Freedom Life Church, 789 Gap Newport Pike, Atglen, has announced open enrollment for the Freedom Life Ministry School, a leadership training program designed for young men and women who are considering a career in the church.

Open to individuals ages 17 to 24, the part-time program will be offered over the course of nine months, beginning on Tuesday, Sept. 2. Classes will take place on Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; on Wednesdays from noon to 8 p.m.; and on Sundays from 7 a.m. to noon.

"Everyone who is involved will help to serve during youth group, which is on Wednesday nights," explained pastor Ezra Buckwalter. "On Sundays, they will be at the church to serve from 7 a.m. to noon for both services."

There will be a tuition to take part in the program, which goes to accredited Bible courses being offered through Destiny Leadership Institute. Courses will include Old and New Testament Survey, Servant Leadership and Christian Foundations. "These are credited Bible courses that can be transferred to most universities to continue education toward a degree in Bible education, biblical studies, theology or pastoral (studies)," noted Buckwalter.

Through the course of the program, students will also take part in a retreat, a visit to the Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C., a conference at Wave Church in Virginia Beach and a service trip to the Philadelphia Dream Center.

While at Freedom Life, attendees will learn about all aspects of church life, including worship, media, children's ministry, pastoral leadership and creative arts. "Everybody from our pastoral team, creative team and worship team will meet with the students," Buckwalter said. "You get a hands-on church experience and some behind of scenes of what (the operation of a church) looks like."

Buckwalter said the program is designed for people who want to make sure that a career path in ministry is right for them. Because it is part time, they can continue to work a regular job while exploring options at Freedom Life. "Maybe (someone) just graduated and they are not sure what they want to do," he said. "They can still work, grow in this area and get close to the church."

For more information or to apply for the Freedom Life Ministry School, visit http://www.freedom.life/ministry-school. Those with quetions may contact Buckwalter at 610-593-5959 or ezra.buckwalter@freedom.life.