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The Potomac School of Ministry is designed to provide foundational and continuing ministerial education for pastors, individuals pursuing Assemblies of God credentials, and Christian workers. The interactive relational learning in a vivacious spiritual context will provide spiritual formation in every dimension of the student's life. The Potomac School of Ministry uniquely combines home study, classroom instruction, and relationships with highly qualified mentors to create a superior quality of instruction. The instructors are experienced, ordained pastors and college professors.

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READY TO EXPLORE YOUR NEXT STEP?

Interested in pursuing credentials or taking Bible classes for personal enrichment? Explore the possibilities with the Potomac School of Ministry (PSOM)!

VIRTUAL CLASSROOM

Meets Monthly, 2nd Saturday | September – June

LOW COST TUITION

PSOM’s structure consists of 3 credential level programs – Certified, Licensed, Ordained – each completed in 3 easy steps:

  • APPLY – Admission to PSOM, One-time fee $25.00

  • REGISTER – Enroll in appropriate level courses, $110.00 each class

    • Buy textbooks, prices vary from a variety of distributors

    • Complete assigned course work

    • Attend online class

    • Take exam

    • Submit all coursework to PSOM office

    • Repeat monthly classes

  • MENTORSHIP – Register at the beginning of each program level for a 9-month course with a PSOM approved mentor, complete the coursework, final exam, and receive the mentor’s feedback. This is the only PASS/FAIL course in the PSOM program.

  • AUDIT – Not sure PSOM is for you? Try before you apply with a class audit. This option enables prospective students to experience the PSOM structure, without the final exam requirement. Fee is $25. Note: Should you decide to apply to PSOM, the audited class will not count towards program completion.

To read our full statement of purpose and structure, download a PSOM catalog.

 2024-2025 CLASS SCHEDULE

All classes* have a ONE-TIME virtual instruction date on a select Saturday from 9am-2pm. See schedule below to view 2024-2025 dates. The registration deadline for each class is approximately 2-3 weeks prior to the scheduled date for that class. Students should anticipate needing to complete up to 15 hours worth of reading and homework prior to the virtual class. Classes include 5 hours of instruction (via Zoom) and an exam at the conclusion. Courses do not have to be completed in the order shown on the schedule and are not prerequisite to each other. Simply choose the courses that meet your schedule or interests and contact us with any questions!

*Mentorship Classes (MIN 191, MIN 291 and MIN 391) include different requirements and are to be scheduled individually based on the availability of the student and mentor.

CLICK (+) BELOW TO EXPAND DETAILS

  • SEPTEMBER 14, 9AM - 2PM
    BIB 214 | Old Testament Survey: A study of the Old Testament books acquainting the student with key facts in each book. The development of God’s plan of redemption throughout the Old Testament canon is highlighted.

    OCTOBER 12, 9AM- 2PM
    THE 114 | Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine: An introduction to the meaning and purpose of theology and historic Christian doctrines. Emphasis will be placed upon the Statement of Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God as the framework for this study.

    NOVEMBER 9, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 212 | New Testament Survey: An overview of the New Testament books, emphasizing each book's key facts and teachings. Applications to contemporary life and ministry are included.

    DECEMBER 14, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 181 | Relationships and Ethics in Ministry: An examination of the moral principles governing human conduct in light of the teachings of Scripture. Special attention is given to the minister’s marital and family life, professional code of ethics, and contemporary personal and social issues.

    JANUARY 11, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 114 | Christ in the Synoptic Gospels: A study of the life and teachings of Jesus as recorded in the gospels and in light of the first century's historical, cultural, and geographical settings. The course emphasizes the ministry of John the Baptist, the proclamation of the kingdom of God, the miracles and parables of Jesus, the passion, the resurrection, and messianic titles.

    FEBRUARY 8, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 121 | Introduction to Hermeneutics: An introduction to various Bible study methods, with particular attention given to basic principles of scriptural interpretation. Emphasis is placed on devotional aspects of study for personal edification.

    MARCH 8, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 171 | Spirit-Empowered Church: A study of dynamic church growth as portrayed in the Acts 2 church model: creating Spirit-empowered disciples who are involved in purposeful activities to change individuals, families, and communities with the love and power of God’s mighty Spirit.

    APRIL 12, 9AM-2PM
    THE 142 | AG History, Missions, and Governance: A study of the Assemblies of God's historical development and governing policies. The Fellowship’s history in America and its worldwide missionary program is told through stories of the personalities involved. Includes a study of the ecclesiastical structure of the Assemblies of God, with particular attention to the General Council Constitution and Bylaws concerning credentialed ministers, local churches, district councils, the General Council, and doctrines and practices that are approved and disapproved.

    MAY 10, 9AM-2PM
    THE 211 | Introduction to Theology: An introduction to theology and a detailed study of the following theological areas: Bibliology, Theology Proper, Christology, Anthropology, Soteriology, Pneumatology, and Ecclesiology.

    *SCHEDULED BETWEEN STUDENT & MENTOR
    MIN 191 | Beginning Ministerial Mentorship: A practical ministry experience that fulfills the Assemblies of God internship requirements for credentialing at the certified level.

  • SEPTEMBER 14, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 115 | ACTS: A detailed study of the origin and development of the apostolic church. The course emphasizes the Church’s mission in its proclamation of the death and resurrection of Jesus. Included is an overview of Paul’s missionary journeys.

