Mission, Philosophy, and Purposes
The mission of The Institute of Church Ministry (ICM) is to share the expertise and resources of Andrews University and the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary with the Adventist church in North America, thus aiding denominational decision-makers and facilitating the larger church in the accomplishment of its goals. The work of ICM is based on the belief that the tools of social science can join with Biblical and theological insights in advancing the objectives of the church. The purpose of ICM is to provide resources for ministry in meeting the challenges of a variety of issues in the contemporary world. This mission and purpose are carried out through research, publications, development of materials, information processing, and consultation.
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History
The concept of the Institute of Church Ministry began in 1978 when the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists (NAD) asked Andrews University Seminary professor, Des Cummings, Jr., to direct a study of church growth within the Division. The need for empirical research in the field of church ministry became apparent, thus prompting the establishment of ICM at the November 1979 meeting of the Andrews University Board of Trustees. The Institute officially opened on January 1, 1980. Des Cummings, Jr. served as director until August 1984. Roger L. Dudley, emeritus professor of Christian Ministry at the Seminary, has served as director since then.
ICM is located on the lower floor of the Seminary building, room S136. It includes space for the director, administrative assistant, student assistants, important records, and research materials. In 1984, ICM entered into a sustaining relationship with the North American Division (NAD) which has continued to be its major client.