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Summer Update from Dick Gruber
> posted June 24, 2008
Dear Friend,
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus. He is our Good shepherd and loves the children.
I wanted to drop you a quick update regarding Children’s Ministries University Online. Since we opened the doors almost three years ago, over 583 students have registered and most have taken one or more classes. It is exciting to watch the progress of these students as they continue to sharpen their tools for ministry to God’s children.
We have just awarded our very first certificate in children’s ministries. Ruthie Hill has completed all requirements and is our first student to complete the certificate program. We are proud of her accomplishment. Several other students are nearing completion as I write this letter.
Take a look at cmuolite.com for information our upcoming live training event. October 9-11, 2008 we will host a live training event on the campus of Valley Forge Christian College. Students may participate on campus or virtually from the comfort of their own homes. Both on campus and virtual attendees will enjoy the content of this conference through our conference archive. All general sessions and workshops will be available to every registrant well beyond the week of the event. You will be able to use this material for your inspiration and that of your workers for months to come.
Speakers such as Jim Wideman, Dale VonSeggen, Wayne Tesch, and Dave Boyd will be featured at this event. Many others will be teaching workshops and sharing in our general sessions. We've got a great selection of exhibitors participating on campus and/or online with more yet to come on board. Excitement is building here at CMUO central as we receive registrations from around the world.
Children’s Pastor Jessica Vega has been organizing the workshop leaders and topics for the conference and all of these are nearly in place. Here are just ten of the over 50 workshops available:
Discipline Strategies in an Undisciplined World
17 Habits of a Successful Children’s Leader
Organizing Your Ministry and Yourself
Building a Biblical Worldview
Building a Team That Lasts
Breakthrough Spiritual Retreats
Your Church Should Have A Puppet Ministry
Using Contemporary Puppets and Ventriloquism
Active and Engaging Worship
Collaborative Planning and Document Creation using Google Docs
Check out the conference and register today at cmuolite.com. Register by August 28th to receive a discount. Student and group discounts are also available. We look forward to participating with you in this historic conference.
May God richly bless you in your continuing ministry to His children.
Dick Gruber
Children’s Ministries Specialist
Valley Forge Christian College
Children’s Ministries University Online
There is still time to register and receive the early-bird registration discount for the first ever Children’s Ministries University Online Live International Training Experience (CMUO LITE) to be offered October 9-11, 2008 on the campus of Valley Forge Christian College just outside of Philadelphia, PA. Join with children's ministry leaders from around the globe to learn practical ways to connect deeper with God, your ministry skills, and others.
In addition to the inspiring general sessions, you'll be able to choose from over 30 different hands-on workshop sessions covering a wide variety of practical children's ministry topics. Those who attend on-campus will not only have the benefit of attending many fabulous sessions, but will be able to access recordings of all 30+ breakout sessions after the event is over. Online attendees will also enjoy access to archives of all general sessions and breakouts.
Logon to cmuolite.com for more details. Register before June 15th to receive the early-bird discount! Group and student discounts are also available!
We look forward to reserving your spot at CMUO LITE 2008! Would you like to help us continue to spread the word about CMUO LITE? You can click here to download a printable poster [PDF] to put up on your church bulletin board or distribute to your fellow children's ministry leaders.
CMUO LITE: Register by May 1st to Receive Best Discount!
> posted April 16, 2008
In case you haven't heard, Children’s Ministries University Online will be offering the first ever Live International Training Experience (CMUO LITE)October 9-11, 2008 on the campus of Valley Forge Christian College just outside of Philadelphia, PA. Join with children's ministry leaders from around the globe to learn practical ways to connect deeper with God, your ministry skills, and others.
In addition to the inspiring general sessions, you'll be able to choose from over 30 different hands-on workshop sessions covering a wide variety of practical children's ministry topics. Those who attend on-campus will not only have the benefit of attending many fabulous sessions, but will be able to access recordings of all 30+ breakout sessions after the event is over. Online attendees will also enjoy access to archives of all general sessions and breakouts.
Logon to cmuolite.com for more details. Register before May 1st to receive the early-bird discount! Group and student discounts are also available!
We look forward to reserving your spot at CMUO LITE 2008!
Children's Ministries University Online announces the launch of the new 3-credit course New Testament Survey to be available beginning May 1, 2008.
CMU114: New Testament Survey offers a panoramic view of the chief events, prominent characters, main themes and salient teachings of each New Testament book in relation to its historical, geographical, and cultural contexts.
CMUO courses begin monthly, so you can sign-up and begin your journey toward expanding your children's ministry skills anytime. No matter whether or not you have taken an online course through CMUO before, you can sign-up today to begin your online learning experience as soon as May 1st. Simply logon 24/7 to http://www.cmuo.com and find out more details. Current CMUO learners or those who have already applied and been accepted to CMUO can register for the new "New Testament Survey" course at: http://www.cmuo.com/register
FREE Webcast: Cultivating a Cutting-Edge Children's Church
> posted March 18, 2008
Join Dick Gruber and Jason Rhode for this first-of-its-kind 3 hour interactive online workshop where you'll discover the practical steps to Cultivating a Cutting-Edge Children's Church.
In conjunction with the National Children's Ministries Leadership Conference, this pre-conference workshop offered face-to-face at the conference will be webcast live online on Tuesday, April 1, 2008 from 9:00am-12:00pm (CDT) and then repeated later that day from 1:00pm-4:00pm. View the FREE session online and interact with the presenters and other participants live online during the session!
