Certificate In Reflective Practices

Part of ministry leadership is providing support and care for those serving others: an overworked pastor, parish minister, chaplain or deacon, etc. This program will give you the tools and competencies you need to provide such support and receive it yourself.

The certificate focuses on the field of pastoral care.

A Schedule that Fits Your Needs

Two five-day seminars are held on the Saint Meinrad campus - one in January and another the following January, with graduation in May following the second January session. For the rest of the 15-month program, you work at your convenience and arrange supervisory sessions to suit your schedule.

Program Fees

The program cost is $3,200, which includes seminar fees, housing and meals.

Graduate Credits

Students in the Certificate in Reflective Practices program have the option of earning 4 graduate credits for successfully completing the program.

By the second January meeting, credit-seeking students must submit a course registration form to the Registrar, registering for the Certificate in Supervision - Pastoral Care, for 4 credits.

There is no additional charge beyond the regular program fee. However, to earn the credits, students must complete their assignments by the regular spring semester grade submission deadline.

Program Outcomes

Students who successfully complete a certificate in reflective practices will demonstrate:

• the ability to participate actively in presentations, discussion, personal and group reflection, role play, demonstration, practice;
• effective listening and communication skills;
• an ability to reflect on and critically analyze their own and others' ministerial practice;
• knowledge of the theories, models, and tools necessary to help others improve.

Requirements

Requirements for Certificate Completion:

• Attend two five-day seminars at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology.

• Complete required reading provided for each five-day seminar.

• Receive 22 hours of supervision feedback from a trained supervisor; 10 hours will be achieved during the five-day seminars. The remaining 12 supervisory hours will be done at the participant's own ministry site. For each supervision session, the student presents a case summary with videotape.

• Complete final written project of 10 to 12 pages, plus a list of readings.

How To Apply

Applicants should meet these criteria:

• Five or more years in ministry

• Master's degree, DMin, PhD or equivalent theological degree

• Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or some equivalent is recommended

To request an application packet, please click here.