Master of Divinity (MDiv) Christ-centered preparation for pastoral leadership
At A Glance
78
Semester credit hours
$590*
Cost per semester credit hour
4 Years
Average completion time**
Accreditation
ATS (Association of Theological Schools), NWCCU
Format
Virtual, with BridgeWeek face-to-face in Portland each semester
Application Deadlines
Rolling application deadline; apply now for the next fall cohort
* All stated financial information is subject to change. Financial aid available.
** Based on taking 8 credit hours of study per term in the fall and spring semesters and 4 credit hours for 1-2 summers
For those called to be Christian leaders, it is essential to have a firm understanding of Christian heritage and theology as well as the wisdom to apply one’s knowledge in love and service.
As a Master of Divinity graduate, you will be prepared to take on the role of church planter, pastor, chaplain or nonprofit leader. This is the program for you if you’re looking to be both listened to and challenged so that you might in turn inspire personal and social change in your ministry context.
At the heart of Portland Seminary is a commitment to the spiritual formation of each student. Formation into Christlikeness prepares us to engage the world for the sake of Christ, and no matter what program you pursue, you will engage in an intentionally designed spiritual formation curriculum.
Specializations
- Biblical Studies: You are interested in studying theology and spiritual formation at a more advanced level
- Chaplaincy: You have a heart to be a chaplain who serves people going through crises or trauma
- Christian History and Theology: You want to study the diversity of the body of Christ and Christian tradition
- Spiritual Direction: You desire to work in a pastoral or soul-companion role or as someone who provides pastoral and leader support
- Spiritual Formation and Discipleship: You plan to serve in specific ministries or as a spiritual director in any capacity
What Will I Experience?
- Interact with Christian Scripture, history and theology to analyze, interpret and express findings faithfully
- Pursue an ever-deepening sense of the reality of Jesus Christ through spiritual formation
- Learn how to relate to others as people created in God's image
- Support the transformation of societies through personal and social holiness motivated by love
- Engage in spiritual formation that involves the intersection of Scripture, theology, psychology, biology and social-cultural factors
- Exercise pastoral care, preach, equip, and lead the diverse and local church body and Christian communities at large
- Practice classic spiritual disciplines as well as intentional holistic awareness
- Be held accountable by a cohort community to continue practicing what is taught in the academic environment
Program Experiences
- Fall Term (August-December)
- Spring Term (January-April/May)
- Summer Term (May- July or August), which includes a three- to five-day in-person intensive in May or June
- WaterFront is a required three-day orientation for new students (with the exception of those enrolled in the spiritual direction certification program) every August. This event is full of opportunities for students to connect with faculty, other new students, make final preparations for studies, and participate in spiritual formation activities.
- BridgeWeek is the seventh week of every semester when all distance students come to Portland for face-to-face intensives. Special events are offered in the evenings.
Flexible Format
The Master of Divinity is a four-year program in which you study with diverse faculty and cohort peers.
Our hybrid format blends online learning with intensive in-person instruction at two points during the year.
What does a hybrid format look like?
- Connect with a vibrant cohort of learners who grow in faith and ministry skills through a variety of experiences: traditional classroom lessons, special off-site events and “hybrid” online courses.
- Meet periodically through video chat for hybrid online courses, all held on Thursdays or meet weekly on Mondays through fully online courses
- Attend BridgeWeek in Portland every October and February (7th week of classes)
Master of Divinity Requirements
×Biblical Studies Courses (20 hours)
Complete the following:
Introduces students to the literature of the Old Testament in its socio-historical, literary, and theological contexts with particular interest in spiritual formation and Christian practice.
Introduces students to the literature of the New Testament in its socio-historical, literary, and theological contexts with particular interest in spiritual formation and Christian practice.
Building on the skills and knowledge of BIST 501, this course introduces more advanced exegetical methods through a variety of Old Testament texts. Special attention will be paid to major theological themes such as holiness, justice, theodicy, divine presence and absence, worship, trauma and how these themes are applicable to today's communities of faith. Prerequisite: BIST 501.
Building on the skills and knowledge of BIST 502, this course engages students with the nature of interpretation (hermeneutics) as well as methods and tools that support interpretation (exegesis). Special emphasis will be placed on key moral and theological concerns today and how a variety of viewpoints, methods, and approaches help the reader of the Bible move from ancient text to modern life. Important topics related to the canon will also be included such as the inspiration, authority, and composition of the Bible. Prerequisite: BIST 502.
