What Is Pastoral Development?
Pastoral Development is a formative process that encourages the highest possible standards in students planning to enter vocational ministry. This process seeks to be developmental and holistic by recognizing personal growth in students over time, rather than merely applying a fixed standard uniformly. The items assessed in the process toward acceptance are: academic excellence, personal initiative (Social Responsiveness), leadership, spiritual formation (Christ-like Character), and the ability to integrate academic learning into the local ministry context (Creative Engagement).
Prior to achieving Pastoral Development, a student is considered to be in ministry observation/exploration. However, Pastoral Development is mandatory for formal admission to a program of ministry preparation and for graduation with any of the degrees awarded by the Keeran School of Bible and Ministry. In addition, Pastoral Development will be strongly considered in awarding Keeran School of Bible and Ministry scholarships as well as in making recommendations to local churches, pastors, church leaders, and graduate schools.
Questions? View the Pastoral Development Handbook
Items to Complete for Application to Ministerial Standing:
- Complete the Pastoral Development Application.
- Submit a letter of recommendation from the supervisor of your most recent field experience or the current minister of the Church in which you worship. Please note that a church you do not regularly attend during the school year is not a current place of worship. (This is available for them to fill out on Canvas.)
- Submit two peer character references. (This is also available for them to fill out on Canvas.)
- Submit all required artifacts to your portfolio on Canvas for review by the faculty prior to your interview.
Christ-Centered Vision
“The Christ-centered vision of KCU both connected me with people whose influence has shaped me to this day and gave me a foundation in ministry-effectiveness for which I am extremely thankful.”
Kyle Davies, Class of 2013 & 2015
