Pastoral Development

The pastoral Development component is assigned to give the lay ministers first hand knowledge, experience and skill in pastoral leadership. The Pastoral Development component includes a hands on practicum. The component includes the following classes and workshops:

Pastoral Theology

Students will learn to understand the connection between the academic disciplines of the theology and pastoral care and be familiar with theological sources to ground, interpret and guide the activity that constitutes the pastoral life of the Church.

Ministerial Role

Students will gain an understanding of the role of the minister within the faith community, to be a witness to the gospel values, and to understand the pastoral concerns and skills appropriate to one’s area of specialty.

Communication Skills

The goal of this component is learning the importance of being an active listener, to attend to both verbal and non- verbal communication; to be empathetic and provide feedback; to withhold and make judgments appropriately.

Leadership Skills

Students will come to understand the role and skills of leadership and to develop skills of strategic pastoral planning, conflict management, problem solving and decision making.

Assessment & Intervention Skills

This session will teach the students how to demonstrate the ability to be empathetic, genuine and respectful, and to maintain confidentiality and objectivity.