Grebel’s Master of Theological Studies program offers three streams: coursework, thesis, or applied studies. The coursework option provides students with a broad understanding of theological disciplines, while students preparing for advanced degree studies often take the more research-based thesis option. The applied studies option integrates academic study with practical internships, aimed at students involved in or preparing for the practice of ministry. In addition to coursework, this option includes two Supervised Experience in Ministry (SEM) placements and a capstone integrative project.
In SEM, students are placed in churches, soup kitchens, hospitals, universities, organizations for those with disabilities, mission agencies, and in other ministry settings. Placements may be local, national, or international, and may be intensive or spaced out. Someone in the organization supervises the student as they work 10 hours a week for 14 weeks. Over the course of the placement, the student sets learning goals with their supervisor, must read at least 500 pages of appropriate material, and write a reflective essay.
Grebel’s third president, Ralph Lebold, pioneered the SEM program in the 1980s, investing much effort in training leaders for the church. This cooperative project benefits all parties and results in stronger, more qualified leaders serving church and society.
Carol Penner, Assistant Professor of Theological Studies and Coordinator of Applied Studies, encourages students to use their SEM as a chance to try new things and explore other areas of ministry outside the student’s comfort zone. “You can be called to ministry, but what area of ministry is right for you? The SEM provides an opportunity to test a calling and test skills learned in the classroom,” she said. And SEM is not just for young people looking for work experience. “This program is perfect for those seeking a second career or post-retirement career change, wishing to try out ministry ideas. Seasoned participants are valued because they bring skills from earlier workplaces, as well as life experiences.”
MTS student Erin Huber is almost finished her MTS degree. Her first SEM placement was at 541 Eatery & Exchange, a Hamilton cafe and exchange that addresses the needs of the local community in tangible ways through the love of Jesus Christ. She spent much of her time engaging with the local community by getting to know people and their stories, praying intentionally, and providing opportunities for care and compassion in the lives of others.
At her second SEM placement, Erin had the opportunity to explore many avenues in the realm of disability, faith, and community at Christian Horizons. This organization empowers individuals with exceptional needs, assisting them to embrace their God-given qualities in a community.
Supervised by the Director of Organizational and Spiritual Life, Christian Horizons enabled Erin to explore her interests in theology and disability and in turn be better equipped to engage theologically with this population. “I was able to build relationships and provide spiritual and pastoral care to members of the Christian Horizons community, be involved with the ministry of inclusive and accessible churches, and broaden my scope of understanding of curriculum, teachings, and conferences on theology and disability.”
“Shadowing a minister is a lot different than reading about it,” noted Carol. Students come away from their placements with refined interpersonal skills, a self-awareness of their skills and gifts and feelings, the ability to self-assess, and techniques only learned through hands-on experience.
Students want practical experiences built into their education. With a strong university-wide push for experiential learning, UWaterloo emphasizes intentional and reflective learning. These on-site experiences are later reflected in classrooms and later in the workplace. “How I understand and think theologically has helped me to join the practical with the academic,” reflected Erin. “In my SEM, I was challenged to broaden the ways in which I look at learning and also how I take in and reflect upon information. These placements exposed me to a world that dared me to think differently. I don’t know exactly where my education and experiences are leading me, but a passion for belonging has been ignited in my heart.”
