Marc Potvin, Director of Field Education MST

Throughout history, the demands of pastoral ministry leadership have changed. This is understandable as the needs of the world constantly change. This means the way future ministry leaders are prepared also changes.

This past academic year, the Field Education Programme of MST received a “face-lift.” The core—20 hours per week in a ministry placement, along with written and group theological reflection—remained unchanged.

New this year was a seminar component, featuring sessions on practical topics led by experienced ministers, such as “How does one get to know a congregation?” “What to expect when starting out?” “How does one deal with difficult people?” And, “Ministry to people with dementia.”

In addition to these seminars, there were also day long visits or workshops on Thursdays. Non-traditional ministries were visited to think about how the church can connect with the world in different ways. Students visited two rural parishes to reflect on the unique challenges and joys of such settings. Workshops were organised in inter-generational ministries, ministry in times of death, pastoral boundaries, and mental health first aid.

The aim of the Field Education seminars was to give students more practical tools in their ministry toolbox and to have a chance to dialogue with ministry practitioners in person.

In the words of some students, “I think we did justice to most parts of experiences in ministry.” “The Thursday teaching sessions were really excellent. The intergenerational session changed how I think about worship and building community.” “Tous les sujets abordés me seront d’une grande utilité pour mon futur ministère.”

Although there will certainly be some changes made to the content and topics of the seminars, one can consider this first iteration a success.