Convergence of Ministerial Reappraisal and Private Grinding for Public Gain at WNCC 27th Ministers/Church Leaders Workshop and 26th Graduation Ceremony
The WNCC 27th Ministers and Church Leaders Workshop and the 26th Graduation Ceremony marked another significant milestone in the mission of the college toward equipping ministers and church leaders for effective service in a rapidly changing world. Held from May 5–8, 2026, the Ministers and Church Leaders Workshop, themed “Rethinking Ministry at a Time Like This,” brought together about 60 participants, with five faculty members serving as resource persons. The workshop addressed contemporary challenges confronting ministry, including technological change, economic uncertainty, youth disengagement, skepticism toward religion, and the growing demand for innovative ministry approaches.
Key areas discussed included hybrid ministry, youth ministry, striving rather than merely surviving in ministry, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ministry, discerning the signs of the times, courageous leadership, entrepreneurship and ministry sustainability, and dealing with skepticism. Participants described the workshop theme as timely, relevant, and necessary for helping ministers respond meaningfully to present realities in ministry. An important aspect of the workshop was the continued emphasis on soul care and reflective silence, a practice inaugurated by the college last year. For two days, participants intentionally withdrew from their ministerial routines for moments of prayer, reflection, communion with God, and personal renewal. Participants expressed appreciation for this initiative, describing it as restorative and essential for sustainable ministry. At the conclusion of the workshop, 11 participants received certificates of participation. Many attendees also expressed appreciation for the transformative impact of the college and indicated interest in recommending or sending their wards for training at the institution.
Alongside the workshop, the college celebrated its 26th Graduation Ceremony with the award of diploma and degree certificates and presentation of prizes. A total of 18 students graduated, comprising 13 graduates with the Diploma in Biblical Studies and 5 graduates with the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry. These graduands emerged from the institution’s hybrid learning centers across the country, reflecting the effectiveness and expanding reach of the college’s hybrid delivery system. As at 2026, the College’s graduands stand at 589 across its diverse programs.
The commencement lecture was delivered by Professor Samuel Okanlawon, Professor of Christian Theology, University of Ibadan, on the theme “Private Grinding for Public Gain” from 1 Timothy 4:1–16. He charged the graduands to prioritize personal spiritual discipline, intimacy with God, and consistent fellowship with Him as the foundation for effective and sustainable ministry. During the presentation of awards, graduands of the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry were provided with ministry tools, including a Study Bible and two series on the Life of Christ, to support their ministerial engagement and discipleship work.
The events were well attended by graduands, family members, church representatives, and invited guests, creating an atmosphere of joy, celebration, reflection, and fellowship. Altogether, the workshop and graduation ceremony reaffirmed the college’s commitment to ministerial renewal, leadership development, theological education, and the preparation of spiritually grounded and contextually relevant leaders for the church and society.
