The aim of this holistic, nine-month program is to equip a diverse cohort of proven and promising leaders with leadership skills that will ensure long-term effective ministry, spiritual depth and personal integrity.

Beginning with a retreat in September and culminating in May, participants gather for two or three weekdays during one week each month. The program includes classes, small peer group experiences and individual reflection supported by a relationship with a spiritual coach for students, provided by the program. The program draws together leaders from a gamut of faith community, nonprofit, social service and para-church organizational settings.
 

STML 509 Envisioning Leadership 
STML 510 Effective Teams in Ministry
STML 511 Healthy Systems in Ministry
STML 512 Leading From Spiritual Depth
STML 513 Sustaining Pastoral Excellence 
STML 514 Companions in Leadership
STML 515 Cross-Cultural Leadership

CREDITS REQUIRED......................................... 15

Areas Addressed

How to Start a Faith Community
Spiritual Leadership
Missional Leadership
Change Management and Navigation
Conflict Negotiation
Cultural Competency in Ecumenical & Interreligious Settings
Theological Reflection in Diverse Peer Groups
Team Dynamic Training
Congregational Health Training
Prayer Models
Lifelong Learning Strategies

What Our Recent Graduates Are Saying

“I feel a profound need to engage in continuingly challenging conversations about the future and the journey of the church in this time of cultural, political, economic and spiritual search."

 “This certificate program was exactly what I needed for the next step in my life and leadership. One significant thing I learned was that I cannot change others, I can only change myself. In order to do this I need to know and be honest with myself. In order to do this I need to know and be honest with myself. This program has far exceeded my expectations."

“The Pastoral Leadership Certificate program has given me helpful tools for growth. I've appreciated the opportunity to gather, share and learn from other leaders in an open, non-competitive environment. Through the program I have learned to 'create a safe space' for difficult questions to be raised and discussed."

“In beginning this program, I expected to improve my ability to lead and support my parish community. I hoped to take back skills for others to use what I have learned. My expectations were exceeded beyond anything I could have dreamed of. I was stretched, pulled, and challenged. I am a better leader and advisor for having invested in this certificate program."

"The chance to engage with my peers in a year-long process about what it means to be an ordained leader in today's church calls to me like water to a person long in a desert."   

How to Apply   

1.  
   Apply Online 
   Click here to apply online. Along with your online application and official transcripts, you must also submit the following:
   a. Letter of Recommendation:  Submit one letter of recommendation from your endorsing official. Letter may arrive separate from application. 
   b. Personal Essay:  A brief essay is required to provide information about your personal goals in completing the program 
   c. Ministry Statement    
    
2.  
   Admissions Interview
   Upon review of the application material, the applicant will be contacted for an interview with the Director of the Pastoral Leadership Program. A meeting with the director is scheduled for the applicant to share his or her goals related to attending the program and to learn more clearly the goals, expectations and requirements of the program. Early application is encouraged due to limited space.
    

We would love to hear from you!
Colette Casavant, Student Community and Admissions Coordinator
(206) 296-5333 |  casavant@seattleu.edu