Background

Hancock can be a valuable and exciting experience for seminarians. A lot is expected from seminarians, but a lot of help is given too. Seminarians quickly become part of the larger Hancock family. Seminarians participate in many areas of the congregation's life: children's and youth programs, adult education, music, preaching, leading worship, television ministry, pastoral care and social action. They have traditionally been involved in weekend retreats and in the annual mission trip for our youth. Attendance at weekly staff meetings exposes them to the coordinating and administrative challenges that must be addressed in any thriving, caring church. Seminarians are encouraged to think in terms of spending at least two years with us. Generally, at least two participate at any given time, which we view as an advantage to students who profit from the collegial experience and can trade ideas and help each other over rough spots. Those who are interested in Field Education at Hancock, should contact the office and arrange a visit with one of our clergy.

Support for Seminarians

Hancock identifies itself as a teaching parish. It welcomes the seminarians' presence, appreciates their individual gifts for ministry, celebrates their growth and depends on them as partners. Our church family is enriched by the varied backgrounds and religious histories of its members. We welcome and encourage diversity. Our structured Teaching Parish program has more than 30 years experience in training students for a variety of pastoral ministries in the modern church. The church's two ordained ministers contribute to the mentoring of seminarians, are certified supervisors and have a strong personal interest in helping seminarians understand and articulate the meaning of Trinitarian Christian witness and discipleship. The lay members of the active Teaching Parish Committee meet regularly with the seminarians in members’ home. They work closely with students and ministers to provide continuing guidance and encouragement. Both the Teaching Parish Committee and the Supervising Clergy have received recognition from the seminaries for excellence in supervision.

Field Education Learning Opportunities

Possible learning opportunities at Hancock consist of Core foundation activities which are pursued each year. These are complemented by other selected learning activities to support the student’s personal learning objectives while considering the needs of the other seminarians and Hancock Church.