Is it possible for students to use the home church as a field site?
Generally not. The main objectives in field education are that the student identify her/his own call to ministry and develop a pastoral identity and leadership style. These objectives are not easily met when relationships and expectations have already been developed in the context of church membership. However, we recognize that in some denominations, congregations sponsor their own members for seminary education with the understanding that the student will continue in service to that congregation. We honor the tradition for those denominations.
