PRACTICAL MINISTRY PROGRAM
DIPLOMA IN PRACTICAL MINISTRY
From transferring knowledge to holistic learning, transformative experiences, exchange of narratives, and an educational community!
The School of Theology presents a new program focused on a basic understanding of the Bible, Church leadership, and Christian life. Given the contemporary situation's challenges and rapid developments, we look holistically at the Bible, church, and society. The modules in this program are shaped towards interactive and dynamic learning in which all learning styles (see image 1.) have been considered. The outcome results in a diploma directly beneficial to church ministry and a missional lifestyle.
This program aims to equip church leaders as well as those interested in discovering the way the Bible speaks in contemporary issues. With a focus on a basic understanding of the Bible, practical tools for church leadership, and insight into care for creation (including people), it is highly transformative and relevant.
Overview of the Program
The Program of Practical Ministry consists of six modules. In the module leadership in local church major parts of leadership in the local church and Christian praxis are covered. In five parts, the student will discuss the character of a pastor, preaching, teaching, pastoring, and organizing a church. In the rest of the program the student will expand her knowledge and insights of the Bible, Christianity in The Story of the old testament,The Story of the New Testament and the story of Christianity. Care for both people and creation through the courses Care for the World and Care for the Church. The six modules together lead to the Diploma in Practical Ministry.
The Results
The diploma is accredited by the International Council of Higher Education (see: www.ichenetwork.org). If desired*, the diploma can be used as a stepping stone into the academic program (https://www.foundation.eu.com/academictheology). In that case, the student needs to do additional assignments to earn 5 ECs per module (European Credits). To enter the academic program, 30 ECs are required.
* The student can indicate this when registering
Entrance requirements:
All who have finished high school or grade 12 can apply. Access to the internet and the possibility to use a computer or laptop are essential as the live interactive classes are given online through Zoom meetings.
When continuing with the academic program after this one year program, the student needs to consider 1 day a week extra for studying.
Study load: 8 – 10 hours a week
The whole practical ministry program is a 1-year program, the program runs from September 9th 2026– July 7th 2027 with 40 Wednesday evenings (18.30 – 20.30 Amsterdam time) (hybrid or fully online).
Fees: The schoolfees for the 2026-2027 schoolyear are 215 euro per student .
If more students register from the same church or organisation we can offer a 25 % discount.
Spread payments are possible upon request. If the schoolfees are difficult to meet we advise to contact the program coordinator at : online.coordinator@foundation.eu.com As we may have some limited possibilities for a partial or full scholarship.
Registration: to register for the program prospective students can contact the program coordinator at; online.coordinator@foundation.eu.com
Registration will be possible until September 1st 2026.
Modules:
1. Leadership in local church; In five parts, the student will discuss the character of a pastor, preaching, teaching, pastoring, and organizing a church
· Part 1: Take Care of My People: Identity and Role of a Pastor (Christian formation, ethics)
· Part 2: Passion for Preaching (basics of hermeneutics and homiletics, esp. developing a sermon)
· Part 3: Teachings in the Church: Discipleship through the Teachings in the Early Church (Apostles Creed, Ten Commandments, and Lord’s Prayer).
· Part 4: Pastoral Care (basic tools to support the congregation in life challenges)
· Part 5: Organising the church (Discussing all elements of the church community)
2. The Story of the Old Testament: historical and contextual information of the time of the Old Testament and a short overview of the books and genres.
3. The Story of the New Testament: historical and contextual information of the time of the New Testament and a short overview of the books and genres.
4. The Story of Christianity: a broad overview of the origin and development of Christianity from the time of the New Testament on
5. Care for the World: Integral mission including ecological issues, slavery history, gender issues, etc.
6. Care for the Church: Basic pastoral principles related to interhuman relationships, mental health, and spiritual affairs.
In short:
Program in Practical Ministry by The School of Theology, Foundation Academy of Amsterdam
Modules and Length
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The Story of the Old Testament: 5 weeks (Sept, Oct)
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The Story of the New Testament: 5 weeks (oct, Nov)
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The Story of Christianity: 5 weeks (Nov, Dec)
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Care for the World: 4 weeks (Jan)
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Care for the Church: 4 weeks (Feb, Mar)
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Leadership in Local Church: 4 months (Mar-July)
Total - 40 weeks