Two identical sessions will be offered:
Session 1: Tuesday, April 1, 2008, 9:00am-12:00pm (CDT)
Session 2: Tuesday, April 1, 2008, 1:00pm-4:00pm (CDT)
Both sessions will be webcast live online using Ustream. To participate in the chat room to ask questions and post comments during the workshop, you need to login to Ustream. If you do not have a Ustream account yet, click here to register for free. Then, 10-15 mins before the session begins, click here to login to participate live online!
For those unable to participate live, the sessions will be recorded and archives made available afterwards at www.cmuo.com/workshops/kidschurch. Links to additional resource materials and the slides referenced during the sessions will also be posted there.
Children's Ministries University Online is proud to announce 2 new CMUO courses that will be available beginning April 1, 2008.
Biblical Interpretation (CMU 305)
This course will examine the science of hermeneutical analysis, processes, and methods in which one can derive the most accurate and valid interpretation of passages of the Bible. Due consideration will be given to the art involved in integrating various lines of thought in the Bible to accomplish an adequate understanding and application of any passage in the Bible. This theology elective course can fulfill the 3 credit theology requirement for the 1 year certificate in children's ministries. Prerequisites for this course are Old Testament Survey (CMU123) and New Testament Survey (CMU114).
Children's Ministries Conference (CMU 493)
Are you planning to attend a national children's ministry conference? Would you like to earn 3 college credits for doing so? This new CMUO elective course is for you! This class will give the student a deeper understanding of the development and implementation of vision and goals in children’s ministry leadership. Through reading, research, and participation in leadership training at a national children’s ministries conference, students will gain knowledge and insight into practical application of children’s ministries theory.
Those enrolling in this course in conjunction with attending a national children's ministries conference will attend a pre-conference training day as well as twelve workshops/plenary sessions at the national conference. Total time spent in pre-conference and workshops/plenary sessions should be 25-30 hours. Post-conference assignments are required.
Register online today to be among the first to take one of these new CMUO courses. Registrations for April 1st courses will be accepted thru March 25th.
CMUO courses begin monthly, so you can sign-up and begin your journey toward expanding your children's ministry skills anytime. No matter whether or not you have taken an online course through CMUO before, you can sign-up today to begin your online learning experience as soon as March 1st. You can logon 24/7 to http://www.cmuo.com and find out more details. Current CMUO learners or those who have already applied and been accepted to CMUO can register for the new "Biblical Interpretation " or "Children's Ministries Conference" course at: http://www.cmuo.com/register.
Course development efforts are ongoing, so watch for several additional courses to be released in the months ahead. Courses currently under development include: Biblical Theology, New Testament Survey, Early Childhood Ministry, Children's Presentations, Music in Ministry, and Pastoral Counseling.
CMUO LITE
The planning is well underway to our first-of-its kind Live Interational Training Experience that we are calling CMUO LITE. You can either join us on the campus of Valley Forge Christian College or online for this unique conference event to be held October 9-11, 2008. We've got a fabulous lineup of general session speakers scheduled, including David Boyd, Dick Gruber, Dale VonSeggen, and Jim Wideman and you'll also be able to choose from over 30 other breakout sessions. For complete details, visit www.cmuolite.com. To take advantage of the early-bird registration discount, make sure to register before May 1st.
Those participating in CMUO LITE either on-campus or online can earn 3 credits for participating in the conference by registering for and completing CMU 493 described above. Yet another great reason why you won't want to miss CMUO LITE!
Evangel Art: FREE Reproducible Art for Children's Ministries
> posted January 26, 2008
As a loyal subscriber to the CMUO e-News list, I wanted you to be among the first to learn of the reproducible children's ministry art that I've created, compiled, and am making available as a FREE download! That's right...this resource that includes years worth of my cartoon-style drawings is available for FREE!
Dick Gruber's Evangel Art: Reproducible Art for Children's Ministries is offered for FREE and includes:
over 40 evangel pages
385 picture words
124 scripture pictures
All artwork is provided in .jpg format and can be easily incorporated into any word processing, desktop publishing, or presentation software. To request a free download of Evangel Art, simply complete the download request form at www.cmuo.com/resources/evangelart. You will then receive an email with more details for downloading your free copy.
2008 promises to be one of the most exciting years yet for CMUO as we will be releasing the final remaining courses for the 1 year certificate program as well as several additional elective courses. Stay tuned to the CMUO e-News list for more details!
We're also looking forward to our first-of-its kind Live Interational Training Experience that we are calling CMUO LITE. You can either join us on the campus of Valley Forge Christian College or online for this unique conference event to be held October 9-11, 2008. We've got a fabulous lineup of general session speakers scheduled, including David Boyd, Dale VonSeggen, and Jim Wideman and you'll also be able to choose from over 30 other breakout sessions. For complete details, visit www.cmuolite.com. To take advantage of the early-bird registration discount, make sure to register before May 1st.
We look forward to hearing from you and to seeing you online or in-person in 2008!
While a few details still have yet to be finalized, this conference will truly be a first of its kind children’s ministry conference that you won’t want to miss! Here’s the top 10 reasons why you should mark your calendar now to participate in CMUO LITE 2008!
10. Networking with other children’s ministry leaders
One the the key benefits to any children’s ministry event is the opportunity to connect with other children’s ministry leaders. CMUO LITE offers an opportunity to start building your children’s ministry network with others not only in attendance on-campus but also online from around the globe!
