Cultural Values

Event Details

Developed in partnership with the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship and the Calvin University School of Graduate and Continuing Studies, this online course equips worship planners and leaders of all types of ministries with practical tools for relating well to people from a variety of cultures. Understanding and respecting cultural differences is key to a healthy ministry. 

What You'll Learn

Participants will generate self-awareness, humility, curiosity, and “other orientation” through the understanding of cultural values.

With wisdom shared from scholars such as Pennylyn Dykstra-Pruim, David I. Smith, and John D. Witvliet, among others, the course, created by Kai Ton Chau, is online and asynchronous but includes interaction between participants and guided discussion by the faculty facilitator.

Those who complete the course will earn a digital badge, Cultural Values in Ministry, to validate their learning.

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

  • Name and recognize the differences of five cultural values.

  • Analyze how these cultural values influence individuals' behaviors, perspectives, expectations, and choices, particularly related to church ministries.

  • Explain interpersonal techniques to communicate and collaborate well with people from varying cultural orientations.

Register Now 

Also see this related video conversation with Kai Ton Chau and Satrina Reid on cultural intelligence and loving our neighbor.

 

Join a cohort of learners from around the globe taking this course together in June 2025!

  • Registration costs $100 per individual.
    • Register 3 or more people from your team to receive a 50% off rate (coupon code: GROUP50).
    • 50% off rate for those who are actively planning worship services for their community/congregation (coupon code: GROUP50)
    • 50% off rate for Calvin faculty and staff (coupon code: GROUP50)
  • Registration is open now through May 30 at 5:00PM (EDT)
  • Takes approximately 10-12 hours over two weeks to complete.
  • Contact continuingstudies@calvin.edu for more information.