Introduction to Pastoral Ministry

In this introductory subject, students will explore a broad variety of topics that form the very basis of pastoral ministry. Primarily, students will consider contemporary pastoral models that connect academic reflection with the real world. Topics discussed will range from defining ministry, calling and ordination to conflict resolution, and being effective in caring for others. Students will also be provided with ample opportunity to engage creatively with these topics to make connections with their own contexts.

Awards offering Introduction to Pastoral Ministry

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

• Associate Degree in Ministry
• Bachelor of Applied Social Science
• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Applied Social Science
• Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Business
• Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education (Secondary)
• Bachelor of Business
• Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Ministry
• Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Theology
• Bachelor of Ministry
• Bachelor of Theology
• Diploma of Arts
• Diploma of Business
• Diploma of Business and Diploma of Entrepreneurship
• Diploma of Business and Diploma of Leadership
• Diploma of Business and Diploma of Ministry
• Diploma of Chaplaincy
• Diploma of Chaplaincy and Diploma of Leadership
• Diploma of Chaplaincy and Diploma of Ministry
• Diploma of Entrepreneurship
• Diploma of Entrepreneurship and Diploma of Leadership
• Diploma of Entrepreneurship and Diploma of Ministry
• Undergraduate Certificate in Arts
• Undergraduate Certificate in Ministry

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

This subject is an introduction to the practice of ministry. It is also an opportunity to overview the biblical and theological foundations of ministry. Common aspects of ministry will be considered.

Outcomes

1. Outline a biblical basis for pastoral ministry;
2. Identify the breadth of issues relevant to pastoral ministry;
3. Describe the convergence of life journey, spiritual experiences and ministry opportunities in developing pastoral ministry
4. Differentiate between various facets of pastoral ministry;
5. Describe pastoral care in line with various relevant models and theories
6. Identify and distinguish pastoral issues as they relate to the well-being of the congregant, pastor, congregation and community

Subject Content

• Pastoral Care
• Biblical Foundations of Pastoral Ministry
• Pastoral Counselling
• Conflict Resolution
• Pastoring in Postmodernism
• Spiritual Health of the Minister
• Human Sexuality and the Minister
• Building Effective Structures
• Calling, Ordination and Women
• Multi-Generational Pastoring

This course may be offered in the following formats

• Face to Face (onsite)
• Distance/E-learning (online)
• Intensive (One week: 7 hours per day for 5 days = 35 class hours + approx 85 hours out of class time for research, writing, exam preparation and execution, ancillary activities associated with completion of assigned tasks)

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

• Student Blog Reflection (20%)
• Minor Essay (20%)
• Major Essay (40%)
• Final Application Essay (20%)

Prescribed Text

• Primary readings provided