In late October, in Lakeview Terrace, Calif., hosted 30 participants with five Master Trainers to launch a (TLTI) center.
TLTI is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich. Administrative director Jennifer Owens said, āIt makes sense to locate another [training center] on the other side of the country to increase access points for training. It helps us develop a connection with the churches on the west coast, and is a location that is easily accessible from many Asian countries, which may be easier to reach with TLTI through U.S.-based training.ā
Rev. Sid Sybenga, pastor of , Arcadia, Calif., said, āThe world gathers in Los Angeles. Twenty of the 30 participants were from our classis. I see TLTI as a potential āpastors without bordersā movement and as a āretirement with a missionā ministry for both clergy and lay leaders.ā
TLTI opens opportunities for trained participants to carry the training to other leaders in their church communities. Through reflective groups and action plans, TLTI offers participants tangible opportunities to exercise their learning.
Rev. Tae Kim, pastor of All Nations Church, said, āMore than anything, I am glad that having [the center] in L.A. made it more accessible to local pastors and leaders. I see more benefits in building up leaders as I continue in this program. Especially I think this is a great tool in equipping lay leaders who donāt have time and money for professional ministry training. It was nice to see that there are some revisions in the material, which encourages me that TLTI is being sensitive to various needs and contexts.ā
About the Author
Shashi DeHaan is the Banner's regional news correspondent for classes Arizona and Red Mesa.