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Christian Leadership Cohort

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Thank you for your interest in participating in this Leadership Cohort. This fourteen-session cohort is designed to equip church members with biblical convictions and practical leadership skills for faithful service in Christ’s church. Because discussion, participation, and relationships are central to the cohort, class size is limited. This cohort will be led by Pastor Ryan on Wednesday nights at 6:30pm, starting August 26 and completing on December 16, 2026.

Please complete the application below.

Leadership Cohort Application

Because this cohort is highly interactive, participants are expected to:

-Attend all fourteen sessions whenever reasonably possible.

-Complete assigned Scripture readings and book readings before each session.

-Participate actively in class discussions.

-Demonstrate a teachable spirit and Christlike character.

-Support the unity and mission of First Baptist Church.

-Maintain confidentiality regarding personal stories or sensitive information shared during class discussions.

As part of a Doctor of Ministry leadership development project, participants will be asked to complete brief surveys before and after the cohort. These surveys are intended to help evaluate the effectiveness of the leadership training and improve future leadership development efforts.

Please read the following carefully.

-I understand that my name and email address will be collected solely for communication regarding the Leadership Cohort.

-I understand that my contact information will not be shared with anyone outside the leadership of this project and will not be published.

-I understand that survey results may be summarized and included in research reports or publications, but no participant names or personally identifying information will ever be included.

-I understand that participation in the surveys is voluntary and that reasonable efforts will be made to protect the confidentiality of all collected information.

By submitting this application, I affirm that the information provided is accurate, that I have read the expectations for participation, and that I desire to be considered for the Leadership Cohort.

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Info Email to Church

Email August 4, 2026

Church family,


One of my greatest desires for First Baptist Church is that we become a church that is continually developing faithful men and women who are equipped to serve Christ wherever He calls them. Healthy churches don’t simply fill ministry positions. They intentionally develop disciples who are prepared to lead with biblical conviction, Christlike humility, and servant-hearted love.

That is the vision behind our new “Leadership Cohort,” to be held on Wednesday nights this fall from 6:30-8:00pm. The purpose of this cohort is to equip emerging leaders to serve effectively in every area of our church—from small groups and ministry teams to committees, children’s ministry, student ministry, deacon ministry, and beyond.

This cohort is open to any member (or attender) of First Baptist Church who desires to grow spiritually and explore how God may use them in greater ways of service. You do not need to currently hold a leadership position to participate. If you are teachable, faithful, and eager to grow, I encourage you to prayerfully considering signing up. Over the course of fourteen sessions, we will study what Scripture teaches about leadership while discussing topics such as:

  • The Gospel and Leadership
  • Wisdom and Decision-Making
  • Character and Integrity
  • Servant Leadership
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Biblical Conviction
  • Teaching God’s Word
  • Leadership Multiplication
  • God’s Kingdom and the Great Commission
  • Investing in the Next Generation

In addition to our class discussions, participants will complete weekly Scripture readings, read several excellent books together (provided free of charge), and come prepared to actively participate in each session. Because this cohort is designed to be interactive and discussion-oriented, regular attendance and preparation are important expectations for everyone who participates. Participants will also be asked to commit themselves to:

  • Pursuing consistent spiritual growth through prayer and God’s Word.
  • Attending each session faithfully and arriving prepared.
  • Participating in discussions and completing assigned readings.
  • Demonstrating Christlike humility, teachability, and integrity.
  • Supporting the unity and ministry of First Baptist Church.
  • Maintaining appropriate confidentiality during group discussions.

Because meaningful discussion is an important part of the experience, space will be limited. If more people apply than we can accommodate, participants will be selected based on prayerful consideration and the goal of building a balanced cohort. If you are interested in applying, please complete the application found at the link below by August 23. Cohort sessions begin alongside our Midweek Kickoff on August 26th, and will go through December 16th.

I truly believe the Lord desires to raise up the next generation of leaders from within our own church family. Whether your future involves leading a small group, serving as a deacon, teaching children, discipling others, or simply becoming more effective in your current ministry, I believe this cohort will encourage and equip you.

I hope you’ll prayerfully consider joining us!

In Christ,

Ryan Gilbert

Lead Pastor