Resilient Ministry: What Pastors Told Us About Surviving and Thriving

Donald C. Guthrie (Author); Bob Burns (Author); Tasha D. Chapman (Author)
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PUBLISHED: February 4, 2013 PUBLISHER: IVP ISBN: 0830841032

What does it take to have fruitful ministry over the long haul?The stresses of pastoring are well known and can be a match for even the best-prepared, most experienced in ministry--multiple tasks, long hours, taxing responsibilities and, yes, some challenging personalities. Too often the results can be burnout, being run out or just feeling worn out.To find out how pastors can thrive as well as survive, the authors undertook a five-year in-depth research project among working pastors. Here in this ground-breaking book is the distilled wisdom of dozens of pastors who have been on the front lines of ministry. We hear from them what works, what doesn't and what distinctive issues people in ministry face.The authors uncover five key themes that promote healthy, sustainable ministry that lasts--spiritual formation, self-care, emotional and cultural intelligence, marriage and family, leadership and management. These themes are unpacked from the vantage point of ministry on the ground. Questions for personal evaluation and reflection are included throughout the book to bring home the significance of each section.This is the perfect companion for a peer cohort of pastors to read together. It can also be of value to church boards and others who want to better understand how to help sustain their pastors in ministry.In short, this is a book pastors can't live without.

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Master's

Christian Ministry

36 CREDITS | 1.5 YEARS

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Be prepared to lead and serve in diverse ministry contexts through a comprehensive understanding of Scripture,theology and theory. This program equips students to serve faithfully in a variety of ministry situations, providing wisdom and shepherding that reflect Christian convictions.

COURSEWORK

  • Biblical Studies – 6hrs.
  • Theological Studies – 8hrs.
    • Introduction to Biblical Theology
    • The Christian Life and Contemporary Challenges
    • Christian Ethics
    • Understanding Social and Cultural Contexts
  • Ministry Core – 8hrs.
    • Spiritual Formation for Ministry
    • Intro to Counseling Ministries
    • Christian Leadership
    • Teaching & Learning
  • Electives – 12hrs.
  • Select one option from the following:
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    • Formation Group (three semesters)
  • Capstone – 2hrs.

TOTAL: 36hrs.

Doctor of Philosophy

Educational Studies

50 CREDITS | 4 YEARS

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The Doctor of Philosophy program in Educational Studies incorporates particular concept areas to expand your professional capacities in research and educational leadership. You will be challenged to integrate faith and learning at every step of the program as you engage these areas in a variety of experiences and academic seminars.

COURSEWORK

  • Core – 15hrs.
  • Research Methods – 9hrs.
  • Electives – 15hrs.
  • Orientation – 1hr.
  • Comps, Proposal, Dissertation
    • 9975: Comprehensive Exams prep – 2hrs.
    • 9990: Dissertation Proposal prep – 2hrs.
    • 9991: Dissertation – 6hr.

TOTAL: 50hrs.

ThM

Master of Theology

24 CREDITS | 1 YEAR

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The Master of Theology (ThM) program is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in theological research, critical analysis, and ministry practice. Students focus on a particular discipline as well as taking a variety of courses across the curriculum to encourage integrative thinking and preparation for further ministry or academic study.

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  • Concentration Core: 20 hours
  • Capstone: 4 hours
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Children and Family Ministry

12 CREDITS | 1 YEAR

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Gain a deeper understanding of spiritual formation, stewarding a ministry team, curriculum building, church leadership and administration, roles of family in spiritual development and intergenerational, family, and children’s ministry care. This certificate will equip you to serve children and families in the local church and ministry contexts.

COURSEWORK

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