New Hope International
Program Path 01

Pastoral Path

A discipleship and ministry training program you can complete online from Japan, with a supervised season of hands-on ministry at New Hope Church in Eugene.

Open Bible, journal, and warm mug on a wooden desk in morning light
How it flows

Two phases, one journey.

Phase 1
Online training · 2 years

Build biblical, theological, and pastoral foundations plus ministry English — through cohorts, mentoring, and short assignments.

Phase 2
Eugene intensive · 3 months

Put your learning into practice in a real church community, with housing at Kingdom Collective and a supervised weekly rhythm.

The curriculum

A gentle, layered two years.

Four semesters (or eight quarters) build on one another — Scripture, then theology and formation, then pastoral skills, then leadership.

Year 1 · Foundations
  • Semester 1 — Biblical Foundations

    Old and New Testament survey, God's story and mission, and the basics of reading Scripture well.

  • Semester 2 — Theology & Spiritual Formation

    Core doctrines and spiritual disciplines: prayer, Sabbath, journaling, and life with the Spirit.

Year 2 · Pastoral Skills & Leadership
  • Semester 3 — Pastoral Ministry Skills

    Preaching and teaching, pastoral care, ethics, and case studies with feedback.

  • Semester 4 — Leadership, Mission & Context

    Leading teams and volunteers, evangelism, cross-cultural ministry, and a personal ministry plan.

Continuous threads
  • English for Ministry — praying, preaching, and writing devotionals in English.
  • Monthly mentor calls with a New Hope pastor.
  • Personal growth goals and gentle accountability.
Credential

NHI Pastoral License

At the completion of the program, you will be eligible to receive an NHI Pastoral License — a recognized pathway from “interest in ministry” to commissioning, with no formal degree required.

  • 01Complete all core online modules and assignments.
  • 02Finish the three-month intensive with practicum hours in worship, small groups, outreach, and pastoral care.
  • 03Submit and defend a Capstone Ministry Project for your home context.
  • 04Receive affirmation from the NHI leadership team — final interview, prayer, and commissioning.

Ready to take the next step?

We'd love to hear where God is leading you.

Start your application