Skip to main content

How to become a minister of religion

Provide services and spiritual information and act in social justice or poverty alleviation programs.

What does a minister of religion do?

Ministers of Religion are spiritual leaders tasked with performing the duties ascribed to them by particular religions or faith traditions. They may be responsible for performing services, providing spiritual formation for members of their congregation, acting in social justice or poverty alleviation programs, or liaising with members of the wider community.

Duties and tasks

  • Develop, coordinate, or work for social outreach or social justice programs.

  • May proselytize or evangelize, depending on the religion.

  • Perform marriages, funerals, and other special religious ceremonies according to tradition and ecclesiastical and civil law.

  • Prepare sermons or services and deliver them for the congregation.

  • Provide emotional support and spiritual activities for members of their particular congregation.

  • Teach or coordinate religious education classes.

  • Work with musical directors to plan music for services.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

  • Chaplain

  • Clergyman/woman

  • Imam

  • Minister

  • Monk

  • Pastor

  • Priest

  • Rabbi

  • Religious leader

  • Salvation army officer

  • Welfare caseworker

  • Youth worker

Discover related degrees

Australian Catholic University

Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies

PostgraduateACU-THS-GDI

Deepen your understating of faith through the lens of Catholicism

Explore theology with a specialisation of your choice, including ancient languages and spirituality. Study the Bible and its impact on society. Build advanced skills for service in churches, education or chaplaincy, and pathway to a masters.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Australian Catholic University

Graduate Certificate in Supervision

PostgraduateACU-SUP-GCE

Spiritual supervision skills and knowledge for the helping professions

ACU offers formal studies in spiritual direction and supervision. In this course, you’ll explore the supervision of people in professional roles, like ministry, education, and health. Review ethical practices and safe standards. Develop self-awareness.

Study method
100% online
Australian Catholic University

Master of Spiritual Direction

PostgraduateACU-SPI-MAS

Explore the practice of spiritual direction in the Ignatian tradition

Deepen your understanding of Christian theology and help others on their spiritual journey. You’ll build confidence to guide people seeking purpose and meaning. Cover theological and ethical frameworks, along with practical skills for ministry work.

Study method
100% online
Australian Catholic University

Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Direction

PostgraduateACU-SPD-GDI

Guide people towards a deeper relationship with God

Develop your understanding of the themes and methodologies in Catholic spirituality. You’ll learn how to integrate that knowledge in professional practice. Study the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises. Become an ethical and self-aware spiritual director.

Study method
100% online
Explore religion courses

Discover related subjects

University of New England
Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 19 Oct 2026
Curtin University
Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 1 Dec 2025, 30 Nov 2026

Enrolments open until 4 Dec

Australian National University

Sanskrit 1

UndergraduateANU-SKRT1002

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 23 Feb 2026
University of New England

Exploring the Sacred

UndergraduateUNE-RELS380

Study method
100% online

Need help making study choices for your career?

Student advisor working on a laptop in OUA’s bright and modern office atrium
Matthew is part of our team of student advisors here to answer your questions.

Need help making study choices for your career?

Our student advisors will turn your aspirations into a clear study path.

They'll help you with:

  • Choosing and enrolling in the right course for your desired career, including pathway options.

  • Mapping a study plan that allows you to balance work and home commitments.

  • Understanding eligibility for funding, including HECS-HELP loans.

Get unbiased advice at no cost today.

Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us

Step up your career with these resources

What is social science?

Curious about the social sciences, but puzzled by what they actually are? You’re not alone. We spoke to an expert about the career prospects for graduates in this vast field of study.