Faculty of Ecumenical and Pastoral Studies

Purpose and Vision

The Seminary offers a formation pathway through the Faculty of Ecumenical and Pastoral Studies, extending theological and ministerial training to our brothers and sisters in Christ who may not share the same liturgical heritage, yet share a sincere call to serve in the vineyard of the Lord.

Rooted in the Old Catholic tradition of openness, dialogue, and charity, this faculty seeks to equip Christian leaders, pastors, and lay workers with the intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral tools needed to serve faithfully in their respective communities.

This faculty embodies the Seminary’s commitment to “Forming Hearts, Minds, and Spirits in the Light of Christ,” by fostering an environment of spiritual growth, academic excellence, and mutual respect among all who are called to minister in Christ’s name.

Academic Philosophy

Programs offered under this faculty are deeply Christ-centered, theologically balanced, and pastorally focused.
 They integrate sound biblical teaching, practical ministry formation, and spiritual development, while maintaining reverence for the ancient faith and the living movement of the Holy Spirit in the Church today.

Students are trained to become thoughtful, compassionate, and Spirit-led leaders — capable of bridging faith and action in their ministries, regardless of their Christian background.


Programs and Pathways

The Faculty of Ecumenical and Pastoral Studies offers a range of Certificate, Diploma, Undergraduate, and Graduate programs designed for active ministers, church workers, and aspiring leaders in pastoral service.


Certificate Programs

These short-term, intensive programs provide foundational and practical training in ministry.
 Ideal for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Christian service, or for church workers without prior theological education.

Offered Certificates:

Duration: 6 months
 Mode of Study: Online, On-Campus (Formation House), or Hybrid

Diploma Programs

Diploma programs provide structured, intermediate-level formation for those called to pastoral service, teaching, or church leadership.
 These programs balance academic rigor with practical training in ministry.

Offered Diplomas:

Duration: 2 years
 Mode of Study: Online, On-Campus, or Hybrid

Undergraduate Degrees

Undergraduate programs are designed for those pursuing comprehensive theological and pastoral formation.
 They lay a strong biblical, doctrinal, and ethical foundation for Christian ministry and service.

Offered Degrees:

Duration: 3 years
 Mode of Study: Online, On-Campus, or Hybrid

Graduate Programs

Graduate programs under this faculty are designed for clergy, pastors, and ministry leaders who wish to deepen their theological insight and enhance their leadership skills.
 They integrate research, reflection, and advanced ministerial application.

Offered Degrees:

Duration: 2 years
 Mode of Study: Online, On-Campus, or Hybrid

Doctoral Programs

Doctoral studies represent the highest level of ministerial and theological formation.
 They are designed for senior pastors, bishops, theologians, and ministry leaders engaged in research, spiritual formation, and leadership within the global Church.

Offered Degrees:

Duration: 3–5 years
 Mode of Study: Online, On-Campus, or Hybrid

Spiritual and Pastoral Formation

Students under this faculty participate in guided spiritual formation exercises, pastoral mentorship, and ministry projects.
 Each program includes modules in:

Faculty Distinctives

Through the Faculty of Ecumenical and Pastoral Studies, the Seminary affirms that true ministry transcends boundaries of tradition, language, and background.
 Here, men and women of faith are shaped not by titles, but by transformation — equipped to shepherd God’s people with wisdom, compassion, and humility.

“There are varieties of ministries, but the same Lord.” — 1 Corinthians 12:5

 Accelerated Formation Option

Recognizing that many of our students are already engaged in ministry or hold prior theological qualifications, Good Shepherd Seminary offers an Accelerated Formation Pathway.
 Under this model, qualified candidates may complete their chosen program in a shorter period based on prior learning, pastoral experience, or demonstrated competency.

This ensures that formation remains comprehensive yet flexible, respecting the unique journeys of those called to serve the Church while maintaining the high academic and spiritual standards for which the Seminary is known.

A Community of Learning and Faith

Beyond academics, every student at Good Shepherd Old Catholic Theological Seminary is immersed in a life of prayer, community, and service. We believe that intellectual growth and spiritual formation must walk hand in hand. Our faculty and mentors accompany students personally, guiding them in discernment, ministry preparation, and holistic Christian living.

Whether you are taking your first step into ministry or seeking advanced theological refinement, our programs will nurture your calling and strengthen your witness for Christ and His Church.

Want to hear from those who have taken our courses? Visit our Student Testimonies page to read how our programs have transformed lives and deepened faith. 

Note on Ecclesiastical Nature of Programs

All programs offered by the Good Shepherd Old Catholic Theological Seminary are ecclesiastical in nature and are designed primarily for ministry formation, theological education, and service within the Church. The Seminary’s degrees and diplomas are intended to prepare clergy and lay leaders for sacred and pastoral work, rather than for secular or state-regulated professional use. 

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About Honorary Degrees
 The Seminary, in collaboration with the Sacred Heart of Jesus Charismatic Old Catholic Church, may confer Honorary Doctoral Degrees (honoris causa) upon distinguished individuals who have demonstrated exceptional Christian leadership, theological scholarship, or outstanding service to the Church and society.

 These honorary recognitions are ecclesiastical in nature and not academic degree programs earned through coursework or research.

To learn more about eligibility, nomination procedures, and the nature of these ecclesiastical honors, please click Honorary Degrees.