Two Year Ministerial Program Program Overview Our two-year training program prepares the student for active service as an ordained Interfaith Minister. Classes are held on a 10-month academic cycle, September through June. Our September cycle meets one full Saturday (usually the first Saturday) each month in New York City, plus two Sundays in the first year training and two Sundays in the second year training, as well. Students who live outside the greater New York area may participate in our training program as corresponding students. Correspondence study is integrated with our regular training programs. The first year of training provides a foundation in the Interfaith perspective, with a primary focus on comparative religion. The student studies all the world’s religions, from the Earth-based, to the Eastern, to the Abrahamic, to New Thought. Various approaches to psychology and the counseling process are also introduced in the first year, as well as an introduction to the art of ritual. Because we believe that the strongest and most essential foundation for ministry is the richness, depth, and integrity of an individuals own spiritual life, regular spiritual practice, community service, and a structured format for self-reflection and personal development are also part of the requirements of our first year training. The year culminates in a 3½ day residential, mandatory, intensive retreat that is held in the New York area. Upon successful completion of the first year, candidates are spiritually initiated into the ministry. The focus of the second year of training is developing background and experience in the practical aspects of ministry, as well as ongoing, structured reflection on the essence and spirit of service. Topics covered include deeper elements of ritual, wedding ceremonies, funeral and memorial services, naming ceremonies, worship services, prepared sermons and impromptu talks, spiritual counseling, spiritual approaches to healing, praying with people and more. Students are expected to prepare and present Interfaith worship services that are held every third Sunday of the month, and are open to the public. As a final project, each student creates an individual Minister’s Service and Reference Manual, which is intended to serve as a foundation for their beginning active work as a minister. The second year training culminates in a 2½ day residential Intensive held in just outside New York City, which is then followed by the Graduation and Ordination Ceremony, usually at The Cathedral of St. John the Divine, in New York City. Upon successful completion of the second year, candidates are formally graduated from the New Seminary and are ordained as Interfaith Ministers. Upon graduation, candidates are qualified to be legally recognized and registered as practicing clergy. Following graduation and ordination, our students are encouraged to continue their study and training through our Third Year program, ongoing courses and workshops in our School of Continuing Education. For additional information, use the links provided under "Educational Programs" "2 Year Program" in the menu at the top of this page, or the quick links provided here:     Year 1 Focus/Curriculum     Year 2 Focus/Curriculum     Admission Requirements     Tuition and Fees     Application     Questionnaire     Completion Requirements     Correspondence Study