Major Minor
Go into ministry • Develop a foundation • Impact your community
March 9, 2026
JBU equips students in the Christian ministry and formation program to minister to people across the lifespan, within family systems, and across cultures and various ministry contexts.
Our vision is to develop graduates who are qualified to work with children, youth, adults, and families in a variety of domestic, professional, and international venues such as churches, inner-city ministries, camps, businesses, overseas missions and parachurch organizations.
In this program I discovered my love for teaching and preaching God's Story. JBU's CMF program was integral to my personal growth and ability to serve pastorally. It connected me with professors who have ministry experience, gave me a foundation for how to do ministry and lead people well, and provided me with opportunities to discover my own giftings and calling.
Kara Shull '21
Christian Ministry & Formation
Students will clearly identify their ministry call, calling, and unique SHAPE (spiritual gifts, heart, abilities, personality, experiences) for ministry.
Students will demonstrate competence in exegeting and applying biblical passages, teaching and preaching biblical messages, relating with and discipling people of various generations, leading and administrating programs and events, and providing spiritual guidance and brief counseling to families and individuals across the lifespan.
Students interact with and minister to one another through various fellowship activities and serve their local faith communities and organizations.
I learned to effectively minister to people through relationships. As a children’s minister I’m in contact with children mainly, but I also have the chance to connect with their parents. Through these relationships, I can help them grow spiritually just as my professors did with me.
Katie Jackman '21
Children’s Ministry Coordinator at First Baptist Church of Oak Grove, Missouri
