Mentored Ministry

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Description and Purpose of Mentored Ministry

The primary objective of Mentored Ministry is to provide a context for integration of theory with practical field-based experience. Our program conforms to the guidelines established by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada and the Association for Theological Field Education.

A unique aspect of the M.Div. and M.A. in Educational Ministries degrees at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary is the emphasis placed on Mentored Ministry. A significant amount of integrative learning takes place in the context of ministry. The process is guided by mentors - experienced persons already engaged in ministry.

Mentors are mature Christian ministers who are adequately trained, effective in ministry, yet comfortable with the reality of human limitations. They have expertise gained through advanced education and ministry experience.

The mentor contributes to the formation of the student in at least four significant ways in addition to the time, energy, prayer and guidance which naturally attends a mentor relationship. The mentor will:

1. Guide the student into an increasingly comprehensive experience of ministry practice.
2. Encourage the student to maintain the demanding practice of study which informs ministry-in-action.
3. Point the student toward the reality of a fuller life in journey with Christ and the people of God.
4. Model ministry for the student: biblical preaching, teaching, pastoral care, theological reflection, evangelism, missions, Christian education and conflict resolution among other ministry skills. The mentor demonstrates the integration of knowledge and experience, theory and practice, being and doing, and faith and work.