What we are learning

The kind of learning that takes place when one is immersed in the practice of ministry is indispensable to the pedagogy of ministerial preparation. This reality, in and of itself, does not necessarily lead to a negative judgment on the pedagogy that characterizes the seminary context. Rather it highlights the inherent limits (necessary and crucial, but not sufficient) of the seminary/academic context when it comes to the teaching and learning of ministry. This is not a new revelation for pastors, or denominational officials, or seminary faculty and administrators. Rather, the TiM program is providing a context for recognizing this fundamental pedagogical reality in ways that invite a new and generative collaboration between these various constituencies and stakeholders.

Immersion itself does not make for a successful transition into ministry. Immersion infused with collaboration, mentors, colleagues and friendship establishes a set of conditions, which are especially conducive to the formation of pastoral identity. Immersion isolated from this larger relational field can generate an experience of isolation within the vocation of pastoral ministry that undermines one’s confidence and competence in ministry. Our strongest programs are those where this relational field has been in place. Where it has been lacking, programs have suffered. The role of the Senior Pastor (and in some cases, the role of an Associate Pastor) is absolutely crucial to the capacity of any individual program to provide this relational field.

The TiM program creates a set of conditions that invites congregations (especially pastoral and lay leaders) to become more intentional in assuming their role of raising up a new generation of pastors. It takes time but the impact on the identity of the congregation and its connection to the wider church is substantive. For too long the connection between congregational life and pastoral formation has been cast in negative terms which are often cast from within the seminary context. The TiM program provides a unique context for pastors to learn what it means to teach not in the controlled context of the classroom but in the fluid, improvisational context of pastoral practice.

Or browse our archive by topic.