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Continuing education helps the minister of music maintain his/her skills at a level consistent with others in the profession, which keeps him/her viable for ministry. Initial education ventures (undergraduate or graduate) are only the beginning, for ministry itself is a career of continued learning. Continuing education is so important that many denominations now require annual continuing education units (CEUs) for the minister to continue parish ministry. Instead of feeling guilty for being away from the church for training, ministers should seek opportunities for continuing education. The time spent participating in continuing education activities will likely increase your ministry productivity in the long run.

The following represent reasons why ministers of music need continuing education: (1) Needs of ministers change in different life situations; (2) Different churches have different expectations for ministers of music; (3) The fields of music and worship are continually changing and call for new skills; (4) Music ministers become burned out when they are not exposed to new ideas and do not have time to interact with others in their profession; and (5) Ministry requires giving great amounts of one's self, sometimes without significant opportunity to receive from others.

Developing a Plan

Before choosing continuing education activities, spend time carefully evaluating yourself so that your continuing education activities adequately address your present and long-term needs.