Healing the Heart of Ministry: 2025 Korean DMin Summer Intensive at CST
Claremont School of Theology (CST) proudly launched its 2025 Summer Intensive for the Korean Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Practical Theology under the inspiring theme, “A Journey Toward Healing and Transformation.” Held from July 7 to 18, this summer session marks a milestone as the program’s first fully synchronous, Zoom-based offering following its official approval for 100% remote delivery by the U.S. Department of Education. The intensive presents an invaluable opportunity for pastoral leaders to deepen their understanding of conflict transformation and healing within today’s complex ministry landscape.
The program is structured around two intensive week-long courses. The first, IDM 438: Transforming Self and Educational Ministry in the Multicultural World, is led by Dr. Hyun Sun Oh, a CST alumna and esteemed practical theologian specializing in Christian education and multicultural ministry. Through this course, students critically engage with Korea’s rapidly evolving multicultural and multiethnic context. Utilizing cognitive behavioral theory, immigration studies, and participatory learning methods, they explore transformative approaches to educational ministry, while enhancing their pastoral self-awareness and care skills.
The second course, IDM 4034: Interpreting Conflict, Healing and Reconciliation in the Old Testament, is taught by Dr. Soo J. Sweeney Kim, a CST alumna and renowned Old Testament scholar. This course delves into biblical foundations for conflict resolution, healing, and reconciliation, inviting students to apply contemporary hermeneutical methods in ministry settings through project-based learning.
This year, 23 doctoral students participate in the intensive, embodying the vibrant and diverse spirit of the Korean DMin community. CST has enhanced the learning experience by requiring all students to use institutionally provided Zoom accounts and access materials via the Populi learning management system. These improvements aim to increase online security, foster community connection, and support seamless learning.
Beginning July 7 (Korean Standard Time), the first course has focused on Pastoral Self-Care and Communal Care within Church Ministries. Under Dr. Hyun Sun Oh’s expert guidance, students engage deeply with both theological frameworks and practical ministry realities, reflecting on their pastoral roles and envisioning new pathways for healing and renewal.
CST’s Korean DMin program offers immersive learning twice annually: an in-person intensive in Korea each January and an online intensive each July. These sessions serve as both academic enrichment and sacred spaces for pastoral leaders to nurture their vocations, address communal wounds, and envision transformative ministry.
The school extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Hyun Sun Oh for her exceptional leadership and to all 23 students for their thoughtful and passionate engagement. More than a series of courses, this summer intensive represents a sacred journey toward healing, reconciliation, and transformation at the heart of ministry.