Philosophy of Theological Education
"Formed Theologically, Act Missionally" is the educational philosophy of CCST Vancouver. Christ’s life is concretely theological. At the age of 12, he was committed to his Father’s affairs and entered into debate with the teachers at the Temple. The life of the disciples are formed during their walk with Jesus, and they afterwards continued to bear faithful witness on earth for the Lord. To be formed theologically means also to act missionally, to serve God, the Church, and people in the world. At CCST Vancouver, we join in this same path to extend the Kingdom.
Holistic Formation
We shape the heart, mind, and character of each student so they are equipped to live out their calling with faith, integrity, and resilience.
Expanding Theological Horizons
Theological inquiry will serve as the cornerstone of all CCST Vancouver programs. Theology, as the intellectual foundation of faith, invites us to embrace the wisdom God has granted, grounded in Scripture and the tradition of the church throughout the ages, to engage in deep reflection, discovery, and expansion.
Integrating Ministry and Theological Reflection
Thinking theologically for ministry is a core component of all our programs. The rigorous methodology employed in these courses inspire students to respond effectively to the challenges of diverse ministry contexts. The Capstone Project, required for master's degree students, is an integrative writing project that enables students to conduct an in-depth analysis in their ministry context through doing literature review and engaging in critical reflection. The purpose is to discern the critical issues regarding theology, culture, ethics and pastoral concerns, in order to propose informed strategies.
Balancing Theory and Practice
Effective church ministry requires leaders to possess a profound understanding of Scripture and theology, combined with spiritual and personal maturity necessary to lead with integrity. Both the Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies programs include internship requirements, offering students the opportunity to apply classroom learning in realistic ministry settings. Through a mentorship model within the field education units, students benefit from the wisdom and experience of senior ministry mentors.
The Immerse Hybrid Learning
Our immerse hybrid courses are designed to ensure that students' theological education is firmly rooted in the faith and ministry communities they live and serve. Through flexible learning modalities, students can balance their professional responsibilities with their academic pursuits, and those already engaged in ministry can continue their education seamlessly. Students residing in other regions of Canada or across the globe who are unable to attend in person in Vancouver can also enroll in these programs. Students must commit themselves to a local ministry internship to fulfill their field education requirements and secure a local pastor who will commit to be their mentor through the program. All immerse hybrid courses include mandatory in-person retreats and intensive learning sessions in Vancouver, offering students from various regions and learning modalities the opportunity to connect and cultivate a vibrant community life together.
Community Life
A strong sense of community and close student-faculty relationships are defining characteristics of CCST Vancouver. Students, whether participating in person or through immersive hybrid program, are assigned to care groups where they can build meaningful relationships and support one another. The weekly worship services held, whether to take part in-person or in hybrid mode, will foster communal life of worship and ministries.
