Sample Encounter

There is something very important about face-to-face interaction.  While there is much that can be learned online, life transformation happens optimally life-on-life.  The model of Christ with his disciples was time spent doing life and ministry together, with in-depth dialogue along the way.  The closer we imitate the model of Jesus, the better the result.  The CREST Program is highly relational with great conversations as the primary connection.

When you enrol in the CREST Leadership program, you will participate in 8 Encounters – each a two-day experience with your cohort where you encounter God and others.  The experience is led by trained CREST facilitators who understand the dynamic necessary for life transformation.  The experience includes:

  • Pre-assigned reading.  Students have prepared themselves by reading assigned books before the Encounter.  This enables the conversation to jump-start into significant dialogue.
  • Arrival.  Mid-life adults are busy.  It’s hard to carve out two full days, but upon arrival, you will begin to feel relief from life pressures and look forward to quality time with new friends.
  • Spiritual formation.  We begin by tuning our hearts to God.  We want to hear from him, and we have to slow down our engines to hear the still, small voice.
  • Curriculum modules.  Course curriculum is prepared with high quality printed materials presented in 90 minute segments spread throughout the Encounter.  The aim of each module is to get informed dialogue happening around a specific subject.
  • Small Group discussions. Within each Encounter there are numerous times provided for more intimate dialogue in small groups.  This opens the door for God to do deep work.
  • Experiential Learning exercises.  CREST is more than just verbal dialogue. In CREST, growth also comes through learning games and experiences.
  • Transformation.  This is the part God does.  We cannot change anyone.  We provide the optimal environment for students, if they engage thoroughly, to be changed by God.
  • Day schedule.  Encounters begin at noon on Day 1 and end just before noon on Day 3.
  • Post Encounter.  For you to have really learned something it must show up in your real life.  After each Encounter you will be sent an email with some practical assignments that help you implement the major learning from the Encounter.