Youth Ministry and ROMER Certificate

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.

This course is a detailed study of the first five books of the Bible (the Torah or Law of the Hebrew Scriptures). These books give the historical, theological, legal, and covenantal foundations for the faith of Israel, and ultimately for the Church.

This course offers an introductory study of the individual Gospels, and explores the historical backgrounds of the era. All four Gospels are studied concurrently from the standpoint of the harmonized life of Christ. Since Jesus Christ is the very center of Christianity, this study is extremely valuable to every Christian.

This course studies the Holy Spirit from three perspectives: a survey of the key Biblical texts about the Holy Spirit, the historical development of the doctrine of the Holy Spirit, and a theological exposition of significant topics, such as the Trinity, the new birth, sanctification, baptism in the Holy Spirit, and spiritual gifts. The course encourages an experiential approach to walk in the Spirit and to serve in the church and in the world by His power and giftings.

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.

Doctrine II is the second of two courses which cover a comprehensive range of Christian theology. The course continues to examine the key Systematic Theology doctrines including Christology (God the Son, Soteriology / Salvation), Pneumatology (God the Holy Spirit), Ecclesiology (The Church), and Eschatology (The Last Things or end time events). 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 (Prerequisite: THEO 221 or THEO 121).

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 homiletics course advances the student’s understanding and skill in sermon preparation through the critical evaluation of sermon outlines and preaching under supervision. Lab period required. RELS 241 Youth Communication or equivalent course is a recommended prerequisite for taking 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.

This course examines the biblical and practical aspects of pastoral ministry. Biblical teaching and metaphors as well as contemporary paradigms of pastoral work will be explored. The pastor’s call, qualifications, relationships, and unique duties will be discussed with an emphasis on his/her mandate to equip people for ministry to the Lord, the church, and the world while ensuring appropriate self-care. Special consideration will be given to the pastoral implications of the policies of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.

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.

This course presents a survey of the beginnings of 20th century Pentecostalism in the U.S. and its subsequent worldwide spread. It focuses on the origin and growth of the Pentecostal movement in Canada, particularly as embodied in the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.