9. 30+ breakout sessions
An extensive exhibit area and full slate of top children’s ministry practitioners will be available during CMUO LITE 2008.
8. Knowledgable, inspiring speakers
Internationally recognized speakers David Boyd, Dick Gruber, Dale VonSeggen, and Jim Wideman will be sharing during the general sessions. These times promise to be filled with encouragement and inspiration for all those who minister to children.
7. Refreshing praise & worship
Gifted worship leader Kimberly Green will be leading refreshing times of praise & worship during the general sessions.
6. State-of-the-art training facilities
General sessions will be held in VFCC’s chapel and workshop sessions will take place in VFCC’s Cardone Hall, offering a first class training environment. WiFi access will be provided to all participants so that they can enjoy online access throughout the conference.
5. Archives of all sessions to be made available to registrants
Those who attend on-campus will not only have the benefit of attending many fabulous sessions, but will be able to access recordings of all 30+ breakout sessions after the event is over. Online attendees will also enjoy access to archives of all general sessions and breakouts.
4. Online community
All participants in CMUO LITE 2008 will receive a complimentary membership to CMUOnet, the online community of Children’s Ministries University Online, allowing them to participate in a variety of online activities and discussions with the presenters and participants of CMUO LITE 2008 before, during, and after the event. More details will be provided at the time of registration. In the meantime, current and former CMUO learners can access the CMUO LITE community via CMUOnet at http://cmuonet.org/cmuolite and begin networking today!
3. Attend either on-campus or online
Unique, flexible registration options are available, allowing one to either participate in the on-campus conference or in an online-only format. Registration for the on-campus conference includes:
>> 4 General Sessions
>> 7 Breakout Sessions
>> Exhibits
>> 2 Meals
>> Online conference community for networking before, during, and after the event
>> WiFi Internet access on campus
>> Access to archives of all sessions for download
Registration in the online-only version of the conference includes access to archive of recordings of all general sessions, breakout sessions, and the online conference community for networking with the speakers, presenters, and others participating in the event.
2. Earn 3 credits to put towards a 1 year certificate in children’s ministry from CMUO
Participants, either on-campus or online, wishing to earn 3 credits for participating in CMUO LITE will have the option to register for an elective CMUO course and complete a few additional assignments offering the opportunity to demonstrate how the skills learned are being applied in the local children’s ministry setting.
1. Connections
The theme for this event is “Connections” drawn from Psalms 78:72 - And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them. You will be challenged in practical ways to connect deeper with God, your ministry skills, and others.
Jason Rhode and I are excited to announce a new children's ministry podcast that we are calling "Children's Ministry Talk." While still very much still in the formative stages, this podcast will be talkshow style in which we look forward to providing encouragement for children's ministry leaders, by children's ministry leaders, on all things children's ministry.
So...how exactly will we accomplish this goal? Well...we really want this podcast to be very much listener-driven and reallly be interactive. Every episode will be totally FREE and be filled with practical ideas, advice, and encouragement for anyone ministering to children. We want you....the listener...to contact us with questions or comments on anything related to children's ministry. Also, we'd love any suggestions that you'd have for the "ultimate children's ministry podcast."
There are lots of convenient ways for you to contact us, all of which are posted at childrensministrytalk.com.
We plan to regularly have guests join us on-air to discuss various children's ministry topics. Who knows...maybe you'll have opportunity to join us on the air! More details are sure to come as we continue fleshing things out. Right now, we're planning for offering a new 15-20 minute episode every 2 weeks.
In the meantime, we want to hear from you! Specifically, what questions do you have that you'd like us to talk about? Is there a topic that has been addressed in one of the CMUO courses that you'd like us to expand upon? Or, is there a situation that you are facing in your children's ministry that you'd like some advice on how to address? You name it...we want to hear from you on it. We look forward to hearing from you, either via email, phone, etc. Let your voice be heard and get in touch! Complete details for contacting us with your questions, comments, ideas, or suggestions are at childrensministrytalk.com.
You don't need an iPod or any fancy device to enjoy podcasts. You can listen to them for free either online or on your computer. And, if you do happen to have a porable media player like an iPod, you can certainly also listen to podcasts wherever you want. The CMUO course "Advanced Web Communications" provides an opportunity to learn a lot more about podcasting and even the chance to learn how to create your own podcast. More details about this course and to sign-up are at http://www.cmuo.com/admissions®istration/coursedescriptions.htm
We look forward to receiving your emails and voice comments as well as bringing you the next episode soon. Also, consider helping us spread the word about this new podcast by sharing it with others. All the details for subscribing so you don't miss a single episode are available at childrensministrytalk.com.
CMUO is pleased to announce the launch of the new 3-credit course Ministry to Children with Disabilities to be available beginning November 1, 2007. This course has been developed by Rev. Larry Sauter, nationally-appointed missionary with Special Touch Ministry to people with disabilities.
CMU210: Ministry to Children with Disabilities offers an overview of disability ministry. This course will seek to help children's ministry leaders develop understanding and insight into the following areas: theology of disability ministry, types of disabilities and proper terminology, teaching strategies, modern trends in disability ministry, special education and its affect on the church, and how to build and maintain relationships with families who have children with disabilities.
Free Workshop - Learning Disabilities and ADD/ADHD
CMUO courses begin monthly, so you can sign-up and begin your journey toward expanding your children's ministry skills anytime. No matter whether or not you have taken an online course through CMUO before, you can sign-up today to begin your online learning experience as soon as November 1st. Simply logon 24/7 to http://www.cmuo.com and find out more details. Current CMUO learners or those who have already applied and been accepted to CMUO can register for the new "Ministry to Children with Disabilities " course at: http://www.cmuo.com/register
Registrations for November 1st courses will be accepted thru October 25th. Be one of the first to enroll in the new Ministry to Children with Disabilities course by signing-up today!
