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A Phenomenological Study Of Native Village Pastors’ Perceptions Of The Alaska School Of Ministry, Cynthia L. Cohen
A Phenomenological Study Of Native Village Pastors’ Perceptions Of The Alaska School Of Ministry, Cynthia L. Cohen
Doctor of Education (Ed.D)
The Alaska School of Ministry (AKSOM) was established to provide ministerial education venues in Alaska. This phenomenological study queried pastors who provide ministry in Alaska Native villages to examine their perceptions of AKSOM and perceived effects of the program on their ministries and villages. Fifteen participants, including students and AKSOM leaders from various ethnicities, were interviewed. Transcripts were analyzed to discover common themes. Five themes were noted, which included relationship (fellowship, local, approachable), flexibility, empowerment (support, confidence), practicality, and financial feasibility. All leaders and students perceived the program as a valuable and effective education tool in preparation for ministry in …