πŸ“… The 2026 Conference is October 9–11 at St. Stephen Retreat Center Β· Register now β†’
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Leadership Education And Development

Christian leadership, taught with care and conviction.

A two-year program for adults age 20 and older, established by H.E. Metropolitan Youssef. Learn leadership principles rooted in Scripture and the example of Christ β€” and apply them at church, at home, and at work.

October 9–11, 2026 Titusville, Florida
LEAD students in a cohort session
β€œLet your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16
At a glance

The program in five numbers at a glance.

1
Annual conference
A required October weekend at the St. Stephen Christian Retreat Center.
2
Years in program
A focused, two-year sequence designed to fit alongside work and family life.
20+
Minimum age
Built for adults applying these skills in real workplace and ministry settings.
300+
Students
Alumni and current students who serve in their churches, homes, and workplaces.
2012
Founded
Established by H.E. Metropolitan Youssef of the Coptic Orthodox Metropolis of the Southern U.S.

Read the full story of the program β†’

Portrait of H.E. Metropolitan Youssef
H.E. Metropolitan Youssef
Coptic Orthodox Metropolis
of the Southern U.S.
A message from H.E. Metropolitan Youssef

Beloved brethren β€” peace be with you.

In today's society, the need for Christian leadership has become more important than ever. The complex world in which we live presents challenges in all areas of our lives. To meet these challenges, we must prepare ourselves and others using sound leadership principles based on the Biblical teachings of servant leadership as taught by our Lord Jesus Christ β€” β€œFor even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” (Mark 10:45)

At some point in our lifetime, we will all be faced with an opportunity to influence others β€” to lead. This may manifest itself in our role at church, in our home, or at work. By developing our understanding of solid Christian leadership principles, we will be better equipped to navigate as servants of our Lord and fulfill our calling as functioning members of the body of Christ.

My vision is that through this program, we can put these Biblical principles of leadership into action and light the way for a new generation of passionate Christian leaders.

β€” H.E. Metropolitan Youssef
The Curriculum

Two courses across two years.

Courses are offered in sequence and you may start your leadership journey in either the first or second year of the program. Course offerings alternate each year.

LEAD 501

Foundations Intensive

Foundations of leadership influence, levels of leadership, and advanced skills. Core texts: 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell and Next Generation Leader by Andy Stanley.

LEAD 502

Coaching Intensive

Self-awareness paired with the practical disciplines of growing leaders around you. Core text: Developing the Leaders Around You by John Maxwell.

Additional texts such as Visioneering by Andy Stanley are read throughout the program. View full course details β†’

Program Structure

What's required of students.

A clear, manageable rhythm across two years. Designed to fit alongside your work, family, and church life.

1

Age 20 or older

The program is built for adults applying these skills in real workplace and ministry settings.

2

Annual conference

Attend the October conference at St. Stephen Christian Retreat Center in Titusville, FL. Travel is self-arranged.

3

Monthly quizzes

Five short questions per month over the assigned reading. Light by design β€” a gentle accountability check.

4

Research assignment

One research assignment per year.

5

Score of 70 to pass

Each year requires a grade of 70 or higher to pass. Receive a certificate of completion upon successful performance in both program years.

6

Be present

In-person attendance at the annual conference is required for successful completion of the program. Remote attendance is not supported at this time.

Ready to begin?

Registration for the 2026 LEAD Program is open. Register today and secure your place at the October annual conference.

Register today