Start a Class

Why?

Perspectives has been used over and over by God to teach his people about His eternal, global purpose. Students who have walked through the Biblical, historical, cultural, and strategic aspects of the course gain an understanding that brings passion and excitement for their own calling to serve in something bigger than themselves, no matter where they live, and regardless of what they do.

Where is Perspectives offered?

Perspectives is offered in around 200 locations (at churches, universities, and other venues) every year. Check out the Find a Class feature to see where classes are offered now or being planned for next semester.

Who is it for?

• Churches - To increase and define global vision
• Universities - Perspectives is a credit-level study program & is offered for credit or accepted as transfer credit at Christian and secular universities, as well as seminaries. 
• Students - It is especially dynamic in the lives of late- high school and college students who are just charting the course for their life
• Lay People - Everybody desires a life of purpose. Perspectives guides people in that direction, no matter their age or station in life 
• Pastors & Church Leaders - Many pastors have been astounded at what they have learned in this class and how it has affected their leadership.
• Missionaries - Future and veteran missionaries gain a solid foundation for their life's work in this class
• Every Believer - No matter their age or position, this course will speak to every believer who wants a closer walk with the Lord and who is serious about gaining a deeper understanding of His ultimate purpose in the world.

How can I start a class?

We are asking God to raise up key people to begin and supervise Perspectives classes in cities and areas where it is not offered. Here are some steps you can take to start a class in your community:

• Talk to your Regional Director about the possibility. Your Regional Director can put you in touch with other alumni in your area, answer your questions and help you think through your options, and will be the person who you will work if you do start one.
• Identify a possible coordinator for your class. Learn how to find or become a coordinator. 
• Look at the list of upcoming Perspectives Coordinator Workshops (PCWs), and try to send not only your coordinator but also key coordinating team members to it.  Find out where PCWs are being offered.
• Know the Timeline: Perspectives classes are 15 weeks long, one class a week, and are usually hosted in conjunction with the university semester - in the spring or fall. However, planning often begins up to six months before class starts.
• Start Networking. The strongest classes involve multiple churches in the community and campus ministries. Start building support and getting people excited, even before you have a coordinator.
• Recruit a Coordinating Team. This is the core team of 5-10 people who will help you run the class. Even before you attend a PCW, you can look for influencers with differing networks and giftings! Learn about coordinating team roles. 
• Start Praying. Perspectives is a spiritual exercise, where we ask students to change their way of thinking, the direction of their lives, and to engage in new battles. You can never begin pleading soon enough for God's grace, power, and protection for this spiritual endeavor. Recruit a team to join you!