Win free CMUO Tuition! :: CMUO Promo Video Contest
> posted September 4, 2007
Why do you love online children's ministry training offered through Children's Ministries University Online (CMUO)? Why should other children's ministry leaders consider taking a CMUO course? Record a short video promoting CMUO and be entered in a contest to Win FREE CMUO TUITION! Submit your video today!
Just in time for fall, CMUO is announcing a great offer for children's ministry leaders looking to expand their technology and communication skills!!
CMUO courses are offered at a substantial tuition discount. Financial aid for students is provided in the institutional scholarship that is reflected in the discounted tuition rate. Yet, for September 2007, Children's Ministries University Online (CMUO) is also offering an additional 15% tuition discount for the "Technology in Children's Ministry" and "Advanced Web Communications" courses!
Technology in Children's Ministry (CMU 223)
This course is a study of the philosophy for and pragmatics of contemporary usage of technology within children's ministries. Exemplary examples of technology integration within the local children's ministry setting will be explored and common software applications will be utilized to create technological tools to enhance ministry to children. Special September 2007 discounted tuition - $189!
Advanced Web Communications (CMU 224)
This course examines Web 2.0 communication technologies and their application within children's ministries. Technologies to be explored include: RSS, blogs, podcasts, collaborative authoring tools, social bookmarking, and online media sharing. The focus of the course activities is placed upon practical application of the technologies in the local children's ministry setting. Special September 2007 discounted tuition - $63!
FREE textbook offer! If this exclusive tuition discount isn't enough reason to consider signing-up today, how about this...The first 20 people who register for the September course section of "Advanced Web Communications" and pay the discounted tuition fee will receive the course textbook, "Blogs, Wikis, and Podcasts" by Will Richardson absolutely FREE!!! (a $28 value).
Have you been considering taking an online children's ministry training course but just never gotten around to signing up? Are you looking for tools and skills to help take your children's ministry to the next level? Apply today to CMUO if you've not already done so and then register for one of these fully-accredited college level courses to reserve your place in the class and take advantage of this great offer!
Join the hundreds of children's ministry leaders from around the world who have already begun expanding their horizons and ministry skills by taking an online children's ministry training course through CMUO. Act fast...the FREE TEXTBOOK OFFER is only for a limited time and only goes to the first 20 individuals who register and pay the discounted course tuition fee.
I am preaching in boys and girls camps as I write this letter to you. Children’s Ministries University Online opened for business almost two years ago. We have worked most of the bugs out of tests and electronic work submission and have had fabulous feedback from our students. New classes are under development for your continued education, such as:
Ministry to Children with Disabilities
This course offers an overview of disability ministry. This course will seek to help children's ministry leaders develop understanding and insight into the following areas: theology of disability ministry, types of disabilities and proper terminology, teaching strategies, modern trends in disability ministry, special education and its effect on the church, and how to build and maintain relationships with families who have children with disabilities.
Christian Theology
A study of the major biblical and theological themes of both testaments. Emphasis on discovering the flow of ideas that bind the different books of the Bible into a unified whole.
Children's Presentations
This course is an overview of puppetry, storytelling, juggling and other visual methods used in children’s ministry. Practical emphasis is placed on choosing, preparing, and presenting content and concepts to children of various ages. Emphasis is placed on tying kid-tested methods to solid Biblical messages in order to delight children with the Gospel.
Old Testament Survey
A study of the historical settings, literary features, authorship, theological teachings, and general content of the Hebrew Bible. This survey provides a factual and practical groundwork for further studies in the Old Testament. *This course launches beginning September 1, 2007. Register today!
I want to thank those of you who partnered with me in prayer as I experienced a heart attack December 28th, and subsequent recovery period this spring. I am feeling about 90% now and thanking God for touching my heart and for your faithfulness.
Tuition Increase
Since CMUO began we have been committed to providing quality education at affordable prices. Due to inflationary and administrative concerns we will be raising tuition costs from $75 per credit hour to $90 effective for those beginning classes October 1. You may want to sign up for another class before the rate hike goes into effect. We continue our ongoing commitment to provide cutting edge theoretical as well as practical training to you and others who serve along side of you in ministry to God’s kids.
CMUO Live
Set aside October 9-11, 2008 for the first ever “CMUO Live” event. This exciting training opportunity will take place on the campus of Valley Forge Christian College just outside of Philadelphia, PA. Jason Rhode and I will be joined by internationally recognized speakers such as Jim Wideman, David Boyd, and Dale VonSeggen for this event. An extensive exhibit area and full slate of top children’s ministry practitioners will be available to you during CMUO Live 2008. For those that cannot travel to be with us personally, we will host online registrants in our first ever live interactive web casts and classes. Mark your calendar and plan on joining us a year from this October.
FREE! Those registering for CMUO classes beginning September 1 - November 1 this year will receive a free download of Dick Gruber’s new book, “Cultivating a Cutting Edge Children’s Church.” In this book, Dick gives you kid-tested practical wisdom in developing your children’s church service. This exclusive premier copy, a $16 value, is only available to CMUO students for this limited time. As you register for classes during this promotion you will be able to click on the book button and download your copy of this important ministry tool.
