Minister of Religion
Tasks & duties
Ministers of religion may do some or all of the following:
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prepare and give sermons, talks or ceremonies
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prepare people for religious ceremonies
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pray and promote spirituality
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build a community of faith, and work on developing relationships and networks within that community
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visit people in their homes, at hospitals and in prisons
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talk to people with problems, help them make decisions about their spiritual life, or deal with bereavement
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refer people to community support services, psychologists or doctors
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carry out associated administrative work
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assist in co-ordinating volunteers or church community groups
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research and study religion
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train leaders for church, community and youth leadership
Skills & knowledge
Ministers of religion need to have:
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knowledge of the history, spirituality, traditions and ceremonies of their religion
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people skills and knowledge of human behaviour and relationships
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an understanding of the issues involved in talking about life issues such as grief
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knowledge of the culture of the community they are working with
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counselling and conflict resolution skills
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communication and listening skills
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public speaking skills
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leadership and teaching skills
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research and writing skills
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planning and organisational skills
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time management skills
Entry requirements
Each religion has different entry requirements to become a minister of religion. Some prefer their ministers to have a university degree.
You must have strong personal religious beliefs and feel that you are being called into the ministry. You should also have an active involvement in your faith's community, which may be assessed by practising ministers of religion of your faith.
Secondary education
A tertiary entrance qualification is recommended. Useful subjects include English, languages, history and classics.
Training on the job
Many skills are gained on the job. Ministers of religion often begin by assisting an experienced minister.
Further theological training, such as completing an Honours or Masters degree in theology, ministry or religious studies, can be completed by doing distance studies while you work. Some courses allow theses to contain a practical component.
Useful experience
Experience as a counsellor or teacher, or any work which involves helping people is useful.
Related courses
Religious Studies
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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