Pastoral Training

At ETS the Bachelor of Theology (equivalent) accredited by ECTE is attained after three years of full-time study. In Germany, a one-year professional subsequent Internship is required to qualify as a recognized qualification.

It combines theoretical knowledge with practical application and Christian ministry experience and is designed to equip the student for work in a local church, church administration or parachurch activity.

The Foundation Certificate is a required basis for the studies that follow hence its competencies apply to the B.Th. plus the following for the Pastoral Major.

General Competencies

• Acquire a basic understanding of the Bible and use reference works such as Lexica, Concordances and Commentaries effectively.

• Produce a synthesis of the development of the history and theology of the Christian church.

• Understand and apply critical judgment as to the place of the social sciences in Christian ministry.

• During the course of the program to experience spiritual growth, personal development and professional maturity to be able to function competently and responsibly in a leadership capacity.

• Acquire and develop communication and relational skills that will enable practical competence.

• Through spiritual formation and mentoring to appreciate how spiritual development operates.

• To apply the skills and abilities needed for the practice of ministry.

Specific Competencies

• Apply appropriate methodology in the practice of ministry, employ critical thinking and a range of problem-solving devices.

• Operate efficiently in the biblical languages, Greek and Hebrew.

• Analyze situations, plan and organize programs and events.

• Operate comfortably within a wide range of practical and transferable skills that will enable the successful performance of ministerial tasks.

• Exercise leadership and integrity in the specific ministerial field

• Delegate tasks and authority responsibly.