I pray for you each day and know that as you sharpen your tools for ministry to His children, God will increase your place in his harvest field. God bless.
Help is On The Way! Recruiting and Keeping Substitute Staff
> posted March 28, 2007
One of the biggest challenges in ministry for children’s pastors and leaders is finding enough workers. Without a good staff of teachers and assistants we can’t accomplish all that God has called us to do in our ministry to children. Yet, finding qualified people can be a real challenge.
One solution to this ongoing challenge is to develop a substitute staff of teachers and assistants. In this FREE workshop, veteran children's pastor and CMUO instructor Verda Rubottom discusses how to recruit substitute teachers and workers and how to can keep them.
Are you interested in taking your children's ministry to the next level? Consider enrolling in a CMUO course today! New CMUO courses begin monthly, so you can sign-up and begin your journey toward expanding your children's ministry skills anytime, anywhere. Complete details are online at http://www.cmuniversity.org/details.
Two New CMUO Courses Announced:
Advanced Web Communications; A/G Doctrine & History
> posted January 26, 2007
CMUO is pleased to announce the launch of two new courses to be available beginning March 1, 2007: Advanced Web Communications and A/G Doctrine & History.
Advanced Web Communications (CMU224) is the first 1-credit CMUO elective course. This course will examine Web 2.0 communications technologies and their application within children's ministries. Technologies to be explored include: rss, blogs, podcasts, collaborative authoring tools, social bookmarking, and online media sharing. The focus of course activities is placed upon practical application of the technologies in the local children's ministry setting. Students will create their own ministry blog, podcast, and wiki as well as explore various free advanced online communication services.
A/G Doctrine & History (THE233) is one of the electives that individuals pursuing the 1-year certificate in Children's Ministries can take to fulfill the theology course requirement. This course includes a study of Assemblies of God antecedents, history, government, doctrinal emphases, distinctives, and mission.
Be among the first to take one of these new CMUO courses by registering online today! Registrations for March 1st courses will be accepted thru February 25th.
CMUO courses begin monthly, so you can sign-up and begin your journey toward expanding your children's ministry skills anytime. No matter whether or not you have taken an online course through CMUO before, you can sign-up today to begin your online learning experience as soon as March 1st. You can logon 24/7 to http://www.cmuniversity.org and find out more details. Current CMUO learners or those who have already applied and been accepted to CMUO can register for the new "Advanced Web Communications" or "A/G Doctrine & History" course at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/register
Course development efforts are ongoing, so watch for several additional courses to be released in the months ahead.
When CMUO learners reach the mid-point of a course, they are asked to reflect upon their learning experience to date and share their comments with the rest of the class. Here are some recent comments from CMUO learners about their online learning experience.
I knew that this course was going to be so good for me. I knew it was time to be stretched with the assignments. I have been finding that as I have been working through the course, I have found opportunity to implement the different course information into the ministry I am working in. It has also caused me to evaluate what our church is doing in kid's ministry and how we can better what we do. - Marlene P.
I love CMUO! Every course I have taken I have LOVED!!!! - Megan C.
I am soo grateful for these online courses. This will be my 3rd, and I can say I am completely remade and fitted for God's call. My church is growing in the number of children, God has burdened me with a passion for getting His truth to them, these courses are blessing me with the knowledge and the tools to meet the need. I can't say enough good things about what I have learned and put into practice. - Mark M.,
I'm enjoying the course. I'm finding it stimulating, equipping, challenging and doable. I'm a little surprised that I find the course so easy to sit down and do as I am so group motivated that I wondered how I would go doing an online course. It's going well. I'm finding that it is not only equipping me but also giving me things to pass on to my team. - Sandy J.
I love these classes and the flexibility of doing them online!! - Charlene H.
I am enjoying this course and it has been informative and encouraging. The instructor has also been encouraging with her feedback. - Kathleen B.
I am blessed with these on-line courses as I really need the tools to do the work the Lord has given me. Thank you!! - Kelly L.
I have really enjoyed CMUO. It is great and works well with my job and ministry work...I know anyone who takes part in CMUO courses will love it! It is just RIGHT! - Megan C.
I love being able to work at my own pace and setting my own deadlines, it really helps to be able to work around the busy seasons of ministry. - Sarah S.
I give this course an A++. I am taking my time completing each unit because it matters so much to me. I take the reading and audio lectures very seriously and thus do not do this just to get it done. I make sure I am fully concentrating and soaking in every nugget of wisdom that is presented to me. I am growing as a leader. - Lucero H.
So...what's stopping you from trying out a CMUO course for yourself? Applying is quick & easy at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/apply. CMUO courses begin monthly. Sign-up today to begin your online learning experience with CMUO as soon as December 1st. Log-on to http://www.cmuniversity.org and find out more details. Have a question about CMUO? Visit the Q&A forum to find the answers you are looking for at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/support
CMUO is one year old. For a baby, this baby is doing pretty awechum. We have had to change a few dirty diapers and the baby has from time to time given us a few sleepless nights, but we are pleased with it's growth. Look at this.
> 749 people have signed-up for the CMUO e-news list to receive program development updates.
> 288 people have applied to take CMUO courses.
> 139 people have taken 273 courses.
> We have students from 33 states, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and Canada.
> Our top five states for student enrollment are:
Florida
Pennsylvania
California
Virginia
Indiana
> 72% of our students are 30 years or older
> 58% of our student body are 40 years or older
> 12% are 50 years or older
> The top 3 ways that students have heard about CMUO are:
Web search
Kidology
Word of mouth.
