BETHANY ADDS OUTDOOR MINISTRY MAJOR

Bethany College has added a concentration in Outdoor Ministry as a part of its Christian Ministry major which will prepare students for camp and retreat ministries.

            “The program directly challenges students to learn how to intellectually, morally and spiritually commit to at life of service within the context of the Christian faith,” said David Norlin, associate professor of social work and the major coordinator. “In particular, camping ministries vitalize youth and propel their involvement in the church.

            “A high percentage of pastors report that a significant camping experience was part of a pastor’s discerning a call to service,” he said.

            Students concentrating in Outdoor Christian Ministries will take courses in a wide variety of areas, including religion, social work and teacher education.

            The curricula are modeled on the Evangelical Church in America (ELCA) Professional Standards Program for Outdoor Ministries. Bethany is a college of the ELCA.