Leap of Faith
Christian Chaplain Ministry

Trusting God is a spiritual pilgrimage.
Don’t make the journey to eternity alone.

Introduction
I am a semi-retired professional educator (adjunct college professor) who has provided decades of volunteer services to my country and local communities. This includes military service (Navy), Air Force Auxiliary (Civil Air Patrol), local School Board and college Christian Club.

At this stage in my life (senior citizen) I will be providing non-denominational, religious oriented training and services as a Part-Time, Volunteer, Licensed Chaplain Minister to the local community.

I attend a local church, but my Chaplaincy ministry is not affiliated with it. Services will be online via Zoom and focus on Bible Studies.









Journey to Chaplaincy

 Journey to Chaplaincy Parable of the ‘Lost Seed’ Once upon a time, a twelve-year old boy felt a calling from God. A ‘Daniels Week’ later he met God on a sidewalk; kneeling down next to a parking meter, which was a fitting expression of doubting faith, since he was a loner and well acquainted with the streets and back alleys of his hometown. As it was at the beginning of creation, when the “evening and morning were the first day” (Genesis 1:5) so it was that night, when the young man became a new creation. And the Holy Spirit of God sowed seeds of Faith, Hope and Love into a willing heart. Faith and Love were large seeds which attached themselves to the outer shell of the young man’s heart. However, his faith and love for fellow man grew shallow over a few years because of the ‘thorns of life’ where the “worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.” (Matthew 13:22) The young man’s heart became calloused; with sin-skinned scars; as it lost its way over time through a wilderness excursion of confusion, bad life choices, fruitless searches for existence and finally personal rejection. But the Holy Spirit of God who “hovered over the waters” in creation (Genesis 1:2) made the seed of Hope purposely small so it could work its way down into the soft, fertile recesses of the hidden, inner heart of the young man. Despite the tempest tossed failings of life, that small seed slowly made roots, deep and strong which eventually made their way upward over decades of time. Embedded within the seed were two fledgling baby seeds of Faith and Love. Together they emerged and continued to grow as a late-in-life palm tree awaiting the ‘later-day rain’; whose witness branches boldly proclaim the coming of the King of Kings with a chorus of “Baruch haba b'Shem Adonai!” “It will come about after this, That I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; And your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams. Your young men will see visions.” (Joel 2:28) “I delight to do Your will O my God. Your Law is written in my heart.” (Ps. 40:8) “Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take away Your Holy Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners will be converted to you. (Ps. 51:10-13) “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart, O God You will not despise.” (Ps. 51:17) My journey to Chaplaincy can be best represented by the slow growth of the Talipot Palm Tree. “The talipot palm is another gargantuan plant (compared to other palms), which grows up to 25 meters (82 ft) high and has a one-meter-thick trunk. Also, its branched inflorescence is a remarkable six to eight meters (19 to 26 ft) tall—the largest of any plant. It takes extreme patience to see this tree in bloom, as it only flowers once when it is 30 to 80 years old. However, seeing the bloom is somewhat bittersweet, as it means the palm’s life is coming to an end. It expends all of its built-up energy to produce golf ball-sized fruit, which rain down by the hundreds of thousands just before the palm dies." May the Lord in my sunset years produce through me a harvest like the Talipot Palm. Reference: Grant, S. "10 Of The Slowest Plants To Ever Bloom." ListVerse, 13 Aug. 2013, listverse.com/2013/08/11/10-ridiculously-slow-to-bloom-plants/. 

Leap of Faith Vision Statement

     

 The Purpose of the Leap of Faith online ministry is to disseminate the Knowledge of God, His Goodness, His Redemption for mankind and how to live a godly life in preparation for an eternal destiny of infinite love with Him the Eternal Father. The Christian Faith rests on three pillars in which all worship and religious observance lies. These are: 1. “GOD CREATED US – The Bible teaches that God made us so that we could know Him and live with Him.” (MWTB) We are created in the image of the Triune God and comprised of a mortal body, soul (mind, intellect, emotions) and spirit. “So, God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; …” (Genesis 1:27, 28 NASB) 2. “SIN SEPARATED US – Then we sinned and were separated from God. Sin is anything we do that goes against what God wants.” (MWTB) Adam and Eve broke the bond with our Creator and all mankind since then has inherited a sinful nature. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23 NASB) 3. “JESUS DIED FOR US – God loves us so much that He sent Jesus (Yeshua) – His only SON – to die for us. Through Jesus (Yeshua), we can be brought back to God.” (MWTB) This is called being ‘born again’. Jesus (Yeshua) said “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6 NASB) References MOMENTS WITH THE BOOK Bible Tract New American Standard Bible 1995 