    OCTOBER 12, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 223: INTRODUCTION TO HOMILETICS: A study dealing with sermon delivery that provides a hands-on approach to developing sermon preparation skills. The course content addresses audience analysis, the speaker’s physical appearance, gestures, credibility, voice usage, and personality.

    NOVEMBER 9, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 123 | LOCAL CHURCH EVANGELISM:
    This course provides the theology behind the Great Commission. The role of the Holy Spirit and the responsibility of believers in Evangelism is emphasized. This course addresses an integrated approach to evangelism within the local church. The focus is on various methods for effective personal evangelism and pastoral leadership in evangelism.

    DECEMBER 14, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 245 | ESCHATOLOGY:
    An advanced study of the doctrine of last things, including topics such as death, Resurrection and Rapture, views of the Tribulation, millennial views, judgment, and the final state of the righteous and the wicked.

    JANUARY 11, 9AM-2PM:
    MIN 261 | INTRODUCTION TO AG MISSIONS:
    An introductory course in the science of missions. It is a survey of the theology, history and methods of Christian missions in general and within the Assemblies of God.

    FEBRUARY 8, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 117 | PRISON EPISTLES (EPHESIANS):
    This is a practical study of the letters Paul wrote to the churches while in prison. Emphasis is placed on understanding biblical principles such as: justification by faith, marriage and family relationships, the believer’s identity and maturity in Christ, spiritual fruitfulness, spiritual warfare, and more.

    MARCH 8, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 281 | CONFLICT MANAGEMENT:
    A study devoted to the resolution of conflict in the local church. The reasons for churches becoming unhealthy and how God wants to heal them are examined. The lordship of Jesus Christ and His methodology in resolving conflict form the basis of this study.

    APRIL 12, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 215 | ROMANS:
    A practical study of Paul’s letter to the Romans. The course deals with the book’s background and its relation to the rest of Paul’s writings. The book’s relevance to every day Christian living is a featured theme.

    MAY 10, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 251 | EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP:
    A study of the principles of leadership, applicable to all phases of life and ministry. Practical applications are offered to help students use these principles in the local church situation.

    *SCHEDULED BETWEEN STUDENT & MENTOR
    MIN 291 | LICENSED LEVEL INTERNSHIP:
    A practical ministry experience that fulfills the Assemblies of God internship requirements for credentialing at the licensed level including the pastor’s call, preaching, teaching, church leadership, family life, and more.

  • SEPTEMBER 14, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 313 | CORINTHIAN CORRESPONDENCE:
    An expository study of First and Second Corinthians. Paul’s responses to the problems afflicting the Corinthian church, the appropriate operation of the gifts of the Spirit within the congregation, and Paul’s views of Christian character and ministry are highlighted.

    OCTOBER 12, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 318 | THE PENTATEUCH:
    An in-depth study of the first five books of the Old Testament. Highlighting God’s personal relationship with His creation and the loving covenants made with His people, the study examines the Pentateuch’s revelation of God’s character and the requirements for a relationship with Him.

    NOVEMBER 9, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 325 | PREACHING IN THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD:
    The principles, process, and problems of communicating from one culture to another. Special attention is given to the development of attitudes and methods enabling effective communication of the gospel to people in other cultures.

    DECEMBER 12, 9AM-2PM
    BIB 322 | THE POETIC BOOKS:
    A study of the Psalms as the Hebrew-Christian prayer book and hymnal. The course includes a study of selected Psalms, noting the authorship, historical setting, structure, meaning, and spiritual application of each. Also studied are the classification of the Psalms, the Messianic applications and citations of Psalms in the New Testament, and their function in the Early Church.

    JANUARY 11, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 381 | PASTORAL MINISTRY:
    A study of the practical aspects of pastoral ministry, including the pastor’s call, preaching, teaching, church leadership, family life, and more.

    FEBRUARY 8, 9AM-2PM
    MIN 327: CHURCH ADMINISTRATION, FINANCE AND LAW:
    A study of American ecclesiastical law, addressing contemporary legal issues affecting churches and ministers.

    MARCH 8, 9AM-2PM
    THE 311 | THEOLOGY OF PRAYER AND WORSHIP:
    A study of biblical prayer stressing the importance and impact of prayer in contemporary life and ministry, including an exploration of the scriptural and theological foundations for individual and corporate praise and worship. Various styles and formats of worship are discussed relative to both historical and contemporary settings.

    *SCHEDULED BETWEEN STUDENT & MENTOR
    MIN 391 | ADVANCED MINISTERIAL MENTORSHIP: A practical ministry experience that fulfills the Assemblies of God internship requirements for credentialing at the ordained level.

START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY

READY TO APPLY?

Click below to complete an application for Potomac School of Ministry. This is required for any level of entry in the program (Certified, Licensed Ordained.)

STILL UNSURE?

Still deciding if pursuing ministry credentials is right for you? Click below to “audit” a class for personal enrichment at a minimal fee.

POINTs OF CONTACt

Debbie Gillispie
Administrator of Potomac School of Ministry
(703) 753-0300 ext 2017
dgillispie@potomacag.org

Bobby Basham
Assistant Director of Potomac School of Ministry
Bbasham@potomacag.org

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THE POTOMAC SCHOOL OF MINISTRY IS A RELIGIOUS INSTITUTION EXEMPT FROM STATE REGULATION AND OVERSIGHT IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA.