LTSP offers two tracks for the TEEM Program.  The Degree Track is for those who already hold a bachelors degree, and leads to a Master of Divinity degree. The Certificate Track is for those who meet the criteria for admission into the TEEM Program but do not yet hold a bachelors degree.

In either track, the Theological Review Panel’s evaluation of a candidate’s competency for ordained ministry includes assessment of an understanding of Lutheran identity as witnessed within the candidate’s context, as well as an ability to integrate the basic competencies necessary for ordained service in the ELCA.  Those include:

• Biblical knowledge and understanding
• Basic understanding of theology/ethics
• Knowledge of Christianity in the United States
• Ability to understand and communicate the teachings of the Lutheran Church
• Evangelism/Stewardship/Worship
• Pastoral Care skills
• Knowledge of ELCA church polity and ecclesiology

The primary emphasis of the program will be to integrate theological education and pastoral formation in order to build a solid foundation for ministry in a missional context.

While designed with TEEM candidates in mind, enrollment in the program is open to anyone interested in theological education.

The structure and design of this program facilitates studying part-time while maintaining full-time employment either in the church or society.  The program offers CD-ROM based instruction, supplemented by internet-based discussion forms and/or assistance provided by a mentor who meets with candidates on a regular basis.  

In addition to the initial Formation Event/Prolog at the seminary, TEEM students will enroll in eight semester-long courses (two per semester) and will attend six weekend intensive seminars at the seminary.

Qualified candidates may also take certain M.Div. courses with the approval of the instructor either at the seminary or online.  Students who successfully complete the program will be awarded an LTSP Certificate in Theological Studies (TEEM).  In consultation with the student’s synod, the seminary will arrange for CPE or an equivalent Clinical Practicum.  Internship or “Residency” will be arranged by the synod in consultation with LTSP’s director of contextual education.

Year 1

August:    Formation Event/Prologue
(This is a 7-day event over two weeks that provides an introduction to theological studies, pastoral ministry, context and cultures.  The event is scheduled together with all incoming M.Div./MAR students at LTSP)

Fall:

• Understanding the Old Testament (CDROM, Internet, or assisted by a mentor)
• Understanding the New Testament (CDROM, Internet, or assisted by a mentor)

January: 

• Seminar on Worship and Sacraments in the Church (3 day event on campus)

Spring:

• Interpreting the Prophets (CDROM, Internet or assisted by a mentor)
• History of the Christian Church (CDROM, Internet or assisted by a mentor)

Summer:

• Seminar on Essentials of Lutheranism and Confessions (Summer intensive-4 days on campus)

Year 2

Fall: 

• Interpreting the Gospels (CDROM, Internet or assisted by a mentor)
• Theology for Mission and Ministry (CDROM, Internet, or assisted by a mentor)

January:

• Seminar on Pastoral Care in the Church (4 day event on campus)

Spring:  

• Interpreting the Epistles (CDROM, Internet, or assisted by a mentor)
  Education in Congregation (CDROM, Internet or assisted by a mentor)

Summer:    

• Seminar on Preaching the Word (4 day event on campus)

Year 3

Fall:    

• Seminar on Evangelism in a World of Pluralism (4 day event in October)
• Seminar on Ministerial Leadership (Stewardship and administration—4 day event)

Spring:

• CPE or Clinical Practicum (hospital, community or social ministry based options).

Internship

As determined by the Candidacy Committee of the sponsoring synod

For more information contact TEEM at
The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia 
•  TEEM@Ltsp.edu  •  215-248-6378  •  on the Web:  www.Ltsp.edu/teem  •