Chaplain Services 

Chaplain Minister

Who will I minister to as a Chaplain? As a Chaplain I will provide spiritual guidance to those in the Hillsboro-Deering, NH area who are First Responders: law enforcement, fire department, paramedics and national guard/military. (Phase 1) Why First Responders? Because they are the guardians of public safety, committed to preserving life and property and who need a spiritual foundation in which to frame and enhance the altruism inherent in their professions for the welfare of others. Ministerial support to the Local Senior Citizen Center is a possibility (Phase 2). Why Senior Citizens? Because they (including myself) are closer to eternity! My ministry will initially provide biweekly, non-denominational, Bible Studies. All sessions are conducted Online via Zoom. This Bible Study is not intended to be a Bible College ‘deep dive’ into Christian Theology. It has been structured to provide fundamentals of the Christian Faith to include Basic Christian Doctrine and Christian Living which reinforces responsible citizenry. I use the 'Parallel Bible' for Scripture readings. It is two Bible versions in parallel columns under one cover which are the New American Standard Bible (NASB) and the Amplified Bible. But other Bible versions can be used like the King James (KJV), New King James (NKJV), English Standard Version (ESV), Revised Standard Version (RSV), New International Version (NIV) and Catholic Douay-Rheims American (DRA). There are two exceptions: the JW Watchtower Bible and LDS Mormon Bible will not be used. Online Service Itinerary Phase 1 - First Responders & Military Tuesday evening online sessions (6:30 - 7:30 pm) 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month Opening Prayer & Moment of silence for the fallen Bible Study (30 min.) & Discussion (30 min.) Closing Prayer Note: Requires a Bible to follow Scriptural verses. There is a potential for future ministry expansion to the local community for Senior Citizenry. Potential Phase 2 - Senior Citizens Tuesday evening online sessions (6:30 - 7:30 pm) 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month Opening Prayer Bible Study (30 min.) & Discussion (30 min.) Closing Prayer Note: Requires a Bible to follow Scriptural verses.

Portfolio

  • Education & Work History

  • Christian Leaders Institute Student Transcript

Bible-Theology-Ministry Studies

Diploma of Divinity & Diploma of Ministry

Christian Leaders Institute
https://www.christianleadersinstitute.org/

These are Christian ministerial credentials requiring college level coursework in Bible/Theology and Ministry Studies which took me over seven years to complete.

Total Institute Credit Hours: 119 - Cumulative GPA: 3.988


Licensed Chaplain Minister

Christian Alliance
https://christianleadersalliance.org/cla-homepage

The Licensed Chaplain Minister program with a Senior Adult Specialization is comprised of coursework supplementing the Diplomas of Divinity and Ministry.

My clergy member status as a Licensed Chaplain Minister with profile are recorded on the Christian Leaders Alliance website. This clergy status is designed especially for volunteer chaplains at prisons, hospitals, care facilities, businesses, police, and fire departments.

Christian Leaders Alliance Minister Directory
https://www.christianleadersalliance.org/minister-directory

My clergy recognition qualifies me for the following roles:
  • Ministry Chaplaincy
  • Weddings
  • Baptisms, Christenings and Dedications
  • Funerals
  • The Lord’s Supper
  • Professions of Faith
  • Confessions of Sin
  • Forgiveness Prayers and Ceremonies
  • Anointing Ceremonies
  • Care Facilities Visits
  • Spiritual Warfare
  • Master of Ceremony Events



Bethel Series

https://www.bethelbibleseries.org

Its Mission

The Bethel Series was a two-year intensive thematic approach to Bible Study (40 lessons covering all 66 Bible Books) designed to train instructors who in turn will lead church members into a disciplined study of Scripture in such a way that they encounter the Living Christ.


Christian leaders institute & Christian leaders alliance

What is the Statement of Faith for the Christian Leaders Institute?

Christian Leaders Institute

Christian Leaders Institute is non-denominational and draws from the rich biblical perspectives that resonate in many denominations and traditions of Christianity.

At Christian Leaders Institute (CLI), we firmly believe in the power of unity in Christ. Ephesians 4:3 instructs us, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace,” underlining the transformative impact of Christian leadership.

