Andover Newton Catalogue and Courses of Instruction
BCIM 602
CPE at Hebrew SeniorLife/Hebrew Rehabilitation Center - Intensive
This is a 10 week intensive course, counts as 6 credits, 3 for Border-Crossing Immersion and 3 for CPE elective credit. This course is a full unit in Clincial Pastoral Education (CPE) meeting all requirements for a Level I or II unit in CPE, while providing students a border crossing immersion in a context of learning with most CPE students there preparing for the rabbinate, working in a Jewish senior residence with an average age of over 90, with residents who speak languages of their country of birth and who are mostly supported by medicaid. Prerequisite: Completion of one year of seminary. Limit: 2.
Summer 2010
Application Deadline: November 1, 2009
Cost:
Summer -
BCIM 602Y
CPE at Hebrew SeniorLife - Year long
This is a year long course that will count as 6 credits, 3 for Border Crossing Immersion and 3 for CPE elective credit. This course is a full unit in Clincial Pastoral Education (CPE) meeting all requirements for a Level I or II unit in CPE in an extended unit requiring two full days a week. It will provide students a border crossing immersion in a context that provides the opportunity to learn with a majority of the CPE students preparing for the rabbinate, working in a Jewish senior residence with residents who have an average age of over 90, (many of whom speak languages from their countries of birth), and most of who are supported by medicaid. Prerequisite: Completion of one year of seminary. Limit: 2.
Fall -
BCIM 605Y
Seminarians in the City
This course requires a 15 hour-a-week commitment over the full academic year and will give 6 credits: 3 for Border Crossing requirement and 3 for elective credit. It will involve making a commitment of one’s time and heart to engagement in the city of Boston with a placement in a city social service agency or church and interacting with the people of that neighborhood. This Border Crossing Immersion will be working with 4 or 5 students in the BTI to cultivate Christian leaders ready to take on the social and spiritual challenges of ministering in the city. The course will be sponsored and led by the City Mission Society of Boston. Prerequisite: 15 credits of seminary study. Limit: 2.
Fall -
BCIM 615
Fierce Landscapes: Listening to the People of Appalachia
This immersion seminar finds its home among the people of Western North Carolina and Southwest Virginia. Students will enjoy on-site interactions with congregations, religious, and community leaders. Time for worship and reflection provides the framework for the immersions. Participants will be aided by readings prior to the immersion experience. The 12-day immersion experience is followed by 3-4 interactive distance learning sessions and a 15-20 page integrative paper. Sponsored by Wake Forest Divinity School. Contact Border-Crossing Immersion Director Brita Gill-Austern if you are interested.
Winter 2010 – January 1-12
Application Deadline: October 1, 2009
Cost: $900.00 plus travel (scholarship available)
Winter - January 1-12
BCIM 620
Christ, Culture and Mission in Appalachia
Beginning in the foothills of Appalachia, class participants visit family farms before traveling to the coalfields of southeastern Kentucky. The purpose of the travel seminar is to immerse students in the realities of Appalachia in order that they may encounter the mission of God in the culture and experiences of the people. The class will include worship, theological and cultural analysis, reading, and reflection. We end our visit on the beautiful campus of Pine Mountain Settlement School. This is a 17-day immersion course with a final integrative paper. Sponsored by Columbia Theological Seminary. Contact Border-Crossing Immersion Director Brita Gill-Austern if you are interested.
Winter 2010 – January 6-22
Application Deadline: October 1, 2009
Cost: $1,000.00 plus travel (scholarship available)
Winter - January 6-22
BCIM 630
Border Crossing: Listening to the Tales of Children's Lives in Appalachia
This border crossing immersion seeks to deepen students’ understanding of how the gospel is lived out in rural Appalachia, with particular attention to its impact on the lives of children. Social and cultural analysis will be employed to help students examine the structures, institutions and cultural practices that both promote and interfere with children’s wellbeing. Prerequisite: Ethics and Social Justice course highly recommended. Limit: 12.
Summer 2010 – May 9-20
Application Deadline: February 18, 2010
Cost: $950 plus travel (scholarship available)
Summer - May 9-20
BCIM 650
Homeless Families: Housing Families, Inc.