Choose two of the following:
First course in the Hebrew language sequence, this is an introduction to Hebrew grammar and syntax. Reading and analysis of selected Old Testament texts, and introduction to digital and print resources, such as grammars, lexicons and original language software.
Second course of the Hebrew language sequence, continues to develop mastery of Hebrew morphology and syntax, primarily through reading selected Old Testament texts. Advanced exegetical methods are introduced. Prerequisite: BIST511.
First course in the Greek langauge sequence, in which the student is exposed to the basic principles of New Testament Greek grammar, syntax, and exegesis, to the Greek text of the New Testament, and to the major tools used in its study. While the basics of Greek have to be the center of focus in this introductory course, attention also is given to the Greek text of the New Testament.
Second course of the Greek language sequence, adds to the student’s knowledge and understanding of New Testament Greek through further exposure to the Greek text of the New Testament. While it pays close attention to matters of grammar, the central focus is the text itself, its interpretation, and its use. Prerequisite: BIST521.
Choose two of the following:
Class will apply the interpretive skills developed in BIST503, with special attention on the exegetical issues of the designated Old Testament book. Prerequisite: BIST 503 or permission of instructor.
Class will apply the interpretive skills developed in BIST 504, with special attention on the exegetical issues of the designated New Testament book. Prerequisite: BIST 504 or permission of instructor.
Explores the ancient Near Eastern contexts for the Old Testament through study of extra-biblical texts and Levantine archaeology. Special attention will be given to how text and artifact contribute to an informed understanding of Old Testament texts and its relevance for today.
Reviews both the Jewish and Greco-Roman context of the New Testament. Students will be engaged in primary texts through translation with particular emphasis on their contribution to an informed New Testament hermeneutic.
Christian History and Theology Courses (16 hours)
Complete the following:
Covers the development of Christianity and Christian theology from the end of the apostolic period through the 16th century. Examines the expansion of the Church, the evolvement of Christian institutions and practice, the conflicts that confronted the Church from within and without, the reform of the Church, and the theological development of doctrines such as the soteriology, Trinity, Christology, grace and free will, and theology of the cross.
This course takes a constructive theological approach, integrating Christian doctrine and contemporary theologies in the church. It builds upon the student’s engagement with historical development of theology, focusing on the Trinity and key considerations in atonement and pneumatology. The principal goal is to reflect upon the normative sources for theology, with a view toward equipping students to engage their own denomination's theological development.
This course examines how Christianity developed in North America from the 15th to the 21st centuries. Special attention will be paid to the role of evangelicalism in American churches, the creative ways that Americans contextualize Christianity, and the contributions that American religious innovators make to global theological conversations.
An introduction to the origins, histories, myths, and basic tenets of other religious traditions in the world and how Christians might engage them in meaningful interaction. Involving a research project and on site visits, a concerted effort will be made to show the common humanity of the people who follow other religions. Co-learners will guard against viewing people from other religions as the "excluded other” by understanding commonalities and celebrating differences.
Choose two of the following:
Examines the status, roles, and contributions of women and men as they pertain to gender in the history of Christianity and explores the biblical and theological basis for gender equality. Investigating the effects of gender theory in culture and Christian thought, discussion will be aimed toward practical considerations for the flourishing of women and men in the church today.
An exploration of the guiding assumptions and frameworks undergirding various ethical positions and their claims, especially in relationship to Christian theology. The course also analyzes the relationship between context and ethics, specifically as it pertains to the church and its role in the formation of Christian ethics. Implications for the practice of ethics in personal, social, economic, and political problems of our contemporary world will be examined and evaluated.
Explores both historical and current manifestations of colonialism as a preparation for holistic, shalom-based, postcolonial Christianity and mission, noting those theologians and movements who understood their faith in juxtaposition to Empire, including Jesus himself. The course will pay special attention to North America's colonial imprint and current postcolonial theologies.
Leadership Courses (12 hours)
Complete the following:
Explores the work of God in the world by examining a missional ecclesiology that is biblical, historical, contextual, eschatological, and can be translated into practice. Attention is given to the gospel as it relates to culture. What is the church? What is the church for? What is our role in relationship to the church? These questions provide the framework for the course.
Designed to assist leaders and their communities in understanding and engaging in faithful transformation of the cultures, systems, and structures of their context. The course follows a practical theological approach, engaging in description, theological evaluation, and transformational practice while drawing insights from various disciplines to help discern effective and faithful change.
