25-26 Pathways: Introduction to Pastoral Care
August 28 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
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Course Description:
An introduction to the theories of pastoral care and counseling. The course offers various theological and psychological perspectives and tools to help participants develop confidence in responding to circumstances of pastoral care and counseling in the context of parish ministry and other institutional settings. Topics include the art of listening, loss and grief, pastoral care with couples and families, and the pastoral function of worship and the sacraments.
Meet the Instructor
Dr. Joshua Morris is an ordained minister with the United Church of Christ and a Board-Certified Chaplain. He served in pediatric healthcare for 11 years, most recently as Assistant Director of Spiritual Services at Children’s Mercy Hospital. Dr. Morris has 15 years of experience as an army chaplain in the United States Army Reserve, including a deployment to Afghanistan. He has taught at Phillips Theological Seminary, Claremont School of Theology, and Saint Paul School of Theology. Dr. Morris is the author of “Moral Injury Among Returning Veterans” and numerous peer-reviewed articles. He speaks nationally and internationally on moral injury, reintegration, and spiritual care. Passionate about cultivating compassionate ministers, he integrates theory and practice to promote love for God and humanity.
Dates: Thursdays, 7-9pm. August 28 – October 2, 2025
Registration closes 2 days before the first class meeting on August 26, 2025.
Offered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary
If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee, please contact Deborah Keyes, subject line “PWIPC : Financial Aid”.
UPSem faculty, staff, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty, staff, or student, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
