David Weidner gives us something to think about and perhaps comment on, namely, “Challenges Facing DCE Ministry,” in the Fall 2009 Issues in Christian Education:
1. The matter of educating the congregations about the vital role of DCEs. What is a DCE and what can he or she do for the congregation? DCE training programs at the six Concordia Universities that offer the program have done a great deal to advance the ministry.
2. Discussion of the long-term viability of the profession. Can an individual continue to be effective as a parish DCE as she or he ages?
3. Another phenomenon impacting the question of longevity is the movement of individuals out of congregationally-based DCE ministry. Of the 1700 plus individuals certified as DCEs, only 630 remain serving as DCEs in a congregation.
4. In this current economic downturn a major challenge facing numerous DCEs is job security.
5. At the level of actual practice there are practical challenges: impact of technology on families and teens, new congregational governance structures, team ministry and its tapestry of unique gifts and talents.
“The future is bright for DCEs,” David concludes. Give the article a read!