Studies the biblical, historical, and cultural approaches to leadership. The qualities and skills of the missional leader are discussed with particular emphases on the leader's global view of Christianity, the leader's creative and entrepreneurial development, and his or her stewardship of gifts and responsibility.
The purpose of this course is to explore the questions: What is spiritual formation & discipleship? What is the spiritual leader's role? and How does formation & discipleship happen in the current cultural context and in the church? The course focuses on formation as a spiritual and holistic experience. The scriptural, theological, developmental, pedagogical, and biological nature of formation and discipleship are explored.
Part I of a course that builds the capacity of women and men to effectively develop ministry leadership skills for an ethnically diverse world. This course will explore theoretical approaches to ethnic studies and contextual theologies in dialogue with present-day ministry contexts. Special consideration will be given to promoting intersectional reconciliation of men and women and racial/ethnic groups. (Note: it is required that students take both MLDR 525 and MLDR 535 in direct sequence.)
Part II of a course that builds the capacity of women and men to effectively develop ministry leadership skills for an ethnically diverse world. Having built a foundation in race and ethnic theory in part I, this course will focus on a deep exploration of a particular ethnic social location, whether the Latino/a, African American, or Asian American church. Course content will integrate contextual theologies with perspectives of ministry leadership from the specified ethnic church community. (Note: it is required that students take both MLDR 525 and MLDR 535 in direct sequence; afterwards, MLDR 535 may be repeated for credit.)
Pastoral Studies Courses (12 hours; 10 hours if completing Spiritual Direction Specialization)
Complete the following:
Note: Master of Divinity with Spiritual Direction students do not take PSTD 522 and will complete 10 credits in this area.
Examines the purposes of worship and its biblical, theological, and historical roots. It also focuses on evaluating current trends in worship, understanding the connection of worship to evangelism, learning how to plan and lead worship, and exploring the role of music and the arts in worship.
Introduces students to the theology of preaching and to the principles of sermon construction and delivery. The purpose of preaching as an essential element in the ministry of the church will be considered, as well as the various sermon types and communication techniques used to convey the timeless message of Scripture within a contemporary setting.
Analyzes the theological, biblical, and historical basis for various models of pastoral ministry. Students will reflect on the meaning of call and ordination and work on developing professional competencies with presiding over the sacraments and performing funerals and weddings. (Note: students who take PSTD 513 must also take PSTD 514, unless permission to take just one is granted by the instructor.)
Analyzes the theological, biblical, and historical basis for developing one's values in and philosophy of pastoral ministry. Students will work on developing professional competencies with providing educational and prophetic leadership to the local community. (Note: students who take PSTD 513 must also take PSTD 514, unless permission to take just one is granted by the instructor.)
An introduction to the counseling role of the minister or spiritual director. The purpose of the course is to acquaint the student with a basic counseling method in relation to the typical situations encountered in ministry. Special attention will be given to healthy differentiation and ministerial ethics. One of the principal objectives will be to help the student recognize when and how to refer persons to qualified mental health professionals. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 521 and PSTD 522, in direct sequence).
An introduction to the counseling role of the minister or spiritual director. The purpose of the course is to acquaint the student with a basic counseling method in relation to the typical situations encountered in ministry. Special attention will be given to healthy differentiation and ministerial ethics. One of the principal objectives will be to help the student recognize when and how to refer persons to qualified mental health professionals. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 521 and PSTD 522, in direct sequence).
Spiritual Formation and Discipleship Courses (6 hours)
Complete the following:
Provides an opportunity for students to develop self-awareness in the context of their Christian faith and preparation for ministry. It equips students to reflect critically and constructively on their mission and vision, personal spiritual histories, and the strengths, weaknesses, and spirituality of their personality types.
Gives students opportunities to explore images of God portrayed in the Scriptures and in the mystical traditions of the Church. Students compare these images and traditions to those that have shaped their own thoughts, emotions, and actions. Students are able to inform, strengthen, and transform their images and experiences.
Provides an opportunity for students to develop deeper and more satisfying prayer lives in the context of a global environment. As the essential relational discipline of the Christian journey, prayer is examined and experienced in its diverse ecclesial, ethnic, and cultural forms as found in Scripture, Christian history, and the Church.
Introduces students to some of the classic disciplines and practices of the spiritual life, including self-examination and confession, keeping Sabbath, simplicity, justice and compassion, and embodiment. These spiritual practices are explored in order to become aware of and engage the presence of God in one’s life.
