Instructor(s)

Course Description

This course surveys the history, polity and the core convictions, practices and concerns that have marked theology within the International Central Gospel Church. The course will include an exploration of denominational identity, hidden histories within the denomination, case studies around current issues of polity and structure, ordinances, current ecumenical conversations, emerging trends within the ICGC, and more. It will thus serve as preparation for a pastoral ministry in any ICGC context, whether in the local churches or in any of its agencies (ICGC educational institutions, ICGC NGOs, mission societies, associations, etc).

Course Objectives

Upon the successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of ICGC history, polity, and theology by communicating it to others.
2. Integrate the core values of ICGC as part of pastoral identity.
3. Demonstrate the ability to articulate a theology and practice of ministry consistent with the history and polity of ICGC.
4. Appraise the ways ecumenical and interfaith relationships shape and influence ICGC and are influenced by ICGC.

Course Content

Topics

1. Christ as the Head of the Church Universal and ICGC
2. The Life and Calling of Mensa Otabil 
3. Otabil Afrocentric Theology
4. The Neo-Pentecostal roots of ICGC
5. History, Vision, Mission and Core Values of ICGC 
6. Theological Foundations of the ICGC, its ordinances and ordination
7. The forming the Theology of ICGC
8. Music and Liturgy in the Church
9. Stories from Greater Works conferences.
10. Local Church and Ecclesiastical Polity of ICGC: Nature and administration of the Local Church; Regional, District and General Structure; Auxiliary ministries within the Church
11. The Social Gospel and Agencies of ICGC
12. Writings and Sermons of Mensa Otabil
13. Marriage, Family and Sexuality in ICGC
14. Global Missions and Church Planting in the Church
15. Geographical and demographic spread of the local churches
16. Strategic Plan of ICGC (2030)
17. Managing Projects in ICGC
18. Church Service and Event Organisation
19. Shaping Pastoral Ministry and Ethics
20. ICGC Spirituality – Bible study, prayer, fasting, conventions, etc.
21. Current ecumenical conversations and interfaith relations.
22. The Future of ICGC Denomination in the World.

Mode of Delivery

Students will learn from reading, classroom discussions, course assignments, and lectures.