These requirements are somewhat stricter than for training courses in other areas, especially poorer rural areas, where candidates for lay training tend to be accepted regardless of their formal educational level. Pastor Gu admits that a short three-month training course can only give participants a basic understanding of theology and their duties as church workers. Nevertheless, Pastor Gu stresses coherence as one of the primary aims of the course. Bible study and training in preaching techniques provide church workers with their most basic tools, while studies in church history and the life of Christ adds to their background knowledge of their faith. Since many course participants will eventually lead their own congregations, practical pastoral issues such as conflict-resolution and religious policy are also dealt with.
Students also receive reminders about proper behavior for evangelists.
Since the recent publication of the selected writings of Bishop K.H. Ting, these have also been included in the curriculum. Usually, this fee is covered by the congregation sending the student. Nevertheless, attending the course still involves great sacrifices for some students. Pastor Gu explains how some participants have even had to give up their jobs to attend the course, since they were not able to apply for three months' extended leave. On returning home, these students not only face the challenge of leading their congregations but also have to look for a new job.