This semester-long course seeks to enter into and sustain a mutual relationship of learning and care with Housing Families, Inc., an organization that provides services and housing to effectively transition homeless families into permanent housing. Since Housing Families is a local organization, this border-crossing experience spans an entire semester. Possibilities for interaction would include volunteering with the children’s program, teaching different skills that promote stability (for example: job training, budgeting and money management, healthy eating and body consciousness), taking a course - at one of their sites - with Housing Families clients on a particular topic (for example: philosophy, world religions, creative writing and spirituality). Prerequisite: ETHI 601 or 602. Limit: 20. Cost: $200
Application deadline: November 15, 2009
Spring - TBA
BCIM 659
Borders, Fences and Immigration: The U.S./Mexico Border
This Border Crossing Immersion trip will take place on the border between Mexico and the U.S. with the majority of our time being spent in Nogales, Mexico, a border town near Tucson, Arizona. This class will study the complex issues of immigration, the related issues of global economics that drive immigration and the implications of the militarization of the border on those who cross. We shall study multiple perspectives on immigration with the goal of empowering persons to address and respond to a critical and divisive issue in our society and in churches. We will join with the bi-national, non-profit organization of Borderlinks for our time at the border. Limit: 12. This course will also fulfill PSYC/FHSP/TMPL requirements in the old curriculum.
Winter 2010 – January 14-24
Application Deadline: October 5, 2009
Cost:
Winter - January 14-24
BCIM 702/802
Teaching the Bible in Context: Hawaii
[CMED/NEWT]
This course explores the art and craft of teaching the Bible in congregations and other ministry settings within the multicultural setting of Hawaii. Teaching and studying the Bible is one essential Christian faith practice that builds upon an understanding of both the scriptures and the art and craft of teaching. One aspect of teaching the Bible is the educational methods which addresses the question of: How is religious education undertaken and realized? This question will be explored in the context of other educational questions which address the content, nature, purposes, context, and interpersonal relationships of any teaching ministry. This course focuses upon the content of the Bible in the context of Hawaii and considers a variety of ways in which to use the Bible in group learning. This course will also fulfill a CMED or upper-level Scripture requirement.
Winter 2011 – TBA
Application Deadline:
Cost: not yet known
Winter -
BCIM/WCHR 610
Christian Service and Religious Pluralism in India
This is a joint course offered between Andover Newton Theological School and Liverpool Hope University with former ANTS full time Faculty member Dr. Daniel Jeyaraj, now adjunct faculty.
India is term for kaleidoscopic diversity and functional unity – a miracle in the 21st century: 1.3 billion people, 1,652 languages, about 4,000 people groups, birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, home to Christianity, Islam, Zoroastrianism, and numerous primal religions, and the largest democracy in the world! India also stands for glaring paradoxes: extreme rich people and people in abject poverty, religious tolerance and religious violence, booming economy for some and large scale suffering for many, growing tendencies of globalization and parochialism, caste-based inequalities and untouchability, and the like. Yet life continues and hope radiates. People struggle for justice and equality. Questions of gender and women leadership are hotly discussed. The old and young of India constitute an immense storehouse of intellectual knowledge and practical survival skills that will be useful for people living in Western Europe and North America.
Christians in India, a mere 2.4% of the population, wrestle with these baffling realities and seek to serve fellow Indians meaningfully. This travel seminar is designed to give participating students from Andover Newton Theological School and Liverpool Hope University penetrating glimpses into the nature and purpose of Christian service in the midst of dominant socio-religious cultures such as Hinduism and Islam. It will take place in three different locations: in Mumbai, Bangalore, and Tiruchirappali.
Application Deadline: October 5, 2009
Cost: land fare $1,800; air travel is separate.
Winter - January 2-19
CHRS 601Y
Spirituality, Seminary, and You: Spiritual Formation
A small group experience for all first-year students designed to provide a touchstone community and “home base” support for negotiating the many new experiences, changes, and questions inherent in pursuing a theological education. Groups will serve as a safe context for communal reflection on the intersection of personal faith and spirituality with the seminary experience, and for engaging selected devotional practices that may help ground and sustain students as they begin to live into their theological education. This is a year-long course, meeting monthly.
Fall -
CHRS 601Y
Seminary, Spirituality and You: Spiritual Formation
A small group experience for all first-year students designed to provide a touchstone community and “home base” support for negotiating the many new experiences, changes, and questions inherent in pursuing a theological education. Groups will serve as a safe context for communal reflection on the intersection of personal faith and spirituality with the seminary experience, and for engaging selected devotional practices that may help ground and sustain students as they begin to live into their theological education. This is a year-long course, meeting monthly.
Spring -
CHRS 723S
[EL] The Practice of Prayer
“Practice makes perfect” has often been the slogan for teachers and parents who want to impress upon their students or children the importance of discipline. In reality, practice never makes perfect, “practice makes permanent.” This course will explore the many forms of prayer available to us as we practice our spiritual life. This course fulfills the WCHR requirement.
