What do you do?
Welcome to TIRoutreach.org! I'm Rev. Dr. Melvin Sensenig (MDiv, PhD), a theologian in residence, and I'm passionate about equipping pastors, especially those in underserved areas like Reading, PA, with the tools they need to thrive in their ministry. My ministry is dedicated to providing in-depth biblical and theological training for pastors who may not have had the opportunity to pursue formal graduate-level education.
My curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including Christ-centered preaching and the development of a strong theological foundation. I believe that well-equipped pastors are better positioned to serve their congregations effectively and make a lasting impact on their communities.
As an ordained evangelical Presbyterian and Protestant minister (eco-pres.org), my teaching is rooted in a commitment to the authority of Scripture and a love for the historic Christian faith. I am passionate about helping pastors grow in their knowledge and understanding of God's Word and in their ability to bring His Word to the people under their care.
By participating in this program, pastors can expect to gain valuable insights, practical skills, and a deeper theological understanding that will enhance their ministry. If you're interested in learning more or joining our training program, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'd love to hear from you and answer any more questions.
How often do you meet with your pastors?
At TIRoutreach.org, I prioritize flexibility to cater to the unique needs and schedules of the pastors we serve. As a theologian in residence to both the Black Pastors Association and the Hispanic Pastors Association, the frequency of meetings varies based on the specific needs and requests of these associations. Typically, my meeting schedule includes:
Weekly or Biweekly Sessions: Depending on the immediate needs and goals of the pastors, we may meet with them on a weekly or biweekly basis. These sessions provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions, mentoring, and addressing pressing theological or ministry-related issues. These also foster community and collaboration among pastors within each association. These meetings serve as a forum for sharing insights, learning from one another, and strengthening their bonds as a group.
Monthly Full Association Meetings: I consistently attend separate monthly meetings with both the Black Pastors Association and the Hispanic Pastors Association. These meetings allow me to connect with all members and provide broader theological insights and guidance.
There may also be times when they are less in need of in-person training. I use these times for fundraising, planning, and ministry development.
My commitment to adaptability ensures that pastors receive the support and resources they need when they need them. I understand that ministry can be dynamic, and my goal is to provide responsive and tailored assistance to pastors in Reading, PA, as they serve their congregations and communities.
How many pastors attend?
The number of pastors attending our meetings can vary, reflecting the dynamic nature of this ministry. Typically, 1 to 25 active pastors attend gatherings. Each of them is already actively engaged in serving their congregations in the city of Reading, PA. These pastors come from diverse backgrounds and represent a wide range of congregational sizes, spanning from 25 to over 200 members.
It's important to note that I exclusively work with pastors and leaders who are brought to me by these established, active congregations. This strategic approach enhances the ripple effect of this ministry. When I equip and empower even a small group of pastors on any given night, the impact multiplies exponentially as these teachings are carried back to their congregations.
My work is not just about transforming the knowledge and skills of individual pastors but catalyzing positive change within entire congregations. Through this multiplication effect, the theological and biblical training I provide has the potential to touch the lives of hundreds of parishioners, fostering spiritual growth, Christ-centered preaching, and a deeper theological understanding within these communities.
If you are interested in learning more about this ministry's impact or would like to become a part of this transformative process, please don't hesitate to reach out. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of pastors and the congregations they serve.
What does your weekly schedule look like?
My weekly schedule is a carefully orchestrated blend of chaplaincy, teaching, ministry preparation, and administrative tasks. This multifaceted schedule allows me to effectively support the pastors I work with while staying connected with the academic and religious studies community at Albright College. Here's a breakdown of my typical week:
Mondays: Mondays are devoted to catching up on correspondence from the weekend. Once a month, in the evening, I meet with the Hispanic Pastors Association (Asociacion de Pastores de Reading) to discuss their needs and provide guidance.
Tuesdays: I spend Tuesdays on the Albright College campus, where I teach and serve as a chaplain. This connection with the academic community and religious studies department helps me apply academic insights in a way that is accessible to the pastors I work with.
Wednesdays: Wednesdays are dedicated to preparation. I ensure that all teaching materials are ready for upcoming events, including translations when necessary. This day is also when I allocate time for fundraising activities, as my ministry relies on the generous support of individuals, organizations, and churches.
Thursdays: Similar to Tuesdays, Thursdays are spent at Albright College for teaching and chaplain duties. If there's more intensive training planned with the pastors, this is typically the night when we meet for these sessions.
Fridays: Fridays are a combination of correspondence, individual meetings, and planning for the following week. It's a day to address specific needs and maintain efficiency.
Saturdays: On Saturdays, I have a monthly meeting with the Black Pastors Association (Reading and Vicinity Ministerial Association). These gatherings are essential for fostering community among pastors and discussing relevant topics.
This weekly schedule reflects my commitment to providing ongoing support and guidance to pastors while staying connected with the academic world to enhance the quality of my ministry. If you have any questions or would like to know more about my weekly activities, please feel free to reach out. Your support and engagement are greatly appreciated and essential to this mission's success.
And, of course, throughout each week, I make sure to take time for personal spiritual growth, hobbies, exercise, and, importantly, family time.
What is your annual budget?
My annual budget, which encompasses various components such as ministry expenses, administrative costs, salary, and housing allowance, is determined in collaboration with InFaith. For the current year, the total ministry goal stands at $100,000. It's important to note that this figure covers a range of expenses required to sustain and advance this ministry's mission. About 30% goes toward salary, about 40% toward minister housing expenses, 10% to taxes and the rest toward ministry expenses, benefits, and administrative expenses. Perhaps most importantly, I have never actually raised this much. For instance, last year my total raised was only $80,000, so the amounts for each category were reduced accordingly.
If you have any specific questions or would like more details about how our budget is allocated, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Your interest and support play a crucial role in enabling us to serve pastors and their communities effectively.
