Youth Ministry Certificate

This course provides an overview of the background, content, and message of the Bible. It includes brief summaries of the substance, structure, and key themes of individual books within their broader Biblical sections. The purpose of the course is to give a general, introductory understanding and knowledge of the Bible that is foundational to other Biblical courses.

Hermeneutics is the science and art of Biblical interpretation. This course provides a threefold, integrated approach to Biblical interpretation, namely, 1) the background to the Biblical world, 2) the literature and genre of the Bible, and 3) the self-understanding of the interpreter.

Doctrine I is the first of two courses which cover a comprehensive range of Christian theology. The study of Systematic Theology begins with theological prolegomena to introduce appropriate theological method and disciplines. It explores the doctrines of Scripture (Bibliology: revelation, inspiration, canonicity, inerrancy, authority, canon), theology proper (God, Trinity, creation, providence), and anthropology (man, the “fall,” sin, angels). Lessons will be based on the exegesis of Scripture, with reference to historical theological development. The Bible is considered as the ultimate authority in matters of doctrine, faith, and life.

This course is an initial orientation to the field of Christian education. Since Christian education is vitally related to both the ministry of the church and the life of the individual Christian it must be built upon a solid foundation. Biblical, theological, historical, sociological, philosophical, psychological and structural aspects of the educational ministry of the local church are studied. (Prerequisite to all other Christian education courses.)

Contemporary Youth Issues explores the spiritual, moral and psychological significance behind the contemporary issues that North American youth face. The goal of the course is to prepare youth workers to recognize and to learn how to respond wisely. It covers basic practical theology skills that enable the student to research the issues from a secular and biblical viewpoint in order to provide the necessary guidance for adolescents on their journey in following Jesus.

This course is a detailed study of the technical aspects of oral communication. It seeks to equip the student with specific knowledge, skills, and practice in the preparation and presentation of messages. The SCORRE method of preparation will be foundational in this process. Students also learn about the distinctives of speaking and preaching to contemporary North American youth. Opportunity is given for one general oral presentation and two specific preaching presentations. This course is a prerequisite for RELS 234 Preaching.

This course studies the development, characteristics, special needs and aspirations of adolescents. It places special emphasis on the physical, social, emotional, moral and spiritual maturation of youth. It also discusses the principles involved in assisting youth to develop maturity in these areas.

Drawing from Biblical, theological, and social science sources, this course seeks to construct a theology of leadership development that will result in ministry being returned to the people of God. A primary focus of the course will be how individuals can be equipped and mobilized to build a vital faith community through small groups. Various approaches to small groups will be explored, including Bible studies, accountability groups, support groups, ministry teams and house churches. Issues of group life such as leadership recruitment and coaching, curriculum development, life cycles, problem people, multiplication, organizational structure and evaluation will be covered.

This course focuses on the practical administrative and organizational aspects of leadership in a local youth ministry. It is designed especially for students seeking ministerial credentials with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada; however, students seeking credentials with other groups will be accommodated. Topics such as vision casting, strategic planning, leadership and policy development, plan to protect, event planning, and budgeting will be explored.

This course is designed to integrate the student’s knowledge and skill of youth ministry into a study of vocational youth work. It surveys a variety of youth ministry philosophies, strategies and programs suitable for both church and para-church ministries. The student will consider the role and function of the youth leader within contemporary youth culture. The student will be challenged to develop a youth ministry plan in correlation to their personal philosophy of youth ministry.