In a world swirling with change, leaders need to know not only how to do ministry but how to think about ministry in order that they can change and lead change. Graduate preparation for such ministry entails a complex combination of content, critical reflection skills, imagination, courage, opportunities to practice the skills of leadership, and denominational and ministerial formation.

At PTS, ministerial formation goes hand-in-hand with ecumenical theological education. We could not fulfill our mission without strong church partnerships. Dozens of congregations provide teaching and learning contexts for students. Particular partnerships developed with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), The United Methodist Church, the United Church of Christ, the Presbyterian Church (USA), the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Oklahoma enable us to educate church leaders who both know the mission and work of the ecumenical church as well as the traditions and practices of their own denominations.

In partnership with these denominations' ordination committees, PTS has identified formation directors. Each director is prepared to assist students regarding requirements for ordination, denominational history and polity, and denominational services and programs.