Foster spiritual formation in pastoral staffs
This programme is intended to foster spiritual formation in pastoral staffs, students will learn spiritual direction in order to become an effective spiritual companion and to serve people as a spiritual pastor. This programme is recognized by the Graduate Theological Foundation (GTF) and meets the academic requirements for Master of Pastoral Counseling and Doctor of Ministry. After assessment upon completion of the programme, students can request a recommendation for such certification.
“Through the spiritual formation and spiritual direction programme, I have learned that as pastor we need to open up and to lead according to the Holy Spirit, listen to people’s needs, work alongside the Lord, and guide them to the Lord.”
Ms Au, church pastor
Programme curriculum
1st year (January to December)
Retreat I (4 days 3 nights) – 3 credits
Introduction to Spiritual Traditions and Practices (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Emotional and Spiritual Formation (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Spiritual Formation and Growth I (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Word of God and Spiritual Formation (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Retreat I (3 days 2 nights) – 2 credits
1-on-1 Spiritual Direction (8-12 sessions) – 1 credits
2nd year (January to December)
Retreat III (4 days 3 nights) – 3 credits
Spiritual Formation and Growth II (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Introduction to Spiritual Direction (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Spiritual Direction Process I (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Spiritual Direction Process II (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Retreat IV (3 days 2 nights) – 2 credits
1-on-1 spiritual direction (8-12 sessions) – 1 credit
3rd year (January to December)
Retreat V (4 days 3 nights) – 3 credits
Spiritual Direction I: 1-on-1 and Group Supervision I (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Spiritual Direction II: 1-on-1 and Group Supervision II (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Spiritual Direction III: 1-on-1 and Group Supervision II (4 day camps, every Monday) – 3 credits
Retreat VI (4 days 3 nights) – 3 credits
1-on-1 Spiritual Direction Supervision (8-12 sessions) – 1 credit
Internship (2nd and 3rd year)
Peer and Group Spiritual Direction (8 sessions) – 1 credit
1-on-1 Spiritual Direction (40 sessions) – 6 credit
Retreat Guiding (no less than 2 days 1 night) – 1 credit
Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree or above
- Has completed recognized theological training
- Has worked in pastoral care*
- Able to read English
*Applicants who have not worked in pastoral care will be considered on a case by case basis
Overview
The tuition for the Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Formation and Spiritual Direction in 2023-25 is HKD $98,400, by yearly installments: the 1st year (2023) is HKD $32,000* ($8,000 per quarter), 2nd year (2024) is HKD $32,800 ($8,200 per quarter), 3rd year (2025) is HKD $33,600 ($8,400 per quarter).
Early registration before August 31, 2022 can receive a tuition discount on the first year. The discounted tuition will be HK$30,000.
The fees included retreat accommodations, day camp meals, 1-on-1 spiritual direction fees. To submit your application, please follow the instructions in the application form.
Starting date
January 2023
Venue
Tao Fong Shan Christian Centre
Number of students
16-24
Application fee: $400