This course offers an introduction to pastoral care by exploring biblicaltheological and psychological foundations for the process of personal and communal healing and restoration. Students are introduced to basic strategies necessary for providing pastoral care to people in congregations and other contexts. These abilities are studied as they apply to various forms of personal and communal crises that care-givers will encounter in ministry.

This course will introduce students to key ideas and practices in pastoral care in the clinical setting. The aims of the class will be to provide students with a foundational understanding of pastoral care around issues particularly relevant to the healthcare context, as well as cultivating spiritual disciplines supporting the well-being of the practitioner.

Laboratory or clinical setting which brings theological students into supervised encounters with persons in crises. The course will help students gain new understanding of human situations and develop skills in interpersonal and interprofessional relationships.

A survey of the comprehensive ministry of the pastor. Attention is given to the personal growth of the pastor, the multifaceted work of the pastor in local church ministry, the biblical and theological basis of shepherding, the structures and programs of church life, community relations, worship, the ordinances, weddings and funerals, and specific pastoral challenges and opportunities.

A survey of the work of chaplains in a variety of institutional settings, such as hospitals, hospice organizations, the military, educational contexts, the criminal justice system, and athletic and corporate environments. The unique role of the chaplain, the role of Clinical Pastoral Education, and full board certification are explored through appropriate readings, field experiences, and conversations with professional chaplains.

This course prepares students with specialized knowledge and skills for the understanding of trauma, loss, grief, and therapeutic interventions for the bereaved.