About CREDO
The CREDO Experience
In Latin, CREDO can be translated to mean "I believe." But its deeper meaning is "I give my heart." At that deeper level, participation in a CREDO conference becomes a work of the mind, heart, and spirit.
CREDO is much more than a "how-to" workshop — it is a faith-based collaboration aimed at unifying the disparate, often conflicting, elements at work in the life of a minister. It is based on the core belief in the saving power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ as expressed in the Baptismal Covenant.
The Presbyterian CREDO conference provides time for clergy to step back from the non-stop pace of ordained ministry. CREDO provides a foundation for participants to embrace wellness and to prayerfully discern the direction of their personal and professional lives. It addresses, individually and in community, the questions of "Who am I?" and "Who is God calling me to be?"
Each participant commits to extensive reflection through pre-conference instruments and surveys that focus on personal and professional wellness. The eight-day curriculum is designed to trigger personal discovery through guided reflection, introspection, and dialogue.
Background
The Board of Pensions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is particularly concerned with the well-being of pastors who serve the church. We know that spiritual, physical and financial issues can directly and indirectly affect a person's holistic health. The Board has conducted research that has shown that these areas are of particular concern to pastors serving out congregations. In addition, the Report on Clergy Recruitment and Retention written by the Board's Task Force in 2004 after a yearlong study, encouraged the Board of Pensions to address issues related to clergy wellness and burnout.
The Board of Pensions funds Presbyterian CREDO with a bequest received through its Assistance Program.