting Christian Education. This program hopes to provide collegial, personal, and professional support for those engaged in ministry. In 2026, the program will provide two different types of cohorts: one for professional educators, volunteer educators, and pastors; the second for Commissioned Ruling Elders (CRE/CP), those persons serving as solo pastors in small congregations. Cohorts will meet together monthly for a year and will be guided by a facilitator. Click on the program description below for more information, and submit your application by November 30, 2025 for this innovative opportunity.

Union Presbyterian Seminary’s PSCE initiative continues to raise the profile of those serving
in all areas of Christian Education and has expanded to the support of those serving as CRE/CP (Commissioned Ruling Elder/Commissioned Pastor).

Commissioned Ruling Elder Cohorts
Christian Education Cohorts

Commissioned Ruling Elder Cohorts

The ministry of Commissioned Ruling Elder/Commissioned Pastor (CRE/CP) is a treasured aspect of service in the PCUSA. The purpose of the CRE/CP initiative, an expansion of the Presbyterians Supporting Christian Education (PSCE) program, is to strive to provide collegial, personal, and professional support through cohorts with others who are serving as a solo CRE/CP in a church.

Each participant must have a current commission in effect, serving as solo pastor in a congregation. Topics for engagement by participants may include spiritual disciplines and practices, seasonal needs in the church's program year (i.e., Advent, church school, Session meetings, educational opportunities), and the sharing of the needs and concerns of each participant. Preparation for meetings may include short reading assignments.

Christian Education Cohorts

For the sixth year, Union Presbyterian Seminary is providing a program of support and encouragement for Christian educators by providing cohorts. This program continues the legacy of the great institution, the Presbyterian School of Christian Education. Educators (lay and professional) and Ministers are invited to participate in one of the cohorts for the 2026 calendar year. The cohorts will meet monthly and will provide the following:

Collegial and collaborative experiences for participants.
Personal and professional opportunities for growth.
A sharing of resources for the educational ministry of the church.

CRE/CP Cohort Application

Educator Cohort Application

Program FAQ

What makes our cohorts unique?

Cohorts meet 10-12 times in a calendar year.
Stipends are paid to participants twice a year (total $500) to cover the cost of all materials for the cohorts.
Cohort meeting times, topics and formats are decided by those in the cohort. The cohort can choose to meet on a specific day each month, or change the day each month.
Facilitators are provided who are prepared to help with the administration of the cohort, and to help facilitate the work of the scheduled meetings.