Operational Leadership Track

Not all individuals called to ministry are called to serve on the platform as pastors, worship leaders, or in other visible roles. Many are called to lead, build, and advance the mission of the church through operational excellence and strategic support. This track is designed for those who sense a calling to influence ministry through leadership in the systems, structures, and teams that sustain and grow the local church.

In this course, students will gain insight into the critical operational functions that drive ministry effectiveness and expansion. They will develop the mindset, leadership capacity, and spiritual foundation necessary to thrive as an operational leader—someone who not only supports the mission but also helps shape and move it forward.

Students will be equipped with practical tools, leadership principles, and proven techniques that can be applied across a variety of ministry environments. The course will provide a comprehensive overview and foundational training in key operational areas, including Database Management and Ministry Support Software, Administrative Leadership, Facilities and Maintenance, Café Operations, Event and Conference Planning, Dream Team and Small Group Coordination, Reception Systems, Team Management, and Business Office functions.

Through a combination of hands-on training, interactive teaching and discussions, guest speakers, staff shadowing, and reading assignments, students will be developed as confident, capable leaders who bring clarity, structure, and excellence to the operational side of ministry.

Operational Leadership Track Objectives

  • Develop the mindset, heart, and leadership perspective necessary to thrive as an operational leader within the local church.
  • Understand the strategic value of database management and data stewardship in advancing ministry effectiveness.
  • Learn the importance of capturing and stewarding an individual or household’s story within FellowshipOne and how that insight drives intentional, impactful ministry.
  • Gain understanding of the various software systems used to support and scale ministry, including the purpose and strategy behind each.
  • Build a foundational understanding of key operational departments, and develop insight into how their leadership, systems, and daily functions contribute to the overall mission.
  • Learn how to lead, plan, and execute ministry conferences and events with excellence, from vision through implementation.
  • Develop effective communication and leadership skills to lead teams or groups and collaborate across departments with clarity and unity.
  • Build proficiency in Excel as a practical tool for data management, reporting, and operational decision-making.

Operational Leadership Track Requirements

Prerequisites

Basic biblical principles, i.e., foundation in God’s Word, prayer, and communication
Proficient in computer basics, Gmail, Google Drive, and Microsoft Word
Ability to submit to authority
Pass a background check
Complete a nondisclosure form

Needed Equipment
Laptop with Internet capabilities

Required Texts or Materials
In Search of Timothy by Tony Cooke
Sheepdogs Among the Flock by William C. Canfield

Operational Track Weekly Schedule (up to 14 hours + homework)
Days/Times
Wednesdays 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesdays 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Saturdays 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Saturdays 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.*
Sundays 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.*

*Weekend hours include shadowing, serving on a Dream Team, and attending one service in person.

The Operational Leadership Track includes church events and holiday assignments (i.e., church activities, conferences, Christmas Eve, Easter) and may require extra hours during those times.