Increasingly Christian denominations are expressing a need for trained supervisors to support those in pastoral ministry. In the face of a multiplicity of challenges: climate change, historic cases of abuse, racial injustice, issues of gender and sexuality, social care and poverty gaps, financial constraints and fewer full time clergy, the Church needs to review, prioritise and structure as never before.

The changing nature of local and lay ministry requires pastoral ministers to oversee teams and develop skills in line-management, and reflective supervision. This is in order to embody Kingdom life with all the skill, wisdom and mutual accountability necessary to honour the people and the Christ we serve. The Advanced Diploma in Pastoral Supervision is a short course, which follows on from PDPS, the Professional Diploma in Pastoral Supervision[1]. Its aim is to support and develop the practice of newly trained and practising pastoral supervisors and to prepare you for APSE[2] accreditation. This recognition will allow you to offer services nationally and enjoy fellowship and ongoing development alongside other professionals in this field.

As always, IPCS endeavours to foster and resource this important ministry of ‘watching over one another in love’.

[1] Formerly the Professional Certificate in Pastoral Supervision

[2] Association for Pastoral Supervision and Education 

February – July 2025 

This course is for you if you have been offering pastoral supervision and would like to work towards accreditation with APSE.