Pastoral Ministry

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Pastoral Ministry has been approved by the Course of Study Advisory Committee to meet the education requirements for ordination as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene, and is ideal for those students called to pursue full-time ministry in the church, or those choosing to pursue continued studies beyond the undergraduate.

Major

School of Theology & Christian Ministry

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Serving as a pastor is more than preaching a message on Sunday morning. Pastors are called to walk with people through their best and worst experiences — as well as encourage them to grow in their faith during routine sameness of life. Pastors are key leaders in communities, and become the role model for Christian leadership.

The rewards of pastoral ministry far outweigh the challenges. Community ministry experience and a full summer internship are part of the degree requirements. In their final year, students are assigned to a church for ministry with a staff or neighboring pastor as their mentor; take classes on campus; and complete a final project.

Preaching Ambassadors

Olivet’s Preaching Ambassador Program connects students preparing for ministry with the churches to which they are called to serve. Students gain valuable ministry experience by preparing and delivering sermons for local churches.

Learn more about Preaching Ambassadors

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Pastoral Ministry Students

  • Study cross-cultural ministry, missiological foundations, anthropology, intercultural communication, world religions.
  • Study abroad and experience the Christian faith in other cultures and countries.
  • Go on student mission trips and serve people living around the world and throughout the U.S.
  • Study Biblical hermeneutics, cross-cultural ministry, homiletics, Christian theology and pastoral care/counseling.
  • Learn from professors who once served as pastors of congregations.
  • Volunteer for a variety of jobs with area congregations to get firsthand ministry experience.
  • Serve alongside pastors as they lead worship, teach classes, mentor volunteers and respond to crises.
Student on main campus wearing pink sweater and holding water bottle.

Where Your Future Begins

We Believe. You Belong Here. Discover why Olivet is a place where faith meets calling. Take the first step today.

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