Capstone Project: Integrating Theology Into Ministry Practice

Capstone represents culmination of the theology program · Integrates academic learning with practical ministry application · Six project format options available

Theological research engages biblical texts, classical theology, and contemporary voices · Research methodology: topic selection, literature review, source evaluation · Critical engagement analyzes; constructive engagement builds; faithful engagement serves the church

Strong proposal includes title, description, theological foundation, scope, methodology, timeline, outcomes, and resources · Proposal should be specific, theologically deep, and demonstrate integration of learning · Be realistic and feasible in planning

Theological writing requires clear thesis grounded in Scripture and tradition · Arguments integrate scriptural foundation, theological tradition, logical reasoning, and contemporary relevance · Use exegetical, systematic, contextual, and comparative analysis techniques

Capstone integrates learning across biblical, systematic, historical, practical, contextual, and missional theology · Four integration strategies: thematic, doctrinal, problem-centered, ministry-centered · Show explicit connections between disciplines

Theology must translate into meaningful ministry practice · Six bridges: preaching, pastoral care, spiritual formation, leadership, mission, justice · Practical theology uses cycle: experience → reflection → analysis → action → evaluation

Chicago/Turabian style is most common in theology · Properly cite direct quotations, paraphrases, and ideas · Avoid plagiarism through careful documentation and attribution

Present capstone in format appropriate to project type · Prepare thoroughly for oral presentations and questions · Defend your work respectfully and with evidence

Assessed on: theological depth (25%), practical application (20%), writing quality (20%), original thinking (15%), integration (20%) · Rubric provides Excellent/Good/Satisfactory/Needs Improvement standards for each dimension · Grading scale: A (90-100) to F (below 60)

Reflect on theological growth, integration of learning, ministry development, and spiritual formation · Celebrate your accomplishment — you have demonstrated theological mastery · Share your capstone with church and theological community