English is the language most in demand across the planet. Therefore the teaching of English is desired in many places including in the United States. For many years, churches focused on teaching English as a second language (ESL or ESOL) to internationals, refugees, and immigrants in the U.S. Now, perhaps as many churches and individuals are teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) abroad as are involved in the U.S. English classes. The methods for teaching ESL or teaching EFL are the same, only the location and lesson content are different.

Many churches and faith based organizations use ESL classes as a community outreach ministry. One goal of such ministries is to help people with a vital need (learning English) while establishing relationships with them.

Each ESL ministry is unique. In the past most in Texas were morning ESL and craft classes held at a church. They served adult family members and preschoolers of people who were in the work force. Currently ESL ministries serve internationals, refugees and immigrants of all ages. They include a spectrum of classes including ESL, citizenship, computers and activities such as family literacy and youth tutoring. They are also held at many different locations and times of day or evening on any day of the week. Most volunteer teachers and workers in the past were retirees and stay at home moms.  However today volunteers range in age from teenagers to seniors and many have full time regular jobs.

Literacy ConneXus offers churches guidance in beginning ESL ministries with Ministries of Excellence (MOE) – a preparation guide on how to start an ESL ministry. Click here for a Checklist for Starting an ESL Ministry. This is a 20 step outline.  For a detailed explanation of each step, request a copy of Ministries of Excellence from the Literacy ConneXus ESL Coordinator, Robin Feistel (936-564-6017 or robinesl@sbcglobal.net). MOE is available by email or by snail mail as a CD. Robin is also available to answer your questions and give you the name of an ESL Ministry Consultant in your area.

Ministries of Excellence also includes a self study for existing ESL ministries to use to evaluate and improve their outreach.

One important step in beginning and continuing a quality ESL ministry is basic training for the new English teachers and continuing education for the more experienced teachers. Volunteer ESL trainers are available to do new ESL teacher training. Check the Literacy ConneXus calendar for the dates of training throughout the state. Contact the ESL Coordinator, Robin Feistel, for more information about ESL trainings or to volunteer to host a new ESL teacher training.

TEX (Teaching English with Excellence) is a training developed for new ESL teachers. Its flexibility allows trainers to work with the ESL leadership to decide the number of exact hours and content of the first and follow up trainings. Click here for a more detailed explanation of TEX.

Regional and state ESL conferences are held periodically to provide experienced ESL teachers with additional training and opportunities for directors to refine their leadership skills. Check the calendar or contact the ESL Coordinator, Robin Feistel, for upcoming dates.

By filling out the on-line ESL ministry survey you will be added to mass emailings to receive information on future ESL teacher trainings and conferences.