Session 1: Orientation and Introduction to Pastoral Formation

• Overview of the course objectives and structure

• Sharing personal goals and expectations for the course

• Introduction to the importance of pastoral formation and lifelong learning

Session 2: Understanding Spiritual Care

• Exploring the biblical basis for spiritual care and pastoral ministry

• Understanding the role of spirituality in mental health and well-being

• Practical tips for providing spiritual care to oneself and others

• Introduction to spiritual disciplines and their significance in pastoral formation

Session 3: Personal Disciplines for Pastoral Growth

• Discussion on the importance of personal disciplines in maintaining spiritual health

• Exploring various spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and scripture reading

• Practical exercises to incorporate personal disciplines into daily life

• Sharing personal experiences and challenges in implementing spiritual disciplines

Session 4: The Value of Coaching in Ministry

• Introduction to coaching principles and their relevance in pastoral ministry

• Understanding the difference between coaching, mentoring, and counseling

• Exploring the benefits of having a coach or being a coach in pastoral development

• Practical exercises in coaching techniques and active listening skills

Session 5: Becoming Trauma-Informed Pastors

• Understanding the impact of trauma on individuals and communities

• Exploring trauma-informed care principles in pastoral ministry

• Recognizing signs of trauma and responding with empathy and sensitivity

• Practical strategies for creating safe spaces and supporting trauma survivors

Session 6: Cultivating Resilience and Self-Care

• Discussing the challenges and stresses of pastoral ministry

• Exploring strategies for self-care and preventing burnout

• Identifying personal and professional boundaries in ministry

• Developing a resilience plan for managing stress and adversity

Session 7: Nurturing Healthy Community

• Understanding the importance of community in pastoral formation

• Exploring different models of community and fellowship

• Discussing strategies for building and sustaining healthy relationships within and outside the church

• Practical exercises in fostering community and accountability among participants

Session 8: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

• Exploring the biblical call to diversity and inclusion in ministry

• Understanding privilege, power dynamics, and systemic barriers in pastoral contexts

• Discussing strategies for creating inclusive and welcoming spaces for all people

• Reflecting on personal biases and committing to ongoing growth in cultural competency

Session 9: Leadership Development for Pastors

• Discussing the unique challenges and responsibilities of pastoral leadership

• Exploring different leadership styles and approaches

• Identifying personal strengths and areas for growth in pastoral leadership

• Practical exercises in vision casting, team building, and conflict resolution

Session 10: Effective Communication in Ministry

• Exploring the importance of effective communication in pastoral contexts

• Discussing strategies for preaching, teaching, and interpersonal communication

• Practicing active listening and empathetic communication skills

• Reflecting on the role of communication in building relationships and fostering understanding

Session 11: Engaging with Scripture and Theology

• Discussing the role of scripture and theology in pastoral formation

• Exploring different approaches to studying and interpreting scripture

• Reflecting on theological principles and their implications for ministry

• Engaging in theological dialogue and reflection on contemporary issues

Session 12: Reflecting on the Journey and Commissioning

• Reviewing key learnings and insights from the course

• Reflecting on personal growth and transformation throughout the six months

• Celebrating achievements and milestones in pastoral formation

• Commissioning ceremony to affirm participants' call to pastoral ministry

• Prayer of blessing and sending forth into continued ministry and service