The president of International Institute of Church Growth, Dr. Bola Akin-John has stated the need for adequate training for all categories of pastors, to enable them perform effectively in the ministry.

He stated this in Lagos during an interview session with journalists in his Lagos office. According to him, ‘the peculiar nature of the job of pastors makes it necessary for pastors to take time off to be refilled regularly, so as not to get burn­out. Such trainings, he said, could be at conferences, seminars etc, In that way, they would remain spiritually, psychologically, mentally and physically healthy'.

Dr. Akin-John, who has trained well over 4,000 pastors through his training institute, disclosed lack of proper training in ministry is the reason for constant breakaways in churches today.

"Research confirms that a minister can only be healthy and sound when he or she attends a five-day conference twice a year. Ministers give so much ­sermons every week, counsel, pray, minister to people every time, and a lot is going out of them. So you need to go to a place where you can be refilled. "

He advised that for a minister to thrive in the ministry, he needs to be well equipped, and there are essentially three basic trainings he needs. These are formal training, non-formal training and informal training respectively.

Asked to explain these, the highly sought after and respected teacher said that a formal training involves going to a Bible school to help you understand the background of the Scriptures. It also helps you in Bible interpretation, and this serves as a good foundation.

He cautioned, however, that while it is a good place to start, it is dangerous to stop there. Therefore, a well-equipped minister should proceed to the non formal training stage. This place, he said, is where you undertake to choose a personal mentor who could be pastor, leader or an experienced person in the ministry, who could serve as your adviser and put you through the practical.

The informal training needed to be a well-equipped minister, Dr. Akin-John explained includes leadership courses, communication courses, Church growth courses, seminars and conferences etc. These should be ongoing trainings in a minister's life.

The International Institute of communication courses, church growth courses, seminars and conferences etc. These should be ongoing trainings in a minister's life.

The International Institute of Church Growth holds regular seminars, conferences, and other leadership trainings for pastors, church workers and others, throughout the year, in Nigeria and abroad.