The theology department identifies its purpose in terms of Concordia’s statement of purpose, especially the following statements with spiritual focus:

“The total program is centered in the Christian philosophy with a confessional Lutheran emphasis…. Concordia University seeks to develop mature Christians in whom knowledge and understanding of the Holy Scriptures, the inspired, inerrant Word of God and the source and norm of Christian truth, are united with personal faith in Jesus as God and Savior. Concordia’s spiritual resources are directed to the development of Christian faith and practice of Christian virtues so that the student can form value judgments and arrive at ethical principles required for purposeful living. Concordia’s programs … nurture religious commitment, provide insights for Christian action in the world, and … provide an opportunity for intelligent selection of vocations for service to God, church and society…. Concordia … is interested in exerting a Christian influence on the community, nation, and world.” (Departmental Statement of Purpose, August 30, 2002)

The Director of Church Ministries (DCM) program equips men and women to serve as a Director of Church Ministries (DCM) in congregations where the church worker solicits, trains and deploys lay people within the congregation to serve in a variety of service capacities. The Director of Church Ministries Program requires a theology major and two minors; the first a minor in church ministries and the second a minor in non-profit management. Within the church ministries minor the student chooses to specialize in one out of five possible ministry areas: evangelism, missions, parish teaching, youth ministry, and pre-deaconess/social ministry (for women who intend to enroll in the deaconess programs at either of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod seminaries). By careful use of electives students can add a second specialization.

Because of the nature of this work all Director of Church Ministries students must demonstrate good human relations skills and a life of Christian example. Graduates may be solemnly called to positions in congregations or recognized service organizations of the church, and may be eligible to be rostered in The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod with the designation “Minister of Religion Commissioned – Director of Church Ministries (DCM).” Concordia University Wisconsin is the only synod school at which this program is offered. Application involves steps in addition to application to the university. 

Program Learning Outcomes

• Students will recognize the Bible as the authoritative source for knowledge of God and humankind, articulate key doctrines of the Christian faith, especially the gospel of Jesus Christ, and apply the teachings of Scripture to the life of the individual.
• Students will observe, assess, and interpret today’s cultures and world views. Students will be familiar with various methods of delivering and defending biblical truth in a relevant and practical way to diverse groups.
• Students will demonstrate an understanding of research skills in the discipline. 

Curriculum 

This major/minor is not permitted to share (overlap) any credits with the core curriculum, with a major, with a minor, or with a certificate per departmental policy unless otherwise specified in the curriculum. 

Church Ministries Minor Requirements

Note: See Theology for theology major requirements and see Business for non-profit minor requirements

Program Admission

Application involves steps in addition to application to the university. Applicants for the Director of Church Ministries Program should contact the Church Ministries office for application information. 

Course options and schedule are subject to change.