For those have had taken part, thanks. We're looking forward to another great year of growth. Who knows, maybe by this time next year we'll be walking.
New Blogging & Social Networking Tool for CMUO Learners
> posted September 12, 2006
CMUO is proud to announce the beta release of CMUOnet, the new personal learning landscape for CMUO. CMUOnet is a hybrid of weblogging, e-portfolios and social networking, allowing distance education children's ministry learners and instructors to meet both socially and academically. For the first time, CMUO learners are able to meet fellow students, either online or face-to-face, without invading their privacy through the formation of learning and ministry communities. Learners in self-paced CMUO courses are no longer limited to meeting and building networks with just the students within the course(s) they are enrolled in, but now have access to the entire CMUO community.
Users of CMUOnet have a blog and digital repository of files and RSS feeds that can be either private, shared within communities of other CMUOnet users, or made available to the public. No advanced technical skills are necessary! Users will have total control over what content they'd like to share with others and what communities they'd like to join or create. And...the best part of CMUOnet...it is FREE to past and present CMUO learners.
Interested in finding out more about CMUOnet? Complete details are provided at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/cmuonet. If you are currently enrolled in a CMUO course or you have completed a course in the past, you can sign-up for an account and get started using CMUOnet today!
Or, maybe you've considered taking a children's ministry training course through CMUO but you've not yet taken the first step to getting started...there's no better time than right now to apply to CMUO and try out a course! Applying is quick & easy at:http://www.cmuniversity.org/apply. And, once you begin your first course, you'll be able to begin using CMUOnet to connect with other children's ministry leaders as you sharpen your ministry skills.
CMUOnet is currently being offered in its beta format, so watch for continued improvements to the system in the future!
Do you struggle to keep track of all your favorite children's ministry websites and other online resources? Have you ever lost your folder of bookmarks in your Web browser or wished you could access them from ANY computer? Have you been looking for a free and easy-to-use tool for not only bookmarking your own children's ministry favorite websites, but other online favorites? And, what if you could share your favorite children's ministry bookmarks with others?
If your answer to any of the above questions is "Yes" then look no further than http://www.cmbookmarks.com!
Powered by the popular bookmarking tool del.icio.us, cmbookmarks.com is a brand new FREE resource site sponsored by CMUO that serves as a directory of children's ministry websites and resources that have been bookmarked by others. Bookmarks can be easily searched by topic (aka: "tag") or keyword. And, anyone can contribute to the collection of bookmarks provided by simply applying a specific tag when bookmarking the site in a del.icio.us account. Don't worry about loosing another bookmark to a website ever again!
Stop by www.cmbookmarks.com to find out more details. Instructions are provided on how to setup a free del.icio.us account to begin bookmarking your favorites for access from any other computer with an Internet connection as well as to begin sharing your favorite CM bookmarks with others. If you happen to find this service helpful, please spread the word and consider adding a link from your website or blog to cmbookmarks.
CMUO is pleased to announce a partnership with Larry Sauter, missionary with Special Touch Ministry to people with disabilities, to develop an elective 3-credit CMUO course on the subject of disability ministry.
CMU210: Ministry to Children with Disabilities, will offer an overview of disability ministry. This course will seek to help children's ministry leaders develop understanding and insight into the following areas: theology of disability ministry, types of disabilities and proper terminology, teaching strategies, modern trends in disability ministry, special education and its effect on the church, and how to build and maintain relationships with families who have children with disabilities. While no specific date for release is available yet, course development efforts are underway with the goal of a course launch date in late 2006.
If you have already applied to CMUO and have been wondering when you should jump in and take your first children's ministries training course online, there is still time to register for a CMUO course that begins August 1st. Current available CMUO courses include:
Registrations received up to midnight on July 25th are eligible to begin class August 1st. Don't delay - register online today at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/register. New course sections begin monthly.
CMUO now has a RSS feed to help keep those who prefer really simply syndication feeds (RSS) over email for notification of updates. Not sure what RSS is? Don't worry :-) As long as you are subscribed to CMUO's e-news list you'll always receive information updates concerning CMUO. You can read more about RSS here. To subscribe to CMUO's RSS feed, click here or on the found at the bottom of every page on the CMUO website.
"Intro to Christian Education" Course Available April 1, 2006
> posted March 17, 2006
CMUO is pleased to announce the launch of its fifth class to be available beginning April 1, 2006: Introduction to Christian Education.
Introduction to Christian Education (CMU113) offers an explanation of historical and philosophical foundations for church education. This course provides an overview of the Christian education ministry to all ages in the church, and explores such topics as materials and teaching methods, curriculum instruction and evaluation, leadership and training, the recruitment and supervision of volunteers, etc.
CMUO courses begin monthly, so you can sign-up and begin your journey toward expanding your children's ministry skills anytime. No matter whether or not you have taken an online course through CMUO before, you can sign-up today to begin your online learning experience as soon as February 1st. You can logon 24/7 to http://www.cmuniversity.org and find out more details. Current CMUO learners or those who have already applied and been accepted to CMUO can register for the new "Introduction to Christian Education" course at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/register
Registrations for all April 1st courses will be accepted thru March 25th. Be one of the first to enroll in the new "Introduction to Christian Education " course by signing-up today!
Course development efforts are ongoing, so watch for several additional courses to be released in the months ahead.
