Both Gregory Naziansus and Pope Gregory I saluted pastoral ministry as “the art of arts”. And for good reason. Ministers and students of theology make an immediate impact on the lives of their Christian community. Academic reflection and competency in theology crave to be integrated with the practical skills that make the traditions of the Church a resource to one’s community and one’s own life. Pastoral Studies are a crucial aspect to study, as the minister learns the art of helping people move through profound life changes, such as grief and loss, marriage and love, birth and rebirth.

Pastoral Studies include practice in pastoral care, spiritual direction, religious education, social ministry, and pastoral administration. Students learn how to engage the contributions of other areas of theology and integrate them into caring, ethical practice. Indeed, one can think of Pastoral Studies as theology in action, interpreted and lived in real life.

Courses such as Pastoral Care and Counseling and practica in professional ministry and spiritual direction provide concrete skills and ministerial competence. Such courses not only help develop the minister’s resources and gifts, but also aid those in other professions who utilize ministerial tools in their own vocation.