New Master Study Group in Friedensau: MA in Pastoral Ministry and MA in Theological Studies

After taking this photo on registration day of the 2026 winter semester at Friedensau Adventist University, my colleague quietly said to me: “This is a historic photo.” Historic photos usually become so in hindsight, but I can see already now, at the end of the second week of lectures, why this group of twelve young people from different cultures and backgrounds could become a spiritual taskforce that will significantly contribute to pastoral ministry in the territory of the Inter-European Division. They come from Germany, Portugal, France, and South Africa, having completed their Bachelor of Theology at Friedensau, Collonges, Helderberg, and Mountain View. Eleven are pursuing the Master program in Pastoral Ministry, and one is registered for the Master program in Theological Studies. Their journeys to Friedensau are marked by prayerfully considered decisions, miraculously provided financing, and a deep personal desire to serve God wherever he leads.

After a thorough revision of the curriculum for the MA in Pastoral Ministry, which introduces an opportunity for students to choose between specializations in different areas of theology (this new cohort can choose between a specialization in either Old Testament or Pastoral Care), we are grateful that such an encouraging number of students has responded to this opportunity to further their theological studies before entering ministry. As part of their time here at Friedensau, they will also regularly apply their freshly acquired knowledge and skills in a variety of different church settings within the local conference and beyond.

History will tell, as they say, and we look forward to the moment when this photo will resurface on digital timelines, and we remember how this group came together on registration day at Friedensau, October 5, 2026.

Martin G. Klingbeil, D.Litt. | Professor of Old Testament | Program Director, MA in Pastoral Ministry