CLI also embraces many Christian traditions as a well-rounded educational institution. We honor the Bible as the Word of God while acknowledging and valuing the diversity of perspectives within the Christian community. Our commitment is to foster an environment where we can learn from one another and work together to serve God’s kingdom.

Statement of Faith

This Statement of Faith was adopted by Christian Leaders Institute when CLI began offering classes in 2006. Since then, the Christian Leaders Institute Statement of Faith has guided the development of the classes and worldview.

The Bible

The Bible is God’s inerrant, infallible, reliable Word, the only final authority for faith and life. (Proverbs 30:5-6; Isaiah 8:20; John 10:35; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:21)

Who is God?

God is Trinity, an eternal, loving unity of three divine Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; John 14:26; 2 Corinthians 13:14)

God Created the World

God created the universe ex nihilo, from nothing, and made all things very good. (Genesis 1-2; Exodus 20:11; Hebrews 11:3)

God Created Humanity

God created humanity in his image to glorify and enjoy God and to be stewards of creation. (Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 8; Isaiah 43:7; Revelation 4:11; Psalm 37:4)

The Fall

Humanity has fallen into sin, and we are totally unable to save ourselves. (Genesis 3; Romans 3:12, 23; Romans 5:12)

Who is Jesus?

Jesus, the promised Messiah of Israel, is fully God and fully man. (Matthew 1:21-23; John 1:1,14; 20:28; Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:14)

Jesus’ Life and Victory

Jesus was born of a virgin, obeyed God perfectly, worked great miracles, died on a cross, rose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and reigns over all things. (Luke 1:26-35, Hebrews 4:15; John 14:11, Luke 23-24, Ephesians 1:20-23)

Salvation is a Work of God

Salvation is merited only by Jesus’ perfect obedience and substitutionary atonement. (Isaiah 53; Hebrews 7:26-27; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Acts 4:12)

Salvation is Not Our Work

Salvation is entirely God’s gift, not our achievement, and is received by faith in Christ, not works. (John 3:16; Romans 1:16-17; Galatians 2:16-21)

The Holy Spirit was Sent to Earth and Fills Us

The Holy Spirit gives new birth, unites us to Christ, assures us of His love, leads us in His truth, forms us in His character, equips us with His gifts, and empowers us to be His ambassadors. (John 3:3-8; Acts 1:8; Romans 8; 1 Corinthians 12; Galatians 5:16-26; Ephesians 3:16-21)

The Church

The church is the one body of God’s people throughout all generations and from all nations. (Romans 12:5; Galatians 3:26-29; Ephesians 1:22-23; Revelation 7:9)

Angels of God

God’s holy angels defend and help God’s people. (Psalm 34:7, 91:11; Matthew 18:10; Hebrews 1:14)

Fallen Angels

Satan and other fallen angels are dangerous but doomed. Christ is victor. (Ephesians 6:10-18; Colossians 2:15; 1 Peter 5:8; Revelation 12:10-12

Christ Will Return and the Dead Will Be Raised

Christ will return visibly. The dead will be raised. Christ will rule the world and make all things new. (Matthew 24:30; 1Cor. 15:52, 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Revelation 21:1-5)
New Heaven and New Earth

God’s people will rejoice forever in the new heaven and new earth. God’s enemies will suffer forever in hell. (Daniel 12:2-3; Matthew 25:31-46; Revelation 22:1-5; 2 Thessalonians 1:9)

God Designed Marriage

Sexual intimacy is for marriage only. Christian marriage is a lifelong union of a man and a woman. (Genesis 2:22-25; Matthew 5:27-32; Matthew 19:3-9; 1 Corinthians 7:1-11)

God Relates to Families

God’s covenant addresses not only individuals but also their families. (Genesis 17:7; 18:19; Deuteronomy 7:9; Joshua 24;15; Psalm 103:17; Acts 11:14; 16:15,31)

We Are Able to Walk with God

As individuals, as couples, and as families, we need a daily conversation with God through Bible reading and prayer. (Psalm 1; Daniel 6:10; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)

We Love Because He Loved Us

God calls us to a holy life of love, as depicted in the Ten Commandments. (Exodus 20:1-17; Mark 12:30-31; John 14:15; Romans 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 13)

We Honor Christ in Everything

God calls us to a worldview and way of life in which we seek to honor Christ in every area of thought and action. (Psalm 24:1; Colossians 3:17; 2 Corinthians 10:5)

We Share the Good News

God calls us to spread the gospel to people who don’t yet follow Christ. (Psalm 96:3; Matthew 5:14; Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Peter 3:15)

What are the Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance?

