Hybrid courses — Self-paced plus scheduled Zoom sessions
The health minister certificate provides a broad introductory, educational foundation for individuals desiring core competency to serve as health ministers (health advocates, health promoters, health ambassadors) in a faith community setting. The Health Ministry Certificate is based on the guidelines published in 2018 by the Health Ministries Association's "The Health Minister Role: Guidelines and Foundational Curriculum Elements." The HMA document also encompasses common core curriculum and foundational elements found in various national best practice models for health minister training and education. The Heal the Sick (HTS) program of Wesley Theological Seminary DC has utilized this curriculum as a basis for the certificate.
This program is intended to build foundation skill and knowledge in whole person health. We will look at the role of the health minister primarily in a faith community setting. However, health ministers interact with a multitude of systems and structures inside and outside the congregation. We will also explore how the health minister interacts and works with others in the congregation (clergy, faith community nurses, caring ministries, etc.) and various health, human, and social services (public health, health care systems, government, etc.).
Course schedule
Exploring the Foundations and Principles of Faith, Health, and Wellness
Aug. 30–Sept. 19, 2026
Introduction to Faith and Health
Understanding Chronic Diseases & Its Relationship with Whole Person Health
Exploring Contemporary Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Well Being Practices for Yourself, Congregation, & Community
Sept. 20–Oct. 10, 2026
Nutrition and Wellness: Becoming the Best Version of You
Mental Health: Raising Understanding & Decreasing Stigma for You and Your Faith Community
Spiritual & Self-Care Practices for Health Ministry
Communicating and Organizing for Health Ministry in Your Congregation
Oct. 11–Nov. 2, 2026
Health Ministry Models - Models of Practice. Support. & Networking
Communicating and Organizing for Health Ministry
Introduction to Asset Mapping
Connecting People and Congregations to Health Resources
Nov. 3–21, 2026
Healthcare & Health System Module
Health Literacy
Advance Care Issues: End of Life & Palliative Care
Accountability, Professional Responsibility, and Legal Considerations for Health Ministry
Nov. 22–Dec. 5, 2026
Accountability
Legal Considerations