Limit 25
Spring - ELearning course - Course Closed
CM __ 789-790
Directed Study in Areas of Ministerial Leadership
Permission of professor required.CM- (-ED, -FE, -LE, -PR, or -WO)
M.A. and M.Div. candidates only.
Fall -
CM __ 889-890
Directed Study in Areas of Ministerial Leadership
Permission of professor required.CM- (-ED, -FE, -LE, -PR, or -WO)
S.T.M. and D.Min. candidates only.
Fall -
CM __ 989-990
Directed Study in Areas of Ministerial Leadership
Permission of professor required.CM- (-ED, -FE, -LE, -PR, or -WO)
Ph.D. Candidates only. Doctoral Project Directed Study.
Fall -
CMED 601
Educational Ministry of the Church
A survey course in Christian education designed for prospective pastors, directors of education and lay leaders in the educational ministry of the local church in various settings.
Fall - Monday, 9:00 a.m. - 11:50 a.m.
CMED 601F
Educational Ministry of the Church
A survey course in Christian education designed for prospective pastors and lay leaders in the educational ministry of the local church in various settings. This course fulfills the CMED distribution requirement.
Fall - Monday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
CMED 601F [P3]
Educational Ministry of the Church
Dr. Charlotte Pridgen-Randolph
The Reverend Dr. Pridgen-Randolph Professor-Practitioner Program (P3) designated course for field education students.
Limit: 8
Fall - Monday 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
CMED 605
Educational Ministry Across the Life Span
This course explores changes and growth of persons with educational ministry implications for children, youth, and adults, within and outside of congregations.
Fall - Wednesday, 2:00 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.
CMED 605 [P3]
Educational Ministry Across the Life Span
Professor-Practitioner Program (P3) designated course for field education students. Limit: 8.
Fall - Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. - noon
CMED 605F
Educational Ministry Across the Life-Span
This course explores changes and growth of persons with educational ministry implications for children, youth, and adults, within and outside of congregations. This course fulfills the CMED requirement.
Fall - Wednesday 6:00 - 8:50 p.m.
CMED 614
Teaching: Its Art and Craft
This course explores that art and craft of teaching in congregations and other ministry settings. Teaching is one essential Christian faith practice that builds upon an understanding of the art and craft of teaching and requires reflection upon its effective practice. Limit: 12.
Spring - Wednesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m. CLOSED
CMED 614J
Teaching: Its Art and Craft
This course explores that art and craft of teaching in congregations and other ministry settings. Teaching is one essential Christian faith practice that builds upon an understanding of the art and craft of teaching and requires reflection upon its effective practice.
Limit 12
Summer - June 1-12, 9:00 am - noon
CMED 620
History and Philosophy of Christian Education
A survey of historical developments in Christian education followed by the exploration of a philosophy of religious education that addresses contemporary issues.
Spring - Tuesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
CMED 620 [P3]
History and Philosophy of Christian Education
Professor-Practitioner Program (P3) designated course for field education students. Limit: 8.
Spring - Tuesday, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
CMED 620/820S
History and Philosophy of Christian Education
A survey of historical developments in Christian education followed by the exploration of a philosophy of religious education that addresses contemporary issues. This course fulfills the CMED requirement.
Spring - Tuesday 9-11:50 a.m.
CMED 701F
[EL] Today’s Children’s Ministry
This course will examine Biblical and theological foundations in order to provide a practical approach to ministry with children, which goes beyond basic programming. A particular focus will be given to children’s spiritual and faith development using key contemporary writings and research in light of current issues impacting children’s lives. Students in this course will engage a holistic perspective to ministry with children and are expected to articulate a relevant church approach and vision. Prerequisite: Introductory CMED course. This course fulfills an upper-level CMED requirement.
Limit 25
Fall - ELearning course.
CMED 734/834S
Seminar on Problems and Issues in Religious Education
This seminar explores some of the significant problems and issues in the theory and practice of religious education.
Contemporary issues as raised by various leaders in the field are examined for the purpose of formulating present and future strategies in diverse contexts.
Spring - Wed. 2-4:50 pm
CMED 770
Campus and Young Adult Ministry
Many religious leaders view younger adults as the most difficult population to reach. What does faith development theory, enlivened by the experiences of leaders in campus and parish ministry, have to offer those seeking to connect with men and women in this fast-changing phase of the adult lifespan? Through theoretical study, personal reflection, interaction with campus and parish ministers, and site visits to settings where young adults gather, this course will introduce students to the theory and practice of ministering to younger adults in campus and parish settings. Students must be prepared for one day off-campus, using Boston public transportation (at the student’s expense) to visit ministry sites in Cambridge. Only with special permission from the instructor and an additional assignment, students may take this course to meet the Religious Education distributional requirement.
