Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this program for?
The Leader’s Way is for Episcopal clergy who have been in active ministry for 5 or more years who want to expand self-awareness, reconnect with their calling, and imagine what’s possible in ministry and the Church. This program is for people who understand that this shift requires deep soul work and a stretching of the heart and mind in ways that can be uncomfortable yet incredibly rewarding. 

What are the Learning Outcomes for The Leader’s Way?

• Discovery of practical skills and insights into how to navigate change to create more vibrant Christian community through case study and an adaptive leadership framework
• Knowledge of recent theological scholarship that particularly resonates with needs of contemporary parishes and communities through conversations with leading theologians at Yale and elsewhere.
• The development of an innovative ministry project to meet an adaptive challenge in your community
• Critical understanding of our contemporary cultural context and an acknowledgement of the opportunities for the Gospel to engage with and transform today’s world  
• Rediscovery and renewal of one’s calling for ministry
• Revitalized commitment to prayer and a fresh understanding of what creates wellness and a sustainable a life of ministry
• Deepened community of friendship and professional support

Can Lutheran clergy and or ordained and ministers of any denomination participate?

In our inaugural year, we will prioritize Episcopal clergy, though a small number of spots will be open for clergy of other denominations.

Can I participate in the initial residential program without participating in the six-month online portion of the program that follows?
No. The residential program and the online program are both integral to the successful completion of the program.

Who will be teaching the program and mentoring us?
The Leader’s Way will be led by distinguished Yale faculty and senior figures in the Church and from the non-profit, business, and public policy worlds. All faculty are chosen for their experience as leaders, their commitment to leading from faith and values, and the wisdom they can offer emerging new leaders.

How full is the schedule?
We believe that rest is a radical act of restoration to reconnect with yourself, God, and others.

What is the tuition and what’s included?
2023 tuition is $3500 and includes all components of the entire program. Tuition includes: books, materials, post-residential online learning, all accommodations, meals, and tours during the residential stay at Yale (one evening will be free for you to cover your own dinner expense), 

Is financial assistance available?
Berkeley Divinity School does not want the $3500 cost of the program to be a disincentive to any Episcopal clergy in attending. We have financial aid available in the form of 8 full scholarships, several partial scholarships, and limited need-based travel reimbursements. Funding is limited and awarded on a rolling need basis, so we warmly encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Is there an application fee? 
There is no application fee to apply.

Does the program extend accommodations to applicants with disabilities?
Yes. It’s important to Berkeley that applicants with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in The Leader’s Way, and that participants with disabilities fully participate in our process and our program. Berkeley will extend reasonable accommodations so that qualified applicants and Fellows can participate in the selection process and the Fellowship unless doing so would impose an undue burden on the Fellowship. Applicants with disabilities who require assistance in completing the application should contact our team at brandon.nappi@yale.edu to discuss the accommodation process.

What documentation must I provide?  
After completing the brief online application and including the name of a reference, you will also need to submit a resume or CV.

When will I be notified of the results of my application?  
You will be notified within one month of submitting your application.

How is my application reviewed?  
Your application will be reviewed by the Executive Director of Leadership Programs and the Berkeley’s Leadership committee.

Whom does it impact?
We believe that the Leader’s Way has a deep impact throughout the Church. Not only will the program impact the individuals in attendance, but the Leader’s Way will have a transformative impact on parishes. Vibrant parishes then become leaven for entire diocese as we seek to build a critical mass of thriving parish communities.

What is the time commitment?
The Leader’s Way requires 6 days in residence at Yale and 3 hours per month July-February (skipping August). Significant time each month will also be devoted developing and implementing your innovative ministry project at your parish. The monthly 3-hour sessions will be held on July 25, September 12, October 10, November 14, December 12, January 9, February 13 from 9 am- Noon EST by Zoom.

What’s the schedule like?
During the residential experience at Yale, days are a lively mix of prayer, active learning, tours, site seeing, small group dialogue, rest, and free time. Evening activities are optional. A complete schedule will be posted by March 1.

Where would I stay while at Yale?
Housing and meals are provided in the heart of Yale at the university’s newest residential colleges. Participants stay in single, air-conditioned rooms. Participants and staff will be supplied with access cards and bedroom keys. Access cards allow entry to designated gates and group areas including the assigned residential college dining halls and classrooms.

Where are meals?
Yale Conferences & Events and Yale Hospitality are proud to offer outstanding meals in our iconic dining halls each day, making sure your students are well prepared for class each day. The staff in each hall are prepared to make sure that each participant walks out of their meal feeling recharged and ready for the rest of their day. During one evening, participants will be free to dine in any one of New Haven’s amazing restaurants at their own expense. On the last evening, a special banquet will be held in one of our favorite New Haven eateries.

Is internet available?
Free wireless internet access for visitors (SSID “Yale Guest”) is available in all academic and residential buildings on campus, as well as in certain public outdoor spaces.

Are laundry facilities available?
Laundry facilities are located in the basement of each residential location, with washers and dryers for your use. Washers and dryers can be operated using coins or a credit card and are activated by the payment machine in the laundry room. The cost per cycle is $1.25 and does not include detergent, which can be purchased at the Yale Bookstore.

Do I need to pack linens and towels?
The linen packs include one twin XL fitted sheet, one flat sheet, one pillowcase, three towels, and a blanket. All bedrooms in all residential colleges will contain a pillow regardless of whether or not you purchase linens. If purchased, linen packs will be handed out at your check-in.

Is there parking and do I need a car?
A car is not needed to fully enjoy Yale and New Haven. If you are arriving on campus with a car, parking will be provided at no extra charge. The location of the lot will be provided in your welcome email that you’ll receive in the days before the program.

How do I get around New Haven?
Yale provides free shuttle service around campus, including to and from the Pierson-Sage Garage. Shuttle schedules and routes are available on the Yale Parking and Transportation Options page or via the TransLoc Mobile app for Android and iOS. A private shuttle will bring program participants from the residential college to Yale Divinity School where all the sessions will be held.

Do you offer a certificate of completion?
Yes, a certificate of completion will be offered at the end of the program. 

What is your refund policy?
Cancellations before May 1, 2023 receive a full refund, less a $50 cancellation fee. 
Cancellations between May 1-May 31 receive a 50% refund, less a $50 cancellation fee.
No refunds are offered after June 1, 2023 except in cases of emergency and illness.

Is the program open to non-U.S. Citizens or residents?
Yes. While we will prioritize U.S. citizen clergy from the Episcopal Church, we warmly welcome our friends from around the Anglican communion to apply.

When is the deadline for the application?
We have a rolling admissions process. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. We will reply to your application within two weeks of submission. The final application deadline is June 1.

Is English proficiency required?  
English proficiency is required.

Do I need to be up to date on my vaccinations and what is Yale’s COVID policy?
Yes. To protect the health and safety of faculty, staff, and students, the university has established this policy for visitors to the Yale campus including participants in the Leader’s Way. Learn more about Yale’s COVID policy.

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