Some of the students from the Mankato Believers School of Ministry.

The Mankato Believers School of Ministry, which was held January 11-Marcy 29, lit Gospel fires in the hearts of the students from age 11 to 81 who participated. We had up to 29 in attendance from churches in Mankato and the surrounding area, including students from St. Peter, New Ulm, Arlington, and Glencoe.

The Believers School of Ministry equips Christians to share their faith and to use the gifts that God has given them to help others. We teach foundational Bible principles and train believers to do the works of Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit. Each class includes practical hands-on training in ministry skills—such as witnessing, praying for the needs of others, and moving in the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The school was sponsored by Tom Shanklin Ministries in cooperation with Two Rivers Vineyard Church, and held at the Madison East Mall in Mankato.

Even though most of our ministry is recent years has been in others places in the United States and overseas, it was a great blessing for Susan and me to be able to connect with believers and to have a part in the work of God in our hometown and surrounding area.

During the class, there were regular testimonies from students who had shared their faith outside of the classes and ministered in other ways. After the “Healing the Sick” lesson, a number of the students stood and shared why they believed that miracles are for today. Each of the speakers then prayed for others in the class who had needs. It was exciting to see God’s people come alive with their divine purpose in life—loving God and loving people.

Comments from the Mankato Believers School of Ministry

Here’s a comment from Pastor David Welker of Two Rivers Vineyard Church:

“Thanks to Tom Shanklin Ministries for The Believer’s School of Ministry!  It really helped lay a Biblical foundation for our faith and equipped the students to share the message of the Gospel.  I have no doubt our church and community will see plenty of fruit from this 12-week course for the months and years to come.  It was especially inspiring to hear Tom’s personal stories of sharing his faith and to break up into groups to practice what was learned.  Jesus modeled a ‘tell and show’ method when teaching about His Kingdom, this class values and models that as well.  If you’re considering hosting this class, I wouldn’t hesitate.  A worthy investment with eternal dividends.” (David Welker, Pastor, Two Rivers Vineyard Church, Mankato, Minnesota)

Here are some of the students’ comments from the class evaluation:

This class mean has meant everything to me. It has given me confidence for my purpose in life!!!!!! (12-year-old student)

It really helped me to become a better believer to minister to people like my friends and strangers. It also put a better perspective on some topics in my life. Thanks sooo much for coming and teaching us a lot. (teenager)

It has played a powerful role in my relationship with God. It has helped me to nourish seeds that are becoming a garden and taught me how to nurture that garden. I’ll miss Thursdays with everyone.

This school has been amazing. It has helped me to overcome my block with speaking in tongues. It has encouraged me to study, study, and study some more. It has given me faith to heal, and to speak out in the name of Jesus. I cannot thank you and Susan for everything.

I really learned a lot in this class. I liked the exercises. I would take this class again if I could, because I think I could learn more.

This class gives me strength and a better understanding of my place in the Body, the strength and authority that I have as I walk with and listen to the Holy Spirit. Now it’s a matter of walking it out and getting this more from my head into my heart.

I’m going to miss Thursday nights! It was a good start to reconnecting with my faith and the Lord Jesus. Thank you!

Check out the Online Believers School of Ministry.

Learn about have the Believers School of Ministry in your church.