Writing as Ministry Certificate

The written word is a powerful undercurrent flowing through Quaker history. We offer the Writing as Ministry Certificate to help writers develop a vital ministry in this field.

The certificate is designed for those who are engaged in writing as a vocation, and for those who are interested in exploring this powerful public ministry. Studies span the practice of writing for multiple genres, as well as understanding writing in a theological, biblical and historical context.

ABOUT THE WRITING AS MINISTRY CERTIFICATE

The program consists of six courses and can be completed within two years.

Core courses:

  • Writing Seminar
  • Capstone

Required ancillary courses (choose three):

  • Writing the Story
  • Creative Non-Fiction
  • Public Theology
  • Writing for God and God’s People
  • Special Topics (i.e. Writing Mental Illness and Writing as Craft and Mindfulness)

Required intro course from another field of study (choose one):

  • BS 101 – Introduction to Old Testament History and Literature
  • BS 102 – Introduction to New Testament History and Literature
  • HS 101 – History of Christianity I
  • HS 102 – History of Christianity II
  • PJ 101 – Introduction to Peace and Justice
  • TS 101 – Introduction to Theological Reflection

Our faculty

This certificate program is led by Ben Brazil, assistant professor and director of the Ministry as Writing program.

Next steps

Ministry isn’t just a vocation or a calling—it’s a way of being in this world, seeking to make it whole. ESR is ready to support you in answering your own call to ministry, whatever shape it takes.