Discover JRMC
Elective Elements
JRMC’s elective approach allows students to specialize in a specific area of ministry related to their interest or calling. Like a college major, electives allow students to focus more intently on a specific area of ministry while serving the needs of others in a thriving local church. Students spend between ten and twenty hours weekly investing in their chosen elective. Below are descriptions of what prospective students can expect to experience in each elective.
Realife Student Ministries
directed by Scotty Gibbons
Students will develop their leadership by contributing to youth services, major youth outreaches, weekly small groups and many other events. They’ll also develop a number of skills useful in reaching teenagers. Regular interaction with an amazing youth staff brings a personal mentoring component to this youth ministry training experience.
Worship and Creative Arts
In the Worship elective, students are committed to the church choir and have opportunities for involvement on worship teams. Regular leadership training and weekly teaching on worship will thoroughly develop you in your passion for leading others to worship God. Students will also benefit from significant contributions to major musical productions, including Easter and Christmas concerts.
James River Kids
directed by Clent Wells and Tami Parsley
Students will experience a variety of opportunities, including children’s ministry curriculum design and development, implementation of ongoing programs, stage production, drama and worship teams. They’ll also be given practical training in the planning and implementation of all major events including James River Kids camps, special programs and outreaches.
Creative Services
directed by Ryan Wakefield
In the Creative Services elective, students will be involved in all areas of communication at JRA. They will learn skills and get hands on experience in videography, photography, graphic design, editing and banner printing. Regular interaction with professionals in the field of church media will provide an invaluable experience for students who choose this elective.
Live Production
directed by Nikole Maddox
Students will learn the behind-the-scenes technical support that is a part of every service at JRA. After learning the basics of audio, video, and lighting, students are given the opportunity to select one area of focus for more extensive training and opportunities. Their involvement will include event preparation and planning during the week plus special opportunities during major events and outreaches.
Information Technology
directed by Todd Nicholson
Students will be given opportunities to develop skills in hardware and software support and provide technical support to various ministries at JRA. Prospective students should have a wide range of technology backgrounds including experience in MS Office applications, PC/Mac hardware troubleshooting, networking, security, or even programming. Through the IT elective, students will get regular opportunities to develop their abilities while gaining invaluable experience at JRA.
James River Women
directed by Debbie Lindell
JRW exists to champion the value and potential of all women and empower them to make the world a better place. Through hands-on experience, JRW elective students will develop skills in event planning, product formation, outreach, and logistics. Students will contribute to women’s services, outreaches, and other special events, providing opportunities for them to develop in ministry. Relationships are built with the JRW leadership team, allowing for times of mentoring and fun!