"Child Evangelism" Course Available February 1, 2006
> posted January 5, 2006
Children's ministry leaders from across the United States have signed-on to Children's Ministries University Online and are now networking with fellow children's ministers, expanding their ministry knowledge & skills, and applying what they are learning in their local children's ministry settings.
CMUO is pleased to announce the launch of the fourth class to be available beginning February 1, 2006: Child Evangelism.
Child Evangelism (CMU233) is an in-depth focus on evangelism and children. Topics include: the history of child evangelism in American traditional as well as cutting-edge evangelism thrusts; age-appropriate evangelism techniques; how to lead a child to Christ; the art of the altar call; making the most of holidays; preparations of child evangelism materials; and how to organize and present evangelistic events for children. This class will require students to prepare and execute a plan for child evangelism, write, and illustrate an age-appropriate gospel tract, and participate in several evangelistic programs in local churches. Some time will be required to present the Gospel to children in a variety of venues.
CMUO courses begin monthly, so you can sign-up and begin your journey toward expanding your children's ministry skills anytime. No matter whether or not you have taken an online course through CMUO before, you can sign-up today to begin your online learning experience as soon as February 1st. You can logon 24/7 to http://www.cmuniversity.org and find out more details. Current CMUO learners or those who have already applied and been accepted to CMUO can register for the new "Child Evangelism" course at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/register
Registrations for February 1st courses will be accepted thru January 25th. Be one of the first to enroll in the new "Child Evangelism" course by signing-up today!
Course development efforts are ongoing, so watch for several additional courses to be released in the months ahead.
Just two weeks ago, the first CMUO courses were launched! Here's a sampling of what CMUO learners are saying about the online learning experience through CMUO:
I am loving this course! I have been given a lot to think and pray about. There have been a lot of suggestions that should be implemented, but it won't happen over night. I don't know everything about children's ministry. I want to grow and learn. I appreciate the opportunity to do so. – Susie D.
This class has been an encouragement to me that I have been heading the right direction in my ministry involvement and ministry leadership. After only six units, I feel empowered to be a better teacher to the kids in my classes and to more effectively train the workers in my ministry. In addition, I have a renewed passion for children and children's ministry. I look forward to the rest of this class and to future classes. – Amy H.
So far I have LOVED my courses. I was a little nervous at first, but now I am all into it. Being that I am newly married and work a lot...I was afraid on how this class would affect my daily life. I love it! My husband is still in college going for his pastoral degree and when he does his homework I can do mine. It helps us both be motivated. The first 6 units have been amazing. I really enjoy everything about it so far. I am so happy that I found out about CMUO. – Megan C.
This course has been absolutely incredible. I knew quite a bit about several of the programs used but to see them applied to ministry - and even more specifically for CM - it just made me want to soak up more. I'm excited to learn more and to hear the tips and suggestions of the instructor. The course is very well done, easy to use with very clear instructions. I appreciate all the time and hard work that went into this to make a great course experience. – Kelly N.
CMUO courses begin monthly. Sign-up today to begin your online learning experience October 1st. Log-on to http://www.cmuniversity.org and find out more details. Have a question about CMUO? Visit the Q&A forum to find the answers you are looking for at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/support
CMUO is proud to announce a partnership with Kidology, a non-profit organization committed to equipping and encouraging children’s workers through quality training and affordable resources. One of the resources of Kidology is it's website, http://www.kidology.org, which is regarded as one of the top online children's ministry resources available today.
The mission of Kidology is, "To equip and encourage those who minister to children." This matching of philosophy to that of CMUO makes a partnership between CMUO, Valley Forge Christian College, and Kidology a natural fit.
The founder of Kidology, Karl Bastian (aka: "The Kidologist) has joined the CMUO faculty and will be teaching a variety of CMUO courses in addition to leading the development of several new elective CMUO courses. Exciting details of future partnership efforts between CMUO and Kidology are in the formative stages and will be announced in the months ahead.
May God bless you in your efforts to reach kids for Christ. We at CMUO desire to see your ministry to children flourish and we are committed to providing cutting-edge, accredited children's ministry training that is affordable and accessible to anyone, anywhere!
The first three CMUO courses begin September 1st. There is still time to register for a course in order to begin in September. Applications must be received by August 23rd (http://www.cmuniversity.org/admissions®istration/apply.htm) and registrations by August 25th (http://www.cmuniversity.org/admissions®istration/register.htm) in order to be eligible to begin courses September 1st. Kidology members enjoy drastically reduced tuition rates on CMUO courses as well as access to the wealth of children's ministry resources available through Kidology.org
We look forward to assisting you in your journey toward becoming better equipped for leadership within children's ministry.
CMUO is proud to partner with One Way Street, Inc. to provide learners the ability to shop online for all their course textbooks and supplemental children's ministry resources.
To purchase, simply note which books are required for the course you are taking and then follow the instructions to purchase the required books online and have them sent to you.
If you have already applied to CMUO and have registered for your first CMUO course, we look forward to seeing you in the online courseroom soon! If you haven't yet signed-up, we encourage you to take a closer look at what CMUO has to offer. Click here to view a 5 minute video of CMUO founders Jason Rhode and Dick Gruber as they share some of the benefits of an online children's ministry education through CMUO.
CMUO Featured at 51st General Council
of the Assemblies of God
> posted August 3, 2005
The following excerpt was featured in "The Council Today," August 3, 2005 and is available online here.
