Students will develop their own voice and gifts for preaching through learning exegetical skills, attending to particular cultural and social contexts for preaching, and gaining familiarity with current homiletical theories and various forms of sermonic design. Through readings, lectures, discussion forums, and the preparation, delivery and evaluation of sermons, each student will learn the art and practice of sermon preparation as it relates to his or her ministry. On-site mentors and focus groups will facilitate the learning process. In addition, students will develop skills for critical listening/watching and constructive evaluation of sermons.

This course aims to further students' preparation for ministry through work in a setting appropriate for their calling/gifts and through reflection on their experiences. Each week, supervision by an experienced practitioner provides feedback, guidance, nurture, and evaluation, as does the seminar in which students present and process incidents in ministry. Skills in listening, theological reflection, analysis, problem solving, peer support, discernment, and understanding of individual and group dynamics in congregations and organizations are developed further through this process. Over the year, students attend at least 30 hours of workshops related to their ministry. Other written work includes a contextual study, weekly reflections and a covenant detailing the student's goals and plans for learning/serving.

This course aims to further students' preparation for ministry through work in a setting appropriate for their calling/gifts and through reflection on their experiences. Each week, supervision by an experienced practitioner provides feedback, guidance, nurture, and evaluation, as does the seminar in which students present and process incidents in ministry. Skills in listening, theological reflection, analysis, problem solving, peer support, discernment, and understanding of individual and group dynamics in congregations and organizations are developed further through this process. Over the year, students attend at least 30 hours of workshops related to their ministry. Other written work includes a contextual study, weekly reflections and a covenant detailing the student's goals and plans for learning/serving.

This seminar is part of the evaluation process in the student's achievement of a degree and is to be taken in the spring semester before the degree is to be granted. It enables the student to have an experience in integrating learning from all areas of the curriculum around a given problem. The seminar also serves to strengthen a student in areas of weakness.

A year-long course meeting once a week providing a formational context in which to process seminary life and discern readiness to participate in Ministry Formation 301 A and B. This course will explore the various aspects of Christian ministry with particular attention to pastoral/ congregational ministries. Students will examine social and spiritual shaping of ministerial identity through specific readings, small group work, theological reflection, and ministry site visits/interviews.

Participants will engage in critical and constructive reflection concurrent with their field education placement. In the large group, a variety of ministry topics will be considered. In smaller groups, students will work with case studies and the ministry resources of their faith journeys. Group interaction and leadership are important components pf the learning process. A total of 6 semester hours of credit will be granted at the completion of the year long course.