Equipped for Inclusion: Western Theological Seminary’s Graduate Certificate in Disability and Ministry

Abstract

Seminary provides a primary training ground for future church and ministry leaders. Yet substantive attention to disability has long been limited within the theological curriculum. Western Theological Seminary launched its Graduate Certificate in Disability and Ministry in 2016 as a pathway for preparing men and women called by God to recognize, appreciate, and incorporate the gifts and perspectives of people with disabilities in a variety of ministry settings. This study examines the portrait of students pursuing this certificate program, as well as their perspectives on its impact on their preparation for ministry. Findings from this program evaluation offer insights for other seminaries interested in addressing the intersection of disability and ministry in more intentional ways.

Keywords:

• Attitudes
• disability
• seminary
• theological training

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was provided by the author(s).