M.Div. Emphasis – Pastoral Ministry
Pastoral work in local congregations remains one of the most visible manifestations of ministry. Even as Friends meetings and protestant churches evolve to meet the changing needs of congregants, pastoral work continues to require mature, thoughtful, theologically grounded ministers who are called to serve in this vital role.
Our Quaker understanding of Christian faith offers unique perspectives to this form of ministry, particularly aspects of spiritual formation and ecclesiology. In choosing the pastoral ministry emphasis, you will receive holistic training that develops emotional, spiritual and intellectual gifts. You will be prepared for the rewarding and sometimes challenging work that comes from engaging people in churches and Friends meetings at a deep, personal level.
ABOUT THE PASTORAL MINISTRY EMPHASIS
Pastoral ministry emphasis courses include Pastoral Spirituality; Work of the Pastor, the Friends Pastor; the Pastor and Religious Education; Introduction to Preaching; the Church’s Mission in the World Community; and Church Administration.
Students, prospective students and those interested in pastoral ministry should plan to attend the Annual ESR Pastors Conference.
Recent and upcoming Pastoral Ministry courses
| Year | Semester | Course Number | Course Name | Course Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | August | PM 240-T | Bivocational Ministry | Two-week intensive |
| 2020 | May | M 340-S | Evangelism in a Postmodern World | Two-week intensive |
| 2020 | May | PM 250-T | Work of the Pastor | Two-week intensive |
| 2020 | Spring | M 241-S | Ministry Across Generations | Weekend intensive |
| 2020 | Spring | PM 150-O | Pastoral Spirituality | Online |
| 2020 | January | M-238-T | Practical Theology of Baptism | Two-week intensive |
Our faculty
Earlham School of Religion teaching faculty create collaborative learning environments where students are engaged and challenged to think deeply and critically about matters of faith, theology and religious practice.
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.