Pastoral Ministries

Have you sensed a call to ministry?

God’s call to pastoral ministry is a wonderful thing! It provides many opportunities to explore the Scriptures, to interact with people, and to participate in the important events of people’s lives such as birth, baptism, graduation, marriage, vocational choice, anniversaries, and celebrations. It is a glorious, rewarding calling!

How can you know if your are being called?

God’s call to ministry often involves an inner restlessness with the status quo and a desire to do something significant for God. It also often involves an outer word of affirmation or encouragement from someone who sees within you the potential for pastoral ministry. We will be your servant seeking to discern your call and what is best for you.

What training might you need?

If you are a mature student with life experience for whom four years of college and three years of seminary are not feasible, the Pastoral Ministries Program may be your best option. The PM program is a concentrated, two-year, undergraduate program that leads to an Associate degree in Pastoral Ministry. A high school diploma or GED and a desire to learn from a Christ-centered, discipleship perspective is required for admission.

What makes the program unique?

Spiritual direction, formation seminars, and personal relationships are at the center of the Hesston Pastoral Ministries Program. Instructors are former pastors who believe that people learn how to minister by being ministered to. As they teach Bible, theology and practical courses, they help to discern your call, needs, and gifts.

What will it cost?

Scholarships, grants and congregational aid make it possible for some students to study tuition free. Living expenses may be met through part-time jobs, spousal employment, or low-interest loans. Upon receiving an application, the financial aid office determines options for federal loans and financial assistance. If there is a call, there will be a way!

What employment options are available after graduation?

More than 115 graduates of the Pastoral Ministries Program are serving in 20 states and 3 countries. They serve as lead, associate, and youth pastors in local churches or as missionaries, chaplains, and assistants in the wider world. One hundred thirty Mennonite congregations are looking for part-time or full-time pastors.

What courses are required?

Seven general education courses including speech, college writing, social science, natural science and a course in the humanities are required. These lead toward a liberal arts degree and are transferable to other colleges. Seven courses in Bible and theology including Introduction to Biblical Literature, Bible genre courses, Introduction to Theology, Anabaptist history and peacemaking and justice provide a solid foundation for preaching and teaching. Six practical courses including worship, preaching, teaching, pastoral care and leadership, evangelism, and prayer prepare students for ministry. Four formation seminars, a Supervised Ministry Experience in a local church, and a Clinical Pastoral Educational Program at Wesley Medical Center provide opportunity to practice what is being learned.

Is distance education a possibility?

For those who are not able to participate in the rich, relational residence program, distance education options are available. These include taking courses at a local college, arranging for apprentice studies, and doing six two-week intensives on the Hesston campus. We will seek to put together a program that works for you.

What is available for families?

Spouses are involved in Formation Seminars and may audit classes free. Families are included in monthly socials and special retreats. Rooms, apartments, and homes are available for rent at affordable rates. The Hesston public school system and medical services are high in quality. Five churches provide excellent options for spiritual nurture and care.

Pastoral Ministries represents a unique blend of piety, Anabaptist theology, and the Hesston relational experience. We strive to help students: