Pastoral Studies Program
Ordination in the LCANZ
ALC is entrusted with the task of preparing candidates for the pastoral ministry (GMP), however it is the Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand (LCANZ) who is ultimately responsible for the decision to ordain a candidate who has completed the Pastoral Studies Program. The LCANZ and ALC journey together with potential candidates as they move through the stages of the program.
Program Overview
The Pastoral Studies Program generally involves the equivalent of four full-time years of theological study and formation. This includes:
- an academic program
- local fieldwork
- periodic formational reviews
- self, peer and mentor reflection
- online ALC community worship
- a final supervised pastoral ministry placement
The Pastoral Studies Program is delivered using a combination of synchronous, online classes and face-to-face intensives. This means students can engage in the program from home. There is no need to relocate to Adelaide. Financial support is available to domestic students to facilitate attendance at intensives.
Pastoral Studies Program stage 1 - Discover
The first requirement of the Pastoral Studies Program is to complete Discover. Discover has been developed to assist potential candidates and others to discern God’s call. This combines academic study, practical ministry and personal reflection in congregational setting. Participants will compile a portfolio of evidence which is presented to the relevant district bishop and becomes part of the process for proceeding to stage 2 of the program.
Pastoral Studies Program stage 2
For potential candidates, completion of Discover triggers a formal application and approval process for official entry into the Pastoral Studies Program. In addition to consultation with relevant district bishop, this includes a psychological assessment and other church-based processes.
While they are engaged in the application and approval process, participants continue with academic, fieldwork and formation activities. They will continue to gather evidence which demonstrates their progress towards achieving the Pastoral Graduate Outcomes (PGOs).
Note that completion of the academic award is not dependent on being accepted into the Pastoral Studies Program.
Pastoral Studies Program stage 3
The final stage of the program focusses on completing the academic award and advanced contextual learning and evaluation of readiness for ministry. This stage usually includes a significant supervised pastoral ministry placement which may be a traditional vicarage or a tailored, alternative form of supervised ministry.
Readiness for ministry is evaluated with reference to the PGOs and other church requirements including a second psychological assessment, reports from the placement supervisor and other relevant information.
At the conclusion of stage 3 ALC makes a recommendation to the LCANZ about the potential candidate's readiness for ministry.
If you would like further information about any aspect of the Pastoral Studies Program submit an enquiry here.
