The Diaconiolgy curriculum for M.Div. students is designed to introduce the students to various aspects of the ministry from a theological and a practical perspective.
For those students who aspire to become ministers in the Canadian Reformed Churches an additional program has been introduced, which is called the Pastoral Training Program (PTP). The aim of this program is to further improve the student's preparation for the ministry by giving them the opportunity to obtain practical experience in the churches. This includes a three month internship with an experienced minister.
The program is directed by the Professor of Diaconiology.
The structure is as follows:
- During the first year: a two hour session at the college with a local minister.
- After the second year: one week of ministry training with a designated minister.
- During the third year: catechetical instruction program (minimum 4 hours).
- After the third or fourth year: a three month internship with a designated minister
Evaluation of the student's performance in the program is determined by the program director in consultation with the minister/mentor.
The Pastoral Training Program is separate from the College curriculum, but the PTP is mandatory for all students aspiring the Ministry of the Word among the Canadian and American Reformed Churches (Acts of Synod 2007 Art. 78.4.10). The director of the program is Dr. A. J. de Visser.
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