What is Disciples Institute?
Executive Director
Disciples Institute Executive Director, Deitra Blackwell, has a Bachelor’s Degree in Education with a major in music from Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, and a Master’s Degree in Music from the New England Conservatory, Boston, MA. A fifth generation Disciple, Deitra has been active in Disciple churches and the former Arkansas Region since 1961, is currently Minister of Music at First Christian Church, Maumelle, AR, and in 2005 completed a term on the National Planning Council for the Association of Disciple Musicians (ADM). She also tutors children with learning disabilities through LearningRX. She has extensive experience in event planning and developing workshops and seminars for non-profit organizations.
Disciples Institute is a non-profit, educational organization founded in 2004 to help church leaders meet the complex challenges faced by 21st century Christianity in an increasing secular society. Assisted by the Great River Region of the Christian Church (DOC) and outstanding congregational pastors, DI provides educational events for ministers, musicians, artists, dramatists, and congregational leaders. Most classes and workshops are held at churches, with increasing use of technology to reach more students.
Jesus said,
"Do you love me?... Feed my sheep."
John 21:17
Dual Focus
To bring continuing education to ministers, musicians, artists, dra-matists, and congregational lead-ers, especially those who serve churches in a professional, bi-vocational capacity.
To encourage partnerships among clergy and the creative people in their congregations.