Provides an opportunity for students to develop awareness to shame, that in its personal, relational, structural, and cultural dimensions can interfere with the ability to live into God’s grace. Students will practice skills of reflecting on experiences of shame and grace, thereby beginning a process of developing resilience to shame.
Examines the unique nature and responsibility of spiritual leadership. It analyzes the theology of spiritual leadership and reviews elements such as accountability, boundaries, devotional habits, life balance, retreats, solitude, and emotional, spiritual, and physical health. The course also delves into some of the things that inhibit the exercise of spiritual leadership.
Specializations (Students must select one or complete the elective option)
Choose one of the following:
Biblical Studies (12 hours)
Choose two of the following BIST course pairings:
BIST 523 and 533
Class will apply the interpretive skills developed in BIST503, with special attention on the exegetical issues of the designated Old Testament book. Prerequisite: BIST 503 or permission of instructor.
Explores the ancient Near Eastern contexts for the Old Testament through study of extra-biblical texts and Levantine archaeology. Special attention will be given to how text and artifact contribute to an informed understanding of Old Testament texts and its relevance for today.
BIST 524 and 534
Class will apply the interpretive skills developed in BIST 504, with special attention on the exegetical issues of the designated New Testament book. Prerequisite: BIST 504 or permission of instructor.
Reviews both the Jewish and Greco-Roman context of the New Testament. Students will be engaged in primary texts through translation with particular emphasis on their contribution to an informed New Testament hermeneutic.
BIST 551 and 552
Studio course: Through weekly readings in Hebrew in biblical and extra-biblical texts (Dead Sea Scrolls, Northwest Semitic inscriptions, Targums, etc.), students will develop stronger competencies in all aspects of the biblical languages. Prerequisites BIST 511 or permission of instructor. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 551 and BIST 552).
BIST 555 and 565
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 555 and BIST 565).
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 555 and BIST 565).
BIST 556 and 557
The course explores the usage of the biblical themes and metaphors in various avenues in which Christianity and culture intersect, including politics, art, and various traditional and social media outlets. The course will help the students to develop tools for sophisticated analysis of popular culture. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 556 and BIST 557).
As films fulfill the human need to “share a common memory,” this course investigates the use of biblical narratives and themes in a broad selection of films, both major studio and independent. Students will analyze and assess the methods in which the artists engage with biblical materials, expanding their ability to discuss biblical themes across popular culture. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 556 and BIST 557).
BIST 562 and 563
Through weekly readings in Greek in biblical and extra-biblical texts (Septuagint, Greek Apocrypha and Greek Pseudepigrapha, Attic Greek texts, etc), students will develop stronger competencies in all aspects of the biblical languages. Prerequisite: BIST521 or permission of instructor.
Through weekly readings in Greek in biblical and extra-biblical texts (Septuagint, Dead Sea Scrolls, etc.), students will develop stronger competencies in all aspects of the biblical languages. Prerequisite: BIST 521 and BIST 562 or permission of instructor.
Complete the following:
A unique practicum experience in which students participate in an internship in order to gain expertise in the tasks of their degree specialization. The practicum component is coupled with guidance and mentoring of a site supervisor and faculty who facilitate processes of integration. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 568 and PSTD 569).
A unique practicum experience in which students participate in an internship in order to gain expertise in the tasks of their degree specialization. The practicum component is coupled with guidance and mentoring of a site supervisor and faculty who facilitate processes of integration. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 568 and PSTD 569).
Chaplaincy (12 hours)
Complete the following:
Chaplain internship at an approved CPE center. See Hospital Chaplaincy section of the MDiv program description for more information. (Note: it is required that students take PSTD 562, PSTD 563, and PSTD 564).
Chaplain internship at an approved CPE center. Upon completion of one CPE unit, the student sends a copy of the final supervisor's report to the CPE director in order to receive 6 credits of CPE. See Hospital Chaplaincy section of the MDiv program description for more information. (Note: it is required that students take PSTD 562, 563, and PSTD 564).
Exploration of theories and practices for chaplaincy ministry related to issues of grief and loss. (Note: it is required that students take PSTD 562, PSTD 563, and PSTD 564).
Complete one of the following elective pairings:
BIST 523 and 533
Class will apply the interpretive skills developed in BIST503, with special attention on the exegetical issues of the designated Old Testament book. Prerequisite: BIST 503 or permission of instructor.