Children's ministry training online through VFCC
By: Dick Gruber
“Relaxed learning, ministry education. Anywhere. Anytime.” That is the slogan adapted by Valley Forge Christian College’s latest upgrade. This month, VFCC launches Children’s Ministries University Online. CMUO is a leap into the future of higher education in our Movement. Now children’s pastors, church leaders and Sunday School teachers worldwide can receive quality college-level training in children’s ministries programming and practice while sitting in the comfort of their own office, church or home.
CMUO is the brainchild of Jason Rhode, Assembly of God children’s minister and online training specialist at Northern Illinois University. Jason has teamed up with Dick Gruber, long-time children’s pastor and specialist in this vital ministry. Rhode and Gruber, working with the VFCC Children’s Ministries Department, have forged a partnership for the betterment of children’s ministers everywhere.
Initial classes include Pastoring Children, Technology in Children’s Ministries, and Children’s Ministries: An Overview. More classes will be added until a complete menu will be offered giving the learner the opportunity to earn a one- or two-year certificate in Children’s Ministries.
All admissions, registration, payment of fees, text book ordering, class work and testing will be accomplished online. Amy Harder, a mom and children’s church helper in Denver, Colorado, recently e-mailed the CMUO office saying, “I’ve been looking into various schools that offer online degree programs and have been generally disappointed. While I don’t see myself as a children’s pastor somewhere (at least not for a while anyway), I will always be involved in children’s ministry in one way or another. I am so excited about the possibility of: 1) actually getting a degree, 2) being able to do it from home, and 3) studying something I’m passionate about.”
CMUO classes provide detailed instruction in everything from safety issues in the church to recruiting and caring for volunteers. Information is taught using everyday language, practical application and the latest research in effective children’s ministries programming. Woven throughout each lesson is the genuine passion that Professor Gruber has for reaching children. This passion has driven Gruber to reach and teach children and those that serve them for more than 30 years.
Easy-to-follow tutorials developed by Rhode will assist the computer novice to finish each course with ease. Because the material is online, the learner can take notes, return to favorite teachings, and review important information repeatedly.
Plans for the future of CMUO include offering an Associate of Arts Degree in Children’s Ministries and offering all class work and materials in Spanish.
To sign up for this new program, visit the VFCC booth or the CMOU Web site (www.cmuniversity.com). Gruber and Rhode will be available at the VFCC booth throughout General Council to answer questions.
Technical aspects of the fully-online application process for CMUO are currently being finalized. In the meantime, a semi-online application form is now available for anyone interested in applying to CMUO.
Those interested in applying to CMUO should complete the CMUO online application form available at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/admissions®istration/apply.htm. Once your application is submitted and reviewed, an admissions counselor will contact you to complete the application process. At that time you will then have the option of registering for one or more CMUO courses. You may also contact the VFCC Admissions Department at 1-800-432-8322 or e-mail at admissions@vfcc.edu if you have any questions.
Several new informational tools regarding e-learning at CMUO are now available for prospective learners to take advantage of, providing a glimpse of what it’s like to take online children’s ministry training courses through CMUO.
Are you interested in learning more about what’s involved with learning online? In 15 minutes, you can get a taste of how online learning at CMUO works. Simply log-on to: http://www.cmuniversity.org/elearning/tour/index.htm and take the CMUO course tour today!
A demonstration course is now available, in which prospective learners now have the opportunity to try out a CMUO course before even signing-up. Details on how to log-in to view this sample course, including the necessary username and password, are provided at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/elearning/coursedemo.htm
At CMUO, we look forward to assisting you in every step of your journey toward enhancing your children’s ministry leadership skills. Watch for details to be announced soon regarding CMUO application and course registration!
If you have further questions at any time, please visit the CMUO learner support forum at: http://www.cmuniversity.org/support and post any questions that you may have. One of the CMUO learner support staff will respond to questions posted within 24-48 hours.
Financial Aid, Transfer Credits, and Registration Updates
> posted May 30, 2005
The following updates regarding financial aid, transfer of credits, and registration have been released by VFCC.
Financial Aid:
CMUO courses are offered at a substantial tuition discount. Financial aid for students is providedin the institutional scholarship that is reflected in the discounted tuition rate.
Transfer Credits:
Students may transfer up to 6 credits from an accredited institution toward the Certificate in Children's Ministry. In order for transfer credits to be considered for CMUO, an email from the student to admissions@vfcc.edu notifying Valley Forge Christian College of the intention to transfer credits and an official printed transcript mailed to Admissions Office, Valley Forge Christian College, 1401 Charlestown Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460, USA are required.
Admissions:
Admission to Children's Ministries University Online involves both a commitment to academic achievement and to a lifestyle commitment consistent with the values and objectives of CMUO. Therefore, in sighing the application, each student certifies an intent to abide by the ethical and moral principles of CMUO as well as accept the task of learning and intellectual development.
CMUO does not discriminate on the basis of handicap, sex, race, color, or national or ethnic origin in the recruitmentand admission of students.
To received website development updates delivered directly to you via email when released, join the e-news list.
The first version of the Children's Ministries University Online website has been released and is now available online at: http://www.cmuniversity.org. The "About CMUO", "Bookstore", and "News & Events" are online, with limited information available within the other site sections.
As a "work in progress," this site will be undergoing weekly updates as program development efforts move forward. Additional information will be posted to the various portions of the website as soon as it becomes available. Announcements will be added to this page whenever substantial updates are made to the site, so check back often to see what informational items have been added.
In addition to posting announcements of updates here, updates will be send to the CMUO e-news list. To received website development updates delivered directly to you via email when released, join the e-news list.
