Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to take the entire 12 week course at one time?

It is possible to take the course in two 6 week sections.  There is a natural dividing point in course content.  The first 6 weeks focus on direct children’s ministry and the second 6 weeks on recruiting and training others, and principles of leadership.It is not possible to break the training down into smaller modules of 3-4 weeks.

What if I want to take the entire course but cannot be freed from other commitments to be able to start the first week?

It is possible but not recommended to arrive up to one week late.  You will be expected to listen to the class hours you missed (up to 30 class hours) and successfully complete the assignments and tests while keeping up with the ongoing classes and assignments. 

I am able to stay for most of the course but what if I need to leave early? Can I still get a diploma?

It is possible to leave the course one week early though you will definitely be missing out on an exciting part of the Institute training finishing together with new found friends.  The last week and graduation can bring needed closure to this intense training. To receive a diploma for the 12 week course, you will need to listen to all the classes missed (a CD will be sent to you) and successfully complete the class assignments.

Is there any age requirement to be able to take this training course?

Yes. You should be at least 18 years old.  This is a leadership training institute and it is best suited for those who have had some ministry experience and would be able to use what they have learned here to train others.

If you are approaching 60 years of age and feel able to participate in a strenuous training schedule your case will receive special consideration by the National Director of your country in consultation with the Education Department.

Are similar courses available in other parts of the world?

A5 Yes! Contact www.cefcmi.comNormally, students would attend the Leadership Institute nearest to them.

What is included in the price? Do you have special deals for families?

The course fee will cover your tuition and full board as well as books and class notes. See list of prices for family deals. 

Speaking of families, do you provide child care if both parents want to take the course.?

We do provide child care during the class hours. This also includes occasional afternoon seminars. There might be a case when a family would prefer to bring their own child minder. We’re flexible in working out details with you.

May I pay the fees in several installments?

Yes, it is possible though it is necessary that all your fees be paid up before the end of Institute, if you wish to take your diploma home with you.

Is it possible to pay in foreign currency?

Yes, we will accept cheques and cash in any of the major currencies.

Is it possible to pay by credit card?

Yes, this will be in place by summer 2007. There will be a charge of up to 2.5%

What other expenses might I incur during the 3-month training?

You will want to bring pocket money for class outings, personal items, laundry, using the photocopier etc.

Note: Each student and child is required to have health insurance.  The cost is 370SF per person for the three months. We strongly recommend that you look into a travel insurance that will cover your three month stay in Switzerland. It will probably be cheaper.

What happens at the weekend?

The commitment on Fridays continues through until suppertime (18.00). A student committee will organize activities for those who wish to participate; Saturday outings to discover Switzerland, fun evenings to get to know each other better and to get a taste of the cultures represented, Sunday worship.

Can I go away on the weekends?

There is the possibility of two free weekends.  One is scheduled for all the students, the second can be arranged for in consultation with the Institute Supervisor. A free weekend begins Friday after the last class (13.10) until Sunday evening.

Is it possible to live outside of Kilchzimmer?

This is a residential course.  You will discover that an important part of your Kilchzimmer experience will be the broadening of your horizons and your understanding of others through your exposure to the different cultures.

Can I at least go home at the weekends?

Yes after the Friday student prayer time (18.00) and making sure your assignments are completed, you may leave the Centre until Sunday morning before the 10.15 Service. Exceptional needs may be presented to the Institute Supervisor.

But what if I want to go to my own church on Sunday morning?

The worship services here are an important part of growing together as a community. We believe that God has a purpose in bringing you to this training and that he wants to both use you and minister to you in the context of these times of worship. Why not invite your friends from home to join us some Sunday?

What is the nearest town?

Kilchzimmer lies 3.5km outside of Langenbruck.

Into which airport should I plan to fly?

Basel or Zurich airports would be the best choice.

How many students are living in one room?

Usually 2 students are assigned to one room, some of the larger rooms will have 3 or 4. For exceptional cases, a few single rooms would be available.

Do I need to bring my own sheets and towels?

The house provides all bedding and sheets.  You will need to bring your own towels.

What laundry facilities are there?

We have a laundry available for student use at designated times (1.5SF per load – washing powder included).

Can I bring my car?

Yes, since we are located in a rural area, you will appreciate having greater mobility. Be sure to bring an international drivers license.

Attention Autumn students: it is wise to come with snow tyres already mounted. We have had snow as early as September.

Can I purchase personal items at the centre?

We have a tuck shop for snacks and sweets and a bookstore with some paper items available. You will probably want to shop for some items in nearby towns.

Do I need winter clothes for the Autumn Institute?

Definitely, though it can be warm the beginning of Autumn, it will get cold later.

Are there any other guidelines about clothes?

All students should dress modestly. Women need to have a skirt or dress to wear during Sunday services.

Would it be worthwhile bringing my own laptop?

Yes. There are 6/7 computers with broadband internet access available for student use in the library  You would also be able to access the internet over the wireless connections in the house. In either case, you will be able to access your own internet e-mail account.

Do I need a visa?

This depends on which passport you have. Some do need a tourist visa (check the Swiss embassy website in your country for details).

Note: If you are from a country that requires a tourist visa, your Institute fees must be paid in full two months before the start of the training. It is only after the fees come in that the Swiss authorities allow us to help you get a tourist visa.