Explores the ancient Near Eastern contexts for the Old Testament through study of extra-biblical texts and Levantine archaeology. Special attention will be given to how text and artifact contribute to an informed understanding of Old Testament texts and its relevance for today.
BIST 524 and 534
Class will apply the interpretive skills developed in BIST 504, with special attention on the exegetical issues of the designated New Testament book. Prerequisite: BIST 504 or permission of instructor.
Reviews both the Jewish and Greco-Roman context of the New Testament. Students will be engaged in primary texts through translation with particular emphasis on their contribution to an informed New Testament hermeneutic.
BIST 551 and 552
Studio course: Through weekly readings in Hebrew in biblical and extra-biblical texts (Dead Sea Scrolls, Northwest Semitic inscriptions, Targums, etc.), students will develop stronger competencies in all aspects of the biblical languages. Prerequisites BIST 511 or permission of instructor. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 551 and BIST 552).
BIST 555 and 565
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 555 and BIST 565).
The course explores the usage of the biblical themes and metaphors in various avenues in which Christianity and culture intersect, including politics, art, and various traditional and social media outlets. The course will help the students to develop tools for sophisticated analysis of popular culture. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 556 and BIST 557).
BIST 556 and 557
The course explores the usage of the biblical themes and metaphors in various avenues in which Christianity and culture intersect, including politics, art, and various traditional and social media outlets. The course will help the students to develop tools for sophisticated analysis of popular culture. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 556 and BIST 557).
As films fulfill the human need to “share a common memory,” this course investigates the use of biblical narratives and themes in a broad selection of films, both major studio and independent. Students will analyze and assess the methods in which the artists engage with biblical materials, expanding their ability to discuss biblical themes across popular culture. (Note: it is required that students take both BIST 556 and BIST 557).
BIST 562 and 563
Through weekly readings in Greek in biblical and extra-biblical texts (Septuagint, Greek Apocrypha and Greek Pseudepigrapha, Attic Greek texts, etc), students will develop stronger competencies in all aspects of the biblical languages. Prerequisite: BIST521 or permission of instructor.
Through weekly readings in Greek in biblical and extra-biblical texts (Septuagint, Dead Sea Scrolls, etc.), students will develop stronger competencies in all aspects of the biblical languages. Prerequisite: BIST 521 and BIST 562 or permission of instructor.
CHTH 546 and 547
Wrestles with Old Testament theologies of Creation, earthkeeping, and the role of humanity in the created order. Students will engage the history and development of these ideas within the Church, and consider how this legacy relates to the current state of the world. Students will explore the diverse issues corresponding to Sabbath and will engage in ecopraxis involving Sabbathkeeping. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 546 and CHTH 547).
Explores ecotheology through the lens of the New Testament. Students will analyze how the doctrines of Trinity, pneumatology, and soteriology relate to the current state of the world. Students will also investigate the ecological issues of food, water, and waste and will engage in ecopraxis related to those issues. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 546 and CHTH 547).
CHTH 548 and 549
Immerses students in an experience of the natural world during an extended retreat. Students will reflect on the wonder of Creation and the immanence of God. They will engage such issues as climate change, agrarianism, and the relationship between science and faith. Students will have the opportunity to explore practical ways to build simple living into their daily lives. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 548 and CHTH 549).
Course builds on Keeping the Garden by exploring how faith communities can "green" their local worship and ministry. Students will investigate "green teams," community gardens, educational programs, and advocacy for God's Creation. They will continue to have the opportunity to explore practical ways to build simple living into their lives and their faith communities. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 548 and CHTH 549).
CHTH 550 and 551
An examination of Indigenous spiritualities from a Christian perspective and its relationship to Americans from every culture. Students will be exposed to the spirituality of America’s First Nations and others through readings, shared experiences, and various media. The values associated with the Indigenous American harmony concept will be explored along with an understanding of Indigenous American theologies of the land. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 550 and CHTH 551).
Immerses students in the natural world during a five-day retreat. Students will abide in Creation and experience the beauty and hope of our immanent God. They will consider Shalom and Indigenous understandings of the land and the relationship between science and faith. They will engage current issues such as agriculture, conservation, land use, and consumption of natural resources. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 550 and CHTH 551).
