Overview

Traditional leadership in this region of the world is hierarchical and male, therefore accepting Jesus’ model of servant leadership is an enormous leadership challenge.

Making room for women to use their leadership gifts is also highly counter cultural. Pastors often do not receive leadership or management training, beyond traditional theological studies, making them ill-equipped to lead their churches. Christian leaders face rapidly changing political situations, economic challenges, persecution and ongoing conflict and are seeking training to know how to respond.

DAI’s Response

DAI began by primarily serving pastors. Then the training spread to elder boards, then to business leaders and recently to younger leaders. Today a variety of DAI programs are extremely popular, including strategic thinking for church leaders who are trying to help the ancient church adapt to modern opportunities and challenges.

Marriage seminars have touched a great need as Christians living in a primarily Muslim culture sort through what beliefs are cultural and which are biblical. Also popular are the retreats for younger leaders full of interactive sessions, worship and prayer. A spiritual formation course is also offered in a number of seminaries in the region meeting a deep spiritual hunger among participants.