Ministry Skills Program
Introduction
Commencing in 2006 the B.D. (& B.Th.) includes one compulsory unit relating to ministry skills in each year of the course. This stream aims to facilitate integration of theological study with reflection on practical and pastoral matters and to meet the various vocational and denominational needs of students. As a result the Diploma of Ministry (Dip. Min.), formerly offered as a co-requisite of the B.D. (& B.Th.) will no longer be offered.
Rationale of Program
The practise of congregational ministry must be shaped by theology and the Bible. It involves living and nurturing the life of faith in the pastor, individuals, groups and congregations. It is achieved by promoting faithfulness in life and doctrine.
The Congregational Ministry stream is designed to stimulate theological reflection in all areas of practical ministry, and to improve competency in pastoral relationships. It is a four year program with each year building on previous insights at both a deeper level and wider relational setting. Through the course the ability to preach publicly is developed, competency in personal, small group and congregational relationships sharpened, and growth in personal holiness facilitated. Student are introduced to key concepts in learning, teaching and communication to help them begin to apply these to their ministry practice
This program forms the connections between, and supports the benefits derived from, theological reflection during the course, the experience of congregational involvement as part of College chapel and ministry opportunities arising from student ministry positions.
The Dip. Min is no longer available. We now offer three diploma courses.