A 12-week intensive program that equips Christians with the theological knowledge and practical skills to be effective advocates for the full inclusion of gay, bisexual, and transgender people in the church.
The Leadership Development Cohort equips Christians who love God, love the Bible, and love the church with the theological knowledge and practical tools they need to be effective advocates for LGBTQ inclusion in the non-affirming church.
As a Bible-based, Christian organization, we are committed to LGBTQ inclusion in the church because, first and foremost, we are committed to the church. That's why we look for applicants who are passionately aligned with our Statement of Faith — Christians whose faith is the driving force in their lives.
We particularly encourage straight Christians to apply, as they are often uniquely positioned to reach non-affirming believers.
"It's not about winning arguments; it's about building bridges and fostering understanding."
12
Weeks of in-depth online study about the Bible and LGBTQ inclusion
4
Daylong virtual gatherings to reinforce learning and build community
100%
Virtual — open to participants anywhere in the world
$200
One-time program fee, including access to both video curriculum courses
Program Structure
Rigorous. Theological. Practical.
The cohort is designed similarly to a college course — but with a community of fellow advocates alongside you the entire way.
01
Deep Theological Study
Read and respond to both affirming and non-affirming writings — developing a well-rounded understanding of the theological debate about the Bible and LGBTQ inclusion.
02
Daylong Gatherings
Four daylong virtual gatherings (10am–5pm Central) bring the cohort together to reinforce learning, build relationships, and practice difficult conversations.
03
Video Curriculum Access
Each participant receives full access to both of our video curriculum courses — The Biblical Case for LGBTQ Inclusion and Scripture and Sexual Ethics.
04
Weekly Reading & Response
On average, participants should expect to spend 12–15 hours each week engaging with course materials and participating in online discussions with cohort members.
05
Cohort Community
You'll go through this alongside a cohort of fellow participants — Christians who share your convictions and your calling, from across the country and the world.
06
Ambassador Certification
Graduates are eligible to serve as local ambassadors of The Reformation Project — trained advocates ready to walk alongside Christians working through these questions.
"I was seeking God's heart — and the Cohort gave me the tools to help others do the same."
Who Should Apply
For Christians who feel called to this work.
The cohort is not for everyone — and that's intentional. We select participants who are personally committed to working toward greater LGBTQ inclusion in the non-affirming church. Auditing is not permitted.
You are committed to orthodox Christian faith and aligned with our Statement of Faith
Your Christian faith is the driving force in your life — not just a background value
You are personally committed to serving as an advocate in your community after completing the program
You can commit 12–15 hours per week for 12 weeks, plus attend at least three of four daylong Saturday gatherings
You are open to engaging seriously with both affirming and non-affirming theological perspectives
You can participate regardless of where you live — the cohort is fully virtual and open internationally
Common Questions
Everything you need to know.
Have a question not answered here? Email us and we'll get back to you.
There is a one-time, non-refundable fee of $200 for participants. This covers the cost of participation as well as one license for each of our two video curriculum courses — The Biblical Case for LGBTQ Inclusion and Scripture and Sexual Ethics. Additionally, participants will be expected to purchase four books, which range from approximately $45 (e-book) to $65 (paperback).
The 12-week study program focuses on the theological debate about the Bible and LGBTQ inclusion. Participants read and respond to both affirming and non-affirming writings, developing a well-rounded understanding of this theological conversation. Beyond theological knowledge, participants also grow in their understanding of the concerns and convictions of non-affirming Christians — making them more effective and empathetic communicators.
On average, participants should expect to spend 12–15 hours each week reading course materials, writing responses, and engaging in online discussions. Weeks start on Wednesdays, with responses due on Tuesdays. Participants must also be available for at least three of four daylong virtual gatherings on Saturdays (10am–5pm Central).
After completing the cohort, graduates are eligible to serve as local ambassadors of The Reformation Project. Ambassadors serve as a resource and guide for Christians who are working through their beliefs about LGBTQ inclusion — offering one-on-one conversations, pastoral support, and a knowledgeable presence in their community. There is no set time commitment; the investment varies based on your capacity and how many people reach out.
Yes — the cohort is fully virtual and open to participants anywhere in the world. That said, it's worth considering time zone differences for the four daylong gatherings, which take place from 10am–5pm Central (U.S.) time. We can make accommodations for participants in significantly different time zones, such as providing recordings of portions of gatherings.
No. Given limited resources, we select only those who are personally committed to working toward greater LGBTQ inclusion in the non-affirming church by serving as a local ambassador of The Reformation Project after completing the program.
From Past Cohort Members
The impact of the program.
Hear from Christians whose advocacy — and faith — were shaped by the cohort.
"I was seeking God's heart — diligently searching for biblical answers — when I found The Reformation Project. The cohort gave me the theological grounding I needed to actually help others."
Rebekah
Ambassador in Utah
"Through the Leadership Development Cohort, I've learned how to engage with others in a way that reflects Christ's love. It's not about winning arguments; it's about building bridges and fostering understanding."
Placeholder Name
Cohort Graduate · [City, State]
"I came in nervous about engaging non-affirming Christians in my church. I left equipped — with the theology, the patience, and the community to actually do this work well."
Placeholder Name
Cohort Graduate · [City, State]
2027 Cohort
Be the first to know when applications open.
The 2026 cohort is currently underway. We'll announce the 2027 cohort application window later this year. Leave your name and email and we'll notify you as soon as applications open — and send you everything you need to prepare a strong application.
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While You Wait
Connect with an Ambassador
Already want a conversation? Our current ambassadors are available for one-on-one discussions about Scripture and LGBTQ inclusion — wherever you are in your journey.
