Courses

Under supervision of the departmental faculty, students conduct a careful review of the literature on a topic of their choice as well as an empirical study of some portion of the topic. The final written result is submitted in thesis form.

Examines biblical and theological foundations for small group ministry and analyzes the role of groups in spiritual formation within the local church. Explores principles of group dynamics, leadership development, and organizational strategy while evaluating models for cultivating healthy Christian community. Integrates theological reflection with practical planning to prepare students to design and lead accountable, missionally oriented small group ministries.

Continues the Spiritual Formation sequence with particular attention to vocation, character, and servant leadership in Christian life and ministry. Students examine biblical and theological perspectives on calling, spiritual maturity, and leadership, while engaging practices that foster self-awareness, discernment, and sustainable habits for ministry. The course emphasizes the integration of personal formation, life in community, and ongoing participation in the church for faithful and enduring Christian service.

Explores biblical and theological foundations of spiritual formation and examines historical and contemporary understandings of Christian spirituality. Analyzes the processes of spiritual growth, the role of community in formation, and the integration of spiritual disciplines in personal and ministry contexts. Emphasizes critical reflection, theological coherence, and responsible leadership practices that foster mature Christian character and support the spiritual development of others.

Continues the study and practice of spiritual formation with particular attention to the work of the Holy Spirit in personal growth, interpersonal relationships, and Christian community. Students examine themes of character, relational health, and spiritual maturity as they engage practices of daily devotion, theological reflection, and ministry participation. The course emphasizes growth in self-awareness, communication, and faithful relationships in the contexts of family, church, and society.

Examines the relationship between Christian mission and cultural context by integrating theological, historical, and social-scientific perspectives. The course analyzes how cultures shape belief and practice and how the church engages diverse social, political, and religious environments in local and global settings. Students explore biblical and theological foundations of mission, historical patterns of cross-cultural witness, and contemporary challenges such as pluralism, secularization, migration, and globalization. Emphasis is placed on contextual analysis, cultural discernment, and the development of informed ministry practices responsive to complex cultural realities.

Cultivates holistic Christian formation through guided communal practices within theological education and ministry preparation. Integrates reflection on Scripture, theology, and church history with sustained engagement in formative Christian practices, including prayer, worship, and disciplined attention to Scripture. Encourages reflective engagement with personal, vocational, cultural, and sociopolitical questions in light of Christian faith. Emphasizes relational formation through mutual accountability, shared discernment, encouragement, and service within a learning community. The course supports spiritual maturity, vocational clarity, and relational wisdom as integral dimensions of graduate theological formation.

Introduces the biblical, theological, and historical foundations of Christian worship and surveys major expressions of corporate worship across Christian traditions. Examines core elements of worship while exploring the relationship between worship and culture. Emphasizes theological understanding, historical awareness, and foundational competencies for thoughtful participation in and planning of corporate worship within diverse congregational settings.

Examines the theological foundations and core practices of pastoral ministry within the life of the church. Explores pastoral identity, spiritual care, worship leadership, and key ministerial responsibilities, including prayer, preaching, administration of the sacraments, and congregational shepherding. Integrates pastoral theology with practical engagement in ministry practices, attending to biblical, historical, and cultural dimensions. Emphasizes the formation of pastoral judgment and competence for faithful leadership in contemporary ecclesial contexts.