Covenant Seminary Launches New Chaplaincy Track in Partnership with PRCC
Covenant Seminary is pleased to announce the launch this fall of a new Chaplaincy Track as a concentration area for its Master of Divinity (MDiv) program. Offered in partnership with the Presbyterian and Reformed Commission on Chaplains and Military Personnel (PRCC), the chaplaincy endorsing body for the Presbyterian Church in America, the Chaplaincy Track is designed to equip students to serve Christ with theological and practical ministry understanding in the military or in civilian institutions.
Dr. Jim Carter, Executive Director and Ecclesiastical Endorser for PRCC, notes that “Chaplaincy is a calling that places you on the frontlines. Whether it be on the battlefield, in hospitals, corporations, prisons, sports, or other settings, you will serve in a cutting-edge ministry that is action oriented.”
Thus, the MDiv Chaplaincy Track provides courses taught by experienced chaplains and PRCC endorsers that engage specifically the calling and practice of chaplaincy. In addition to the standard MDiv curriculum, Chaplaincy Track courses include:
Introduction to Chaplaincy — Presents the theological and practical foundations of chaplaincy ministry to help students develop a biblical understanding of calling to this mission field and ministry and to become knowledgeable about the domains of chaplaincy and the skills required for faithful chaplaincy ministry.
Institutional Ministry for Chaplains — Explores what it means to make an impact in challenging mission environments like war-fighting institutions, law enforcement, or hospitals; how to develop a language and topics to facilitate evangelization in these secular environments; and how to deepen trust in God in all aspects of life as an ambassador for Christ.
Dr. Jim Carter, Executive Director and Ecclesiastical Endorser for PRCC (center), with a group of military chaplains.
The Chaplaincy Track is available in either residential or hybrid formats. The residential option offers ample opportunities to take advantage of the Seminary’s location in a region rich with churches, ministries, hospitals, and other settings in which to serve. The hybrid option can be completed without relocating to campus, but includes at least six visits to St. Louis or other cities for week-long intensive coursework. Students will complete three-fourths of their required field education hours at an approved chaplaincy site. Financial aid is available to help students in the Chaplaincy Track graduate with little or no student debt.
“Covenant has a rich history in chaplaincy, and we count it a privilege to build on this legacy and commitment to seeing the gospel make its way into these unique ministry settings,” said Rev. Charlie Dey, Associate Director of Administration for PRCC.
Rev. Dr. Thomas C. Gibbs, President of Covenant Seminary, added, “The need is great for chaplains who minister the love of Christ in military and other institutional settings. But chaplaincy has its own unique challenges and blessings, so we are excited to work with PRCC to raise up workers prepared especially for this rapidly growing mission field. We pray for the Lord’s blessing on the Chaplaincy Track and look forward to seeing how he will use graduates of this program to bring the hope and healing of the gospel to those in need.”
For more details and a complete course overview, visit the Chaplaincy Track webpage.
