We’re excited to introduce the 2026 Certificate of Biblical Discipleship and Ministry Programme. This is a 15-week DTS style training programme designed to grow your faith, strengthen your understanding of God’s Word, and prepare you for a life of leadership and service. Based at our beautiful Orama campus on Great Barrier Island, this is more than a course, it’s a chance to step away from distractions and focus fully on your walk with Jesus. Applications are now open for the next intake that begins on Monday, 16 February 2026.
About the Certificate of Biblical Discipleship and Ministry programme
This programme is for anyone aged 18 or over who wants to build a strong faith, deepen their knowledge of the Bible, and explore their calling. Whether you’re preparing for ministry, thinking about missions, or looking for clarity in your next steps, the programme offers time and space to seek God, grow in truth, and learn how to live out your faith in the real world.
Each week focuses on a core theme, building both your knowledge and your spiritual life in a practical way. Learning happens through teaching, group work, prayer, worship, and personal time with God. You’ll also take part in hands-on ministry through placements across New Zealand.
What you’ll cover
Here’s a breakdown of what the 15-week journey looks like:
Weeks 1–2
Prayer and Devotional Life
Learn how to build regular rhythms of prayer, silence, and rest. Discover how to stay grounded in your faith and set up a life pattern that keeps you connected to Jesus.
Weeks 3–4
Identity in Christ
Understand what it means to be ‘in Christ’. Explore how your identity shapes how you see yourself and the world, and what it means to live from a place of truth.
Week 5
Christian Living
Focus on what it looks like to live out your faith daily. This week brings it all into the present, how to follow Jesus in today’s world.
Week 6
Break Week
Halfway through the term, students take a short break. There are still light study requirements, but the week is also for rest, reflection, and time to enjoy the beauty of New Zealand.
Week 7
Apologetics
In a world with many ideas and opinions, learn how to stand firm in your faith and speak clearly about what you believe and why it matters.
Week 8
Understanding Biblical Prophecy
Explore God’s plan through the story of Israel and learn how to read and understand biblical prophecy with care and context.
Week 9
Miracles and Healing
Is the miraculous still possible today? Learn how the power of God works in healing and explore what Scripture says about miracles.
Week 10
Spiritual Gifts and Spiritual Battle
The Bible teaches that we’re in a spiritual fight. This week helps you understand the gifts God gives and how to use them as part of that battle.
Week 11
The Prophetic
God speaks, and He wants His people to listen. Learn how to hear God’s voice and grow in confidence as you step into the prophetic.
Weeks 12–13
Ministry Placements
For three weeks, students serve in real ministry settings around New Zealand. These placements are matched to your interests and can include work in churches, youth groups, community outreach, and more. It’s a chance to practise what you’ve learned and see God work through you.
Week 14
Building Spiritual Resilience
Life comes with challenges. This week focuses on how to keep faith strong when things get tough. Learn how to walk through doubt, face difficulty, and stay steady in a changing world.
Week 15
Commissioning and Release
The final week brings the group back together for reflection, worship, and celebration. It’s a time to share stories, give thanks, and be commissioned for what comes next.
What you’ll take with you
By the end of the programme, students will:
- Understand who they are in Christ
- Be equipped to face challenges with strong spiritual tools
- Grow in confidence to use spiritual gifts
- Gain a better grasp of theology and the Bible
- Complete hands-on ministry work
- Be ready to take their next step in faith, service, or leadership
The Certificate in Biblical Discipleship & Ministry serves as a launchpad into various expressions of Christian service. While not an accredited academic qualification, it offers preparation for roles in ministry and church leadership, while providing a solid foundation for future theological study. Graduates will receive a certificate of completion.
Our Values
Orama Academy exists to help people know God more deeply and live out their faith with purpose. Our campus on Great Barrier Island offers a peaceful space to learn, grow, and be part of a caring Christian community. We believe truth should be taught with love, grace, and respect, and we ask every student to carry those values throughout their time with us.
Applications Are Now Open
Join us in 2026
The Certificate of Biblical Discipleship and Ministry programme is a life-changing opportunity to draw closer to God and grow in your calling. If you feel this could be your next step, we invite you to apply today. Spaces are limited. Learn more about the 3 month discipleship training programme or start your enrollment application today.