History

In 2001, Henry Reyenga and the late Rich DeVos founded Christian Leaders as a Non-Profit to raise Christian leaders. One of the goals was to raise grassroots leaders who would help church leaders reach more people. The strategy was developed to create training and credentialing programs around ministry topics. These are useful for local pastors and churches to mobilize more local ministers for further local impact.

Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) started in 2006 by offering free courses for students to earn certificates, awards, and diploma credentials. January 1, 2015, brought a new dimension to CLI with the launch of the undergraduate degree programs. Degrees are earned through the Leadership Excellence School.

Religious Non-Profit

Christian Leaders Institute is recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This designation means that CLI operates as a tax-exempt entity under the United States Internal Revenue Code, allowing the focus to be on the educational mission without the burden of certain taxes. As a nonprofit, CLI can receive tax-deductible donations to support the effort of providing free ministry training to individuals around the world.

Accreditation

Christian Leaders does business as Christian Leaders College and holds applicant status with the Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation (5850 T. G. Lee Blvd., Ste. 130, Orlando, FL 32822, 407.207.0808). Applicant status is a pre-membership status granted to those institutions that meet the ABHE Conditions of Eligibility and that possess such qualities as may provide a basis for achieving candidate status within five years. seeking accreditation with ABHE as a United States Department of Education-recognized credentialing body. This accreditation applies to the tuition-free Christian Leaders College courses.

Locations

Christian Leaders Institute is located in Spring Lake, Michigan. The college staff oversees the work of the institute and the college. Much of the administration work of both the college and the institute is conducted at the Michigan location.
Office Hours: 9-3 Monday – Friday
17771 West Spring Lake Rd
Spring Lake, Michigan 49456
Phone Number: 616-777-0305
The administrative headquarters of CLI’s Leadership Excellence School is located in Largo, Florida.
7600 Bryan Dairy Rd
Suite B
Largo, Florida 33777
Phone Number: 727-230-1036

Minister Credentials

Minister Credentials are overseen through the Christian Leaders Alliance, which has a Global Ministers Commission, which is an international commission of licensed and ordained ministers.

What is the Global Ministers Commission of the Christian Leaders Alliance?

The Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA) is a global religious organization that credentials ministers from various Christian backgrounds, whether volunteers, part-time or full-time.

This Commission is the spiritual covering for the certification, licensing, and ordination process and program at Christian Leaders Alliance.

Global Ministers Commission provides credentialed ministers with a connecting point to encourage, inspire, and support current and future Christian Leaders Alliance minister members in their daily walk with Jesus Christ from a ministering credentialling point of view.

This Commission is led by Henry Reyenga, president of Christian Leaders, NFP., and Brian DeCook serves as the General Secretary. In serving the church worldwide, the Commission honors the diversity of opinions on women as credentialed ministers.

Many credentialed through the Christian Leaders Alliance also have local or denominational oversight for local ministry so in addition to CLA credentials, ministers can maintain credentials with another religious denomination, allowing dual affiliations.

The network comprises thousands of officiants and ministers, including field, licensed, ordained, Chaplain, or coaching ministers.

Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA) Minister Credentialing Process

Complete Bible and Ministry Training at the Christian Leaders Institute (CLI): CLI and CLA offer over 200 comprehensive courses and mini-courses designed for aspiring ministers. Successful completion of these courses will earn you ministry credentials.

Choose a Ministry Path Aligned with Your Calling and Skills: The Ordination Program offers various minister roles, including:
Wedding Officiant
Field Minister
Licensed Minister
Coaching Minister
Ordained Minister

Enroll in a Recognition Program Tailored to Your Chosen Role: After selecting a minister role, you can enroll in a program that specifically acknowledges and supports your area of focus. You also have the opportunity to pursue specialized studies.

Submit to a Minister Credential Process, including Local Endorsements

Become Posted on the Global Ordination Directory
  • Christian Leaders Alliance post the newly credentialed ministers in the Christian Leaders Alliance Minister Directory. (https://www.christianleadersalliance.org/minister-directory/)
  • Credentialed Ministers of the Christian Leaders Alliance are eligible to register a Soul Center. 

spiritual affirmations

Leap of FaithTrusting God is a lifelong journey. Don’t travel alone. Is Jesus your Rock of Salvation?

Leap of FaithTrusting God is a lifelong journey. Don’t travel alone. Is Jesus your Rock of Salvation?

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Contact

  • Hillsboro Center, New Hampshire, United States