The module aims to broaden the more recent emphasis on pastoral counselling as the main focus of concern for pastoral theology and practice, to a more holistic approach that involves several dimensions of church/organisational life. An emphasis on pastoral care as spiritual formation views pastoral encounters as collaborative in nature; helping the other to negotiate particular challenges within a faith framework provides an opportunity for growth and change, both for the person helped and the helper.

The scope of this topic is wide and includes theology, historical antecedents and ways in which our ‘faith journey’ can be conceptualised. The topic includes the practice of both regular ongoing direction and retreat direction. This module will enable students to use spiritual direction as the main focus of their ministry; it will also equip those with other ministries to use the skills of spiritual direction. Students are required to undertake a 3 day self-funded retreat as part of the module.

This module is designed to equip students to effectively manage the challenge of being a religious representative in secular institutions, such as hospitals, educational establishments or the military. It aims to examine the potential of chaplaincy as a form of Christian mission, serving others by providing support and spiritual guidance in a variety of contexts. This includes critical reflection on working with people of other faiths or no faith. The module will enable students to develop a philosophy of chaplaincy consistent with their personal strengths, training and the particular context in which they currently operate, or might do so in the future.