CHTH 558 and 559
CHTH 560 and 561
Explores the influence of John and Charles Wesley and the Methodist movement as it expands and intersects with the Holiness Movement. Attention will be given to the theological tenets of the Holiness movement and the rise of nineteenth century Wesleyan-holiness denominations in relation to their social context. Prerequisite: CHTH 560 or permission of instructor. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 560 and CHTH 561).
CHTH 562 and 563
Examines movements and people within Christianity who have brought spiritual renewal to the church, including monasticism, the mystics, the Reformers, Pietism, the Wesleyan/evangelical revival, and certain present-day examples. Focuses not only on history, but also on themes within spiritual renewal and on insights that can be drawn for the contemporary believer and church.
CHTH 555 and 565
A group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 555 & 565.)
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 555 and CHTH 565).
Christian History and Theology (12 hours)
Choose two of the following CHTH course pairings:
CHTH 546 and 547
Wrestles with Old Testament theologies of Creation, earthkeeping, and the role of humanity in the created order. Students will engage the history and development of these ideas within the Church, and consider how this legacy relates to the current state of the world. Students will explore the diverse issues corresponding to Sabbath and will engage in ecopraxis involving Sabbathkeeping. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 546 and CHTH 547).
Explores ecotheology through the lens of the New Testament. Students will analyze how the doctrines of Trinity, pneumatology, and soteriology relate to the current state of the world. Students will also investigate the ecological issues of food, water, and waste and will engage in ecopraxis related to those issues. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 546 and CHTH 547).
CHTH 548 and 549
Immerses students in an experience of the natural world during an extended retreat. Students will reflect on the wonder of Creation and the immanence of God. They will engage such issues as climate change, agrarianism, and the relationship between science and faith. Students will have the opportunity to explore practical ways to build simple living into their daily lives. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 548 and CHTH 549).
Course builds on Keeping the Garden by exploring how faith communities can "green" their local worship and ministry. Students will investigate "green teams," community gardens, educational programs, and advocacy for God's Creation. They will continue to have the opportunity to explore practical ways to build simple living into their lives and their faith communities. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 548 and CHTH 549).
CHTH 528 and 529
Course studies the variety of human culture through the discipline of anthropology and indigenous scholars. Students engage perspectives from both non-indigenous anthropology and the indigenous community, particularly within the Indigenous North American context, and explore its relationship to today’s world. (Note: it is required that students take both MLDR 548 and MLDR 549).
Course provides an examination of the history of Christian mission among Indigenous peoples, current Indigenous life, and Indigenous spiritualities in geographic, regionally specific studies that connect to both global issues and local context. Students explore issues such as the harmony ethic, building a theology of the land, and various indigenous religious practices in relation to the Christian faith. (Note: it is required that students take both MLDR 548 and MLDR 549).
CHTH 550 and 551
An examination of Indigenous spiritualities from a Christian perspective and its relationship to Americans from every culture. Students will be exposed to the spirituality of America’s First Nations and others through readings, shared experiences, and various media. The values associated with the Indigenous American harmony concept will be explored along with an understanding of Indigenous American theologies of the land. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 550 and CHTH 551).
Immerses students in the natural world during a five-day retreat. Students will abide in Creation and experience the beauty and hope of our immanent God. They will consider Shalom and Indigenous understandings of the land and the relationship between science and faith. They will engage current issues such as agriculture, conservation, land use, and consumption of natural resources. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 550 and CHTH 551).
CHTH 558 and 559
CHTH 560 and 561
Explores the influence of John and Charles Wesley and the Methodist movement as it expands and intersects with the Holiness Movement. Attention will be given to the theological tenets of the Holiness movement and the rise of nineteenth century Wesleyan-holiness denominations in relation to their social context. Prerequisite: CHTH 560 or permission of instructor. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 560 and CHTH 561).
CHTH 562 and 563
Examines movements and people within Christianity who have brought spiritual renewal to the church, including monasticism, the mystics, the Reformers, Pietism, the Wesleyan/evangelical revival, and certain present-day examples. Focuses not only on history, but also on themes within spiritual renewal and on insights that can be drawn for the contemporary believer and church.
CHTH 555 and 565
A group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 555 & 565.)
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor. (Note: it is required that students take both CHTH 555 and CHTH 565).
Complete the following:
A unique practicum experience in which students participate in an internship in order to gain expertise in the tasks of their degree specialization. The practicum component is coupled with guidance and mentoring of a site supervisor and faculty who facilitate processes of integration. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 568 and PSTD 569).
