Advanced study of selected issues in pastoral ministry. Topics may include pastoral leadership, congregational health, ministry formation, spiritual care, conflict engagement, ecclesial identity, or contextual ministry practice. Emphasis is placed on theological reflection, critical analysis, and integrative ministry leadership. Topics vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Examines strategies for proclaiming and applying the biblical message within particular ministry and cultural contexts. Students assess their own ministry settings and homiletical traditions, analyze contextual dynamics that shape preaching, and develop biblically faithful sermons that address specific congregational and cultural realities. Attention is given to theological reflection, contextualization, and the formulation of sermon applications that faithfully interpret Scripture while engaging contemporary audiences.

Examines advanced dimensions of Christian preaching through sustained theological, biblical, and contextual engagement. Develops deeper understanding of proclamation by integrating biblical interpretation, theological reflection, and pastoral responsibility within diverse ministry contexts. Emphasizes critical analysis, contextual discernment, and growth in homiletical judgment and practice. Specific areas of focus may vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Examines focused themes in Christian worship through sustained theological, historical, and contextual study. Investigates particular movements, practices, or theological questions within diverse Christian traditions and cultural settings. Emphasizes critical evaluation, constructive theological reflection, and pastoral application in relation to contemporary ecclesial challenges. Specific topics vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Examines biblical, theological, and practical foundations for evangelism, discipleship, and spiritual formation in contemporary ministry contexts. The course emphasizes personal spiritual formation and disciple-making. Students engage models of evangelism, pathways of discipleship, and practices that foster Christian maturity and mission within diverse and pluralistic settings. Attention is given to forming leaders who embody faithful presence, cultivate spiritual habits, and equip others to follow Jesus within local church and ministry contexts.

Examines pastoral counseling as an integral dimension of pastoral care and congregational shepherding. The course develops competencies in empathic listening, reflection, and discernment while addressing key pastoral counseling concerns such as crisis intervention, suicide prevention, premarital counseling, family systems dynamics, ethical practice, and appropriate referral. Students engage common mental health challenges encountered in ministry contexts, including depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and chronic mental illness.

Examines the theological foundations and methodological practices of biblical preaching with emphasis on genre-sensitive preaching, sermon development, and effective delivery. Students integrate biblical and theological reflection, contextual awareness, and homiletical skills to develop sermons. The course includes in-class sermon presentations with structured peer and instructor evaluation to support growth in preaching competence.

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.

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.

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.