About The IECCD
Who We Are
The IECCD is a place of ministerial support for early career clergy of all denominations, a place where they can consult with pastors who are in a similar ministry and missional setting. It is a place for clergy to receive practical It is a place that seeks to be bold by educating clergy about LGBTQI persons, #BlackLivesMatter, systemic racism, and immigration rights. It is a place for clergy who want to be change agents in their communities, but who don’t quite have the tools to do so. It is a place for clergy who serve congregations whose membership reflects the vast political spectrum of American politics. It is a place where clergy who want to learn how to address these issues within their congregations can turn. It is also a place where we recognize a person’s call to ministry and we help them understand what that call means in the 21st century.
Cohort
The Early Career and Senior Career Clergy Cohort brings together early career clergy (second through seventh year) with senior career clergy (more than ten years in ministry). The cohorts will consist of three to four early career clergy paired with one senior career clergy.
Spring Retreat
The Spring Retreat is a two-day event which addresses questions in 21st century ministry. This year’s Retreat has been postponed until Fall 2020 and will address Rural Ministry.
Continuing Education
Continuing Education opportunities are offered throughout the year. Check out our online offerings for Summer 2020.
Our Team
Rev. Kimberly Clarke
Director
BA, Tufts University
Duke Divinity School (coursework toward M.A.C.P. — Youth Ministry concentration)
Master of Divinity Student, Hood Theological Seminary
Pastor, Triad Native American UMC, Greensboro, NC, Western North Carolina Conference
Rev. Dr. Lamont Foster
Clergy Advisor
BS, University of Connecticut
M.A., North Carolina Central University
Ed.D., Appalachian State University
MDiv, DMin., Hood Theological Seminary
Pastor, St. John AME Zion Church, Wilson, NC
Rev. Dr. Jim Wadford
Clergy Advisor
BA, Central Wesleyan College
M.Div., Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
D.Min., Drew Theological Seminary
Director, Doctor of Ministry Program, Hood Theological Seminary