Aspects of emotional intelligence, profiles of ministry and leadership competencies in theological seminary education

Abstract

Training students for Christian pastoral ministry is a complex process. Ministry students are usually highly motivated and have a strong sense of calling and purpose. However some may cope relatively well with the seminary program but nevertheless be at risk of ministry derailment after leaving seminary. This research has used literature survey and empirical questionnaires to highlight some of the factors other than cognitive intelligence which may point towards future ministry problems. The hypothesis is that the interaction of leadership profile weaknesses with areas of emotional intelligence shortfall may give rise to future problems, especially if there is a problematic orientation to ministry. In Chapter Two a literature review has surveyed spiritual formation, emotional intelligence, leadership, and profiles of ministry. In Chapter Three the researcher has explored whether the use of psychological tests can strengthen the current methods of assessing students' suitability for ministry. The tests were the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory, the VISA Leadership Profile, and the Profiles of Ministry Instrument. The hypothesis, though not proven at statistical level, has raised individual pastoral and clinical issues, and highlights tools which can be used to complement the existing discernment, experience and intuition in spiritual formation. Chapter Four has presented an integrated view of the research and suggested spiritual formation interventions for students who might fall into the clergy-at-risk or leaders-at-risk categories. Programs for E I and for PoM work have been outlined. It is suggested that a deep spiritual formation program will be based on restoring the relationship of students with God as lovers of God together. As this is relationship-based work, the three tests which measure aspects of relationship provide one set of tools by which this love-relationship may be facilitated, alongside many other tools such as experience, discernment, and Biblical nurture.