Excellence in all Things and all things for Christ

About the The D. James Kennedy Institute of Reformed Leadership

The D. James Kennedy Institute of Reformed Leadership is dedicated to equipping Christians with biblically grounded training in leadership, theology, and cultural engagement from a Reformed perspective. Inspired by the legacy of D. James Kennedy, the Institute seeks to raise up thoughtful, courageous leaders who can faithfully apply the truths of Scripture to every sphere of life.


Through accessible courses, practical teaching, and theological depth, the Institute helps pastors, ministry leaders, and laypeople grow in their understanding of the Christian faith and develop the skills needed to lead with conviction and wisdom. Rooted in the historic traditions of the Reformation, the Institute aims to prepare a new generation of leaders to serve the church, influence culture, and advance the gospel with clarity and confidence.
Under the laws of the State of North Carolina, institutions whose educational programs are devoted to theology, divinity, religious education, or preparation for religious vocations may qualify for exemption from certain state licensure requirements governing post-secondary education. North Carolina General Statute §116-15(d) provides that institutions offering programs primarily for religious instruction or training for ministry are not subject to the standard licensure requirements that apply to other degree-granting institutions. Additionally, nonprofit schools conducted by religious institutions may be exempt from certain proprietary school regulations under North Carolina law.

The Institute operates as a ministry unit of Faith for Living, Inc., a North Carolina nonprofit corporation recognized as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As a ministry of Faith for Living, Inc., the Institute shares in the organization’s mission of advancing Christian discipleship, leadership development, and biblically grounded education for the church and the broader culture.

I needed on-the-job training after my seminary years.

The Shepherd’s Path is a pastoral residency delivered online and in-parish with pastoral supervision.
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Benefits

The DJK Institute Pastoral Residency

The Shepherd’s Path Pastoral Residency provides newly ordained pastors with a structured pathway from seminary preparation to sustained pastoral ministry. Built on years of research into pastoral formation and clergy well-being, the program combines online theological reflection with supervised, in-parish ministry experience. Over the course of twelve months, residents engage in a competency-based process that integrates theologia and praxis—uniting the study of God’s Word with the daily realities of shepherding the flock of Christ. Through guided mentoring, peer interaction, and practical ministry assignments, the residency strengthens the pastor’s calling while helping to prevent the isolation, burnout, and early departure from ministry that too often follow the first years of service.

Guided Transition from Seminary to Parish Life

Residents receive structured mentoring and supervision during the crucial first year of ministry, helping them translate theological education into faithful pastoral leadership in the local church.

Integrated Learning: Online and In-Parish

Residents participate in online lectures and guided reflection while serving in their own ministry contexts, ensuring that learning occurs alongside real-life pastoral responsibilities.

Competency-Based Pastoral Formation

The residency focuses on twelve core pastoral competencies—ranging from preaching and shepherding to pastoral care and spiritual leadership—allowing pastors to grow intentionally in the essential practices of ministry.

A Community of Wisdom and Accountability

The program encourages feedback from mentors, peers, lay leaders, family members, and others in the life of the church, creating a supportive environment that fosters resilience, spiritual maturity, and long-term faithfulness in ministry.
TEACHING

Meet Our Faculty

Dr. R. J. Gore
Dr. George Grant
Dr. D. James Kennedy (1930-2007)
Dr. Michael A. Milton
Dr. Rebecca Rine
Dr. Harry Reeder (1952-2023)

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Residency is just one course. The Pastoral Training Model is a comprehensive pastoral education and training ministry that follows a Christian shepherd from calling to post-active service.

INTERNSHIP • RESIDENCY • FELLOWSHIP • LIFELONG LEARNING • KEEPER OF MEANING
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