Course Description: This is an introductory course in the life and work of ministry. It is designed to acquaint the student with foundational issues in pastoral care, as well as expose them to the biblical, theological, and psychological bases for contemporary pastoral care. Exercises for the development of self awareness and professional skills necessary for pastoral care will be included. The first part of the course is a process of self-examination. Self-understanding is essential if the shepherd is to understand and care for the sheep. The second half of the course is intended to help the student understand the dynamics of crisis and grief and apply that to a ministry situation. As always, the purpose of the Ordination Courses is to put practical, usable tools in the hands of local leaders, that can be used in their own ministry context.