Beyond The River Academy BTRA is a group of Lutheran pastors who are filling a need by training men and women who have been identified by their congregations as being called to public ministry. The Academy offers an affordable course of six classes designed to provide a solid foundation in basic theological education for those who may already be serving congregations in a lay capacity. They can take these online classes while continuing their current job and maintaining their family lives. The Academy has been functioning successfully for two years and currently has 12 students enrolled. Three students have been called and ordained by congregations and are finishing their classes with BTRA while beginning their work in these congregations. It is hoped that small rural congregations who are having difficulty securing a pastor or paying a pastor will be able to identify and sponsor people from within who would like to serve in the ordained ministry. If you or someone you know is interested in finding out more about Beyond The River Academy, please visit the website and contact one of the pastors for more information.