Training for Preaching and Teaching

Mukhanyo continues to develop programmes to equip tent-making pastors and Christian teachers. At present, theological students have the opportunity to be both preachers and teachers – an effective form of tent-making ministry. In the past few years, four new education modules have been compiled, tested and refined, and made available to theological students.

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This development is a logical one for ministers, especially those whose congregations are not able to support them financially. The principle is rooted in the Apostle Paul, who supported himself by being a tentmaker (Acts 18:3, see also 20:34), while preaching in the synagogue every Sabbath and throughout the week.

A faithful minister who is also qualified to teach in a local school has an ideal opportunity to bring the gospel to children during the week.

Students at Mukhanyo enrolled for the Higher Certificate in Bible Teaching can now also choose four modules entitled “Becoming a Christian Teacher” (CE01-CE04). Additionally, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is being developed. Students who have completed a Bachelor of Theology (BTh) will be able to enrol for the PGCE to become qualified school teachers in South Africa.

Qualified ministers, who are also employed by local schools as teachers, would earn a salary during the week from a school, enabling them to be “tentmakers” to continue ministering in local churches.

For the past number of years, several North-West University education programmes have been facilitated at Mukhanyo. These programmes include an Advanced Certificate in Teaching, an Advanced Diploma in Education, a Diploma in Grade R Teaching, a Bachelor of Education degree and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. This has given Mukhanyo staff and lecturers a lot of experience in the field of teacher training. God willing, this experience will be used to continue developing teachers’ education qualifications.

The fact of the matter is that South Africa has a large shortage of qualified teachers, especially well-qualified Christian teachers. It is also a fact that many churches cannot financially support their pastors. Therefore, the training of pastors to be qualified Christian teachers is a benefit for them, their families and churches, as well as the school children in the entire community.