18 courses with the subject PST, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
A field assessment course in which the student will interface with effective church plant(s)/planter(s) in a mature stage of development. The student will investigate the process of church planting from inception to the current state of the church and complete a critical analysis of the process.
This course is a study of the basic principles essential to maintaining health in church-related ministries and caregiving contexts. An emphasis is given to developing a Christ-centered lifestyle. Students will explore personal issues that hinder psychological well-being and impede transformational change. Through participation in small group exercises and service learning projects students are encouraged to develop relationships that facilitate support and accountability.
The Staff Pastor is a course developed to prepare the student to serve successfully on a church leadership team. The student will explore the ministry of the associate pastor. Staff challenges and ministry engagement in small and large church settings will be studied. Some topics covered in the course include ministerial health, conflict management, collaboration, coaching, bi-vocational ministry, and a biblical approach to relationships in ministry.
A study of the basic principles of leadership philosophy, goals and strategies. Includes an overview of leadership styles, time management, conflict resolution, communication, legal issues, development of mission statements, and professional etiquette and ethics.
Youth Ministry can vary greatly from middle school to high school to college. This course takes an in-depth look at how we can address the needs of these age groups, what challenges are faced in reaching and discipling these age groups, and strategies for developing viable ministries to address the unique needs and challenges of these three age-focused groups. Students will be exposed to several outside ministries to observe how the church is currently focusing on each specific age group.
This course equips the student to minister to children and families in the church and community. Budgeting, visitation, organization of children and family ministry, and practical ministry are discussed. Attention is given to children and family worship, relating theological concepts and biblical truths to children, identifying social influences which affect children, and understanding the unique spiritual needs of children and parents. Interaction with, equipping, and supporting, parents, grandparent
A specialized study of senior adult ministry in the light of societal changes resulting from longer life expectancy, early and extended retirement, and productivity in post-retirement years. This course examines the church’s response to this emerging social reality and offers a forum for projecting models for future ministry.
A survey of biblical and sociological principles affecting church growth and decline. The dynamics of both qualitative and quantitative growth will be examined, including methods of assessment and planning for change.
Analysis of the New Testament focus on spiritual gifts as found in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12-14, Ephesians 4, and 1 Peter 4. One third of the course examines biblical interpretation in light of Pentecostal theology. The remainder of the course deals with application of these principles in the development and operation of spiritual gifts in the church.
An overview of the character, qualifications and call of the pastor. Instruction is given in conducting common church ceremonies: water baptism, communion, infant dedication, installation of officers, weddings, and funerals. Includes principles for conducting church business meetings, parliamentary procedure, visitation and pastoral care.
Students will learn about the business aspects of leading a church and the role of church leadership in managing church resources including financial resources, human resources, and physical resources. Topics include the role of management in the church, nonprofit organization incorporation, bylaws, volunteer and staff management, risk management, facilities management, fundraising strategies, tithing, basic accounting terminology and skills, personal and church budgeting process, minister tax law, fi
A biblical foundation for understanding Christian discipleship through both academic study and a community lab experience. Attention is given to both personal development and the discipleship of others.
This course is to prepare the student for his/her internship. Emphasis will be placed upon self understanding, conflict resolution, and the practical concerns faced by interns. Time will also be given to formalize the specifics for each internship. This course is a prerequisite for PST 481.
This phase of the student’s education is to provide a supervised experience in direct ministry. All internships must be approved and processed through the Internship office. Internships can range from 6 to 15 weeks. Students are required to complete practical field work in addition to written work, and field supervisors will assess student performance during the internship. Internships must be major-specific.
This phase of the student’s education is to provide a supervised experience in direct ministry. All internships must be approved and processed through the Internship office. Internships can range from 6 to 15 weeks. Students are required to complete practical field work in addition to written work, and field supervisors will assess student performance during the internship. Internships must be major-specific.
This course will provide the student with extended field experience. The student will gain experience, develop a comfort level with the rigors of church planting, and be mentored by a church planter. Field evaluation and written work will be required for this course.
The culminating preparation for ministerial vocation for seniors in practical ministry majors. In community, students reflect on their experiences, refine skills, prepare portfolios, and work on job placement. (Theological and Biblical Studies Majors take THE 483, Theological Studies Capstone, instead.)
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
Source: University of Valley Forge's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 59