A unique practicum experience in which students participate in an internship in order to gain expertise in the tasks of their degree specialization. The practicum component is coupled with guidance and mentoring of a site supervisor and faculty who facilitate processes of integration. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 568 and PSTD 569).
Spiritual Direction (14 hours)
Complete the following:
Gives students the opportunity in a seminar format to come to a deeper awareness of who they are and why they do what they do. Through practices and tools such as centering prayer, the enneagram, and the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, students will become healthier servant leaders through an intentional formation of their identities. (Note: it is required that students take both SFAD 551 and SFAD 552).
Gives students the opportunity in a seminar format to come to a deeper awareness of who they are and why they do what they do. Through practices and tools such as centering prayer, the enneagram, and the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, students will become healthier servant leaders through an intentional formation of their identities. (Note: it is required that students take both SFAD 551 and SFAD 552).
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor in a seminar format. (Note: students are required to take both SFAD 555 and 565).
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor in a seminar format. (Note: students are required to take both SFAD 555 and 565).
This course focuses on hosting spiritual conversations for soul companions. Generous listening is a core practice for intentionally guiding persons in their spiritual growth and at center of training for spiritual directors. This course explores the historical, theological, biblical, and psychological premises for soul companionship and introduces students to core practices. Students will reflect on meaning and definitions of hosting spiritual conversations in light of their own experience and the course teachings and personal discernment regarding vocational spiritual direction. Note: it is required that students take SFAD 571 & SFAD 572. Permission from instructor is necessary to enter SFAD 572).
This course continues the students’ training in the discipline of spiritual direction. It addresses professional issues related to being a spiritual director and gives students practical experience in being spiritual directors, under the guidance of certified supervisors. (Note: it is required that students take both SFAD 571 & SFAD 572. Permission from instructor is necessary to enter course. Additional fees: The cost of personal spiritual direction is covered by the student.)
Spiritual Formation and Discipleship (12 hours)
Complete the following:
Gives students the opportunity in a seminar format to come to a deeper awareness of who they are and why they do what they do. Through practices and tools such as centering prayer, the enneagram, and the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, students will become healthier servant leaders through an intentional formation of their identities. (Note: it is required that students take both SFAD 551 and SFAD 552).
Gives students the opportunity in a seminar format to come to a deeper awareness of who they are and why they do what they do. Through practices and tools such as centering prayer, the enneagram, and the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, students will become healthier servant leaders through an intentional formation of their identities. (Note: it is required that students take both SFAD 551 and SFAD 552).
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor in a seminar format. (Note: students are required to take both SFAD 555 and 565).
A small group of students study a specially selected topic with a professor in a seminar format. (Note: students are required to take both SFAD 555 and 565).
Complete the following:
A unique practicum experience in which students participate in an internship in order to gain expertise in the tasks of their degree specialization. The practicum component is coupled with guidance and mentoring of a site supervisor and faculty who facilitate processes of integration. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 568 and PSTD 569).
A unique practicum experience in which students participate in an internship in order to gain expertise in the tasks of their degree specialization. The practicum component is coupled with guidance and mentoring of a site supervisor and faculty who facilitate processes of integration. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 568 and PSTD 569).
Elective Studies (12 hours)
Complete the following:
Seminary students complete 8 elective credits from BIST, CHTH, MLDR, PSTD, or SFAD courses.
A unique practicum experience in which students participate in an internship in order to gain expertise in the tasks of their degree specialization. The practicum component is coupled with guidance and mentoring of a site supervisor and faculty who facilitate processes of integration. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 568 and PSTD 569).
A unique practicum experience in which students participate in an internship in order to gain expertise in the tasks of their degree specialization. The practicum component is coupled with guidance and mentoring of a site supervisor and faculty who facilitate processes of integration. (Note: it is required that students take both PSTD 568 and PSTD 569).
The Word Must Become Flesh
For Joel Sommer, pastor of vision and formation at Access Covenant Church, a multi-ethnic and multilingual congregation in Southeast Portland, the challenge of impacting a community and seeing lives transformed begins with a simple premise: “The Word must become flesh.”
In short, trite greetings and feel-good sermons don’t get the job done.
“We are a community that emphasizes contemplation and Scripture, so it’s key for us to allow the Word and Spirit to lead us to action in the place we live,” says Sommer, a 2011 graduate of Portland Seminary’s Master of Divinity program who founded the church in 2013.
Questions?
Michael Simmons, MA
Admissions Counselor, Seminary