Winter - January 4-8 – 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
CMFE 615
Theological Reflection: In a Mirror, Less Darkly
Students in this course will explore different types of theological reflection as a means for learning and growing as ministers and leaders. Students will write weekly reflections, sharing some with the class and discovering how God speaks through the practice of theological reflection. The practical aspects of reflecting theologically will help students lear how to make theological reflection a lifelong practice that they can teach to others in their ministry settings. Prerequisite: current involvement in a supervised ministry setting. This course meets the Christian Spiritual Resources requirement in the old M.Div. curriculum and can substitute for a Spiritual Formation Group for transitioning students in the new M.Div. curriculum.
Fall - Monday, 2:00 – 4:50 p.m.
CMFE 620
Field Education Integrative Seminar
This course will provide an integrative seminar experience for those not able to participate in the regular P3 courses. Students will use of framework for ministerial leadership provided by the text to reflect upon their field education experiences. Individual cases students will provide the basis for class discussion in order to integrate theory and practice. Permission from Sarah Drummond or Kathryn Windsor is required; students may not register without having already received permission. Limit: 8.
Fall - Wednesday, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
CMFE 621
Integrative Seminar
This course will provide an integrative seminar experience for those not able to participate in the regular P3 courses. Students will use of framework for ministerial leadership provided by the text to reflect upon their field education experiences. Individual cases students will provide the basis for class discussion in order to integrate theory and practice. Permission from Sarah Drummond or Kathryn Windsor is required. Limit: 8.
Spring - Wednesday, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
CMFE 621S
Field Education Integrative Seminar
This course will provide an integrative seminar experience for those students not able to participate in the regular P3 courses. Students will use of framework for ministerial leadership provided by the text to reflect upon their field education experiences. Individual student cases will provide the basis for class discussion in order to integrate theory and practice. Students who are ineligible for a P3 course may enroll in this seminar to fulfill their Field Education requirement (in the first two semesters in Field Education) for 1.5 credits. Graded SAT/UNSAT required. The Integrative Seminar I is NOT a prerequisite. Permission of the Field Education Program is required.
Limit: 8
Spring - Wed. 7-8:30 pm - Course Closed
CMFE 701 F/S
Field Education, post-requirement
Many students benefit from a second year of field education, either in the same setting as the first or in a different ministry site. With or without participating in the Professor-Practitioner Program (P3), students may receive 3 credits for a second year of field education. They must participate in orientation sessions (see course description: CMFE 601Y) and submit all relevant documents for the program. In a second year, students register for CMFE 701; in a third year, 702; in a fourth year, 703. Prerequisite: CMFE 601Y.
Fall -
CMFE 701F
Field Education, Fall Semester, post-requirement
Students enrolling in a second year of field education register for this course. This 1.5 credit course includes covenanting with a ministry setting and supervisor, writing theological reflections, and working with partners to assess progress. Students may audit with permission; auditors will be expected to complete all requirements. Graded SAT/UNSAT, permission of the Field Education Program required. Concurrent enrollment in a P3 course and section is optional for an additional 1.5 credits. This course, in conjunction with CMFE 701F, fulfills the upper-level Ministerial Practice requirement. Must enroll in ONE required orientation session, which will include an overview of field education and preparation for theological reflection:
CMFE01 September 11, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
CMFE02 September 12, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Fall - See description.
CMFE 701S
Field Education, Spring Semester, post-requirement
Students enrolling in second year of field education register for this course in the second semester. This 1.5 credit course includes covenanting with a ministry setting and supervisor, writing theological reflections, and working with partners to assess progress. Students may audit with permission; auditors will be expected to complete all requirements. Graded SAT/UNSAT, permission of the Field Education Program required. Concurrent enrollment in a P3 course and section is optional for an additional 1.5 credits. This course, in conjunction with CMFE 701S, fulfills the upper-level Ministerial Practice requirement. Must enroll in ONE required orientation session, which will include an overview of field education and preparation for theological reflection:
CMFE01 January 29, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
CMFE02 January 30, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Spring - See description.
CMFE 702 F/S
CMFE 702 F/S
Students registering for the third year in Field Education should follow the pattern and requirements described above in CMFE 701 F/S. CMFE 702 is for third-year students.
Spring -
CMFE 703 F/S
CMFE 703 F/S
Students registering for the fourth year in Field Education should follow the pattern and requirements described above in CMFE 701 F/S. CMFE 703 for fourth-year students.
