From June 24 to 27, 2025, the Pastoral Leadership Institute International (PLII) courses were held at the Theological Institute. 

The PLII courses focus on developing leadership qualities in ministers, organizing congregation work, and strengthening relationships among parishioners, a pastor and his family. The instructors were bishop Ivan Laptev and pastor Artis Eglitis (Latvia). Additionally, pastor Valery Antipov and his wife Natalya Antipova led separate sessions on family relationships. 

The session began with a worship service with a sermon on the ministry of Moses, where the participants reflected on the challenges and blessings he faced as a servant of God. The lectures were conducted in an interactive dialogue format with the audience, and during coffee breaks, participants have the opportunity to discuss what they’ve heard with one another. 

• The first year lessons aim to help participants understand themselves, recognize the talents the Lord has given each of them, and explore how they can use their gifts in ministry – as well as what might help or hinder them. 
• The second year lessons focus on identifying and implementing necessary changes in congregation ministry. 
• The third course lessons discuss how to unite parishioners and encourage them to work alongside their pastor in building up their church. 

In addition to the main program, participants had the opportunity to visit the biblical exhibition Acts of Women (by Annenkirche, St. Petersburg). Married couples also enjoyed organized «romantic dates». 

We give thanks to God, seminar participants, and the institute staff for making this meeting possible.