Pastoral Studies
Central to our Division of Theology is the Pastoral Studies Program, which prepares students for the pastoral ministry. We offer a course of study that provides a broad yet solid liberal arts foundation for seminary-level studies. As part of this program, students will study the original biblical languages, as well as a variety of courses in Bible and Christian theology. But beyond that, we put a strong emphasis on bridging the gap between theology and secular fields of study, so that our students relate their faith effectively to the contemporary world in which they will serve. There is a lot of room in the curriculum for elective courses, so that they can study more deeply in other areas of interest along with theology.
Beyond the curriculum, our pastoral studies students are actively involved in campus life, as well as in a local church family. Each student has an area pastor as "mentor," with whom he can relate to explore the actual "job" of pastoral ministry in an ongoing fashion. They will have opportunities to serve and lead in various aspects of parish work. And since Concordia has a significant percentage of students who are not churched and not Christian - including a group of international students with very little understanding of Christianity, they'll have constant opportunities to witness their faith as part of daily student life.
Through Concordia Portland's program, our students prepare well for seminary level studies and for eventual entry into the pastoral ministry. They receive a solid academic and liberal arts basis - but more than this, they are nurtured in having a heart for and focus on Christ's mission in our society and world.