Bethany Online
Ministry Studies
Enrolling Now!
5-Week Course: Introduction to Pastoral Care and Ministry
Deepen your understanding of ministry and strengthen your pastoral care skills in this immersive 5-week hybrid online course, running Jan. 12 – Feb. 13, 2026. Introduction to Pastoral Care and Ministry offers both practical experience and theological reflection—helping pastors, chaplains, and lay leaders grow in confidence, compassion, and clarity as they serve their communities.
This short-term course is a flexible, affordable way to expand your ministry toolkit and connect with others discerning a call to serve, with a course fee of $500 per participant.
This Program Will Cover:
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Developing a personal pastoral theology rooted in lived experience
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Practicing deep listening and pastoral guidance in diverse contexts
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Applying sacramental practices such as prayer, anointing, communion, and baptism
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Integrating theology, ministry, and spirituality through reflection and discussion
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Building confidence and compassion in real-world ministry situations
Date
Jan. 12 – Feb. 13, 2026
Cost
$500 per participant
Time to Complete
5 weeks
Format
Hybrid (Live Zoom sessions + Online Learning)
Designed for Busy Ministry Leaders
This 5-week hybrid course is built for pastors, chaplains, and lay leaders who want to strengthen their pastoral care skills without stepping away from their current commitments. With flexible online learning and live Zoom sessions, you can grow your ministry practice on your own schedule while staying connected to your congregation or community.
Community and Connection
Bethany Online provides a supportive, faith-centered learning environment where you’ll engage with experienced instructors and peers who share your passion for ministry. Through discussion, reflection, and mentorship, you’ll form meaningful connections that continue beyond the course.
Globally Accessible
Whether you’re serving in a church, hospital, or community organization, you can participate fully from wherever you are. Bethany Online’s hybrid platform brings high-quality theological learning to your screen, combining flexibility with the personal engagement that defines Bethany Online.
FAQ – Introduction to Pastoral Care and Ministry
How flexible is this course?
This 5-week hybrid course combines live Zoom sessions with online learning, allowing you to engage at times that work for you. With only 8 hours per week, you can balance your ministry, work, or personal commitments while still gaining meaningful skills and hands-on practice.
How long does it take to complete the course?
The couse takes just five weeks.
What are the course materials?
Participants will need the following texts (print or digital):
- Benner, Strategic Pastoral Counseling (2nd ed., 2003) — ISBN 9780801026317
- Dykstra (ed.), Images of Pastoral Care (2005) — ISBN 9780827216242
- Nouwen, In the Name of Jesus (1992) — ISBN 9780824512590
What are the course requirements?
- Weekly online discussion forums (2 posts per week)
- Weekly written reflections (2–4 pages each)
- Attendance at scheduled live Zoom sessions
What will I gain from this course?
- Confidence in a range of ministry contexts
- Practical tools for compassionate leadership
- A supportive community of peers and mentors
- Space for reflection and spiritual growth
Who is the instructor for this course?
Cletus Hull, Ph.D., Pastor, Trinity United Christian Church
Meet The Instructor
Cletus Hull, Ph.D.
Pastor, Trinity United Christian Church
Dr. Hull brings ministry experience and academic insight to his teaching. His approach blends real-world pastoral wisdom with theological reflection, creating a learning environment that is both grounded and inspiring.
Contact Our Enrollment Team
We’re available Monday through Friday to support you.
You can schedule an appointment to chat or reach out to us at erica.thayer@bethanywv.edu or 304.830.3090.
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