Spring -
CMFE 721/821Y
Foundations in the Theory and Practice of Ministry Supervision
This course prepares participants to supervise students in theological field education. It introduces supervision as a distinct discipline for ministry, complete with its own history and varying approaches. It provides participants with opportunities to learn about the theory and practice of supervision and to reflect upon their own work with students.
Fall - Thursday - 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
CMFE 721Y
Theory and Practice of Ministry Supervision
This course prepares participants to supervise students in theological field education. It introduces supervision as a distinct discipline for ministry, complete with its own history and varying approaches. It provides participants with opportunities to learn about the theory and practice of supervision and to reflect upon their own work with students. Prerequisite: Must be currently supervising a field education student.
Fall - Thursday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
CMFE 783W
Mentoring and Ministry
In a wide variety of ministry settings, lay and ordained Christian leaders find themselves with the responsibility, the opportunity, and the challenge of mentoring others. How is mentoring different from other roles, such as counseling, pastoring, or supervising? What skills are important for effective mentoring? Do people need different kinds of mentors at different points in their lives? Is there a distinctly Christian approach to mentoring? What are the advantages and drawbacks of formal mentoring programs, in comparison with informal mentoring relationships? 1.5 credit course, elective in CMFE. Meets requirement for continuing education for approved field education supervisors.
Winter - January 12 – 14
CMLE 607
Theory and Practice of Ministerial Leadership
The key to effective leadership in the congregation is a blending of art and skill, of personal traits and developed abilities. The art of leadership comes from who we are as persons of faith. The skill of leadership comes from the use of appropriate methods for achieving desired goals. This course will explore both the art and skill of leadership in the congregation, with particular attention to the specific practices that are essential to leading faithfully in today’s church.
Fall - Thursday, 2:00 – 4:50 p.m.
CMLE 607S
Theory and Practice of Ministerial Leadership
The key to effective leadership in the congregation is a blending of art and skill, of personal traits and developed abilities. The art of leadership comes from who we are as persons of faith. The skill of leadership comes from the use of appropriate methods for achieving desired goals. This course will explore both the art and skill of leadership in the congregation, with particular attention to the specific practices that are essential to leading faithfully in today’s church. This course fulfills the CMLE requirement.
Spring - Wed. 2-4:50 pm
CMLE 618F
Creating Healthy Congregations: The Role of the Minister from a Systems Perspective
How a minister asserts leadership and handles pressure in a congregation indicates whether that ministry will provide a therapeutic influence or be sabotaged by the congregation’s weaknesses. This course will examine the psychology of ministerial leadership and look at how such leadership can support the development of congregational
health. It will offer psychological and group dynamic theories, and a repertoire of tools and techniques with which to intervene in a congregational system. This course meets the CMLE distribution requirement for the M.Div.
Limit: 25
Fall - Friday 1:00 - 3:50 p.m.
CMLE 645 [EL]
Leading for the Future
Leading for the future means helping people and institutions face the reality of change. This course will explore the context that makes transformative change essential, approaches to change in congregations, and the styles and skills of the leadership that enhance the process of change.
Summer - ELearning course, May 24 - July 2
CMLE 673J [EL]
Perspectives on Congregational Transformation
Using the writings of a number of contemporary advocates of congregational renewal and change, this course will explore key dynamics shaping the context in which congregations find themselves today. A particular focus will be the impact of the end of Christendom and the emergence of postmodernity. Students will address appropriate responses to these realities and consider their significance for their own ministry.
Summer - ELearning course - May 26 - July 3
CMLE 704/804 [EL]
Leading from Within
In twenty-first century America, leaders are rewarded for their drive, decisiveness, productivity, and long work hours. What would it mean for a leader to cultivate the inner life, to step off the treadmill, to take time apart for personal reflection? What would leadership arising from a core of spiritual groundedness and compassion look like? This will be an experiential course, in which participants’ own leadership experiences will serve as the basis for reflection and discernment. Insights from the fields of spirituality, management, and leadership studies will be combined to consider leadership of businesses, churches, non-profits, hospitals, and other organizations. Permission of the instructor required. One on-campus session required on February 6, from 9:00am to 5:00pm; two additional optional on-campus sessions, TBA.
Spring - ELearning course, one on-campus session 2/6, 9am to 5pm; two add'l optional on-campus sessions, TBA.
CMLE 721/821Y
Foundations in the Theory and Practice of Ministry Supervision
This course prepares participants to supervise students in theological field education. It introduces supervision as a distinct discipline for ministry, complete with its own history and varying approaches. It provides participants with opportunities to learn about the theory and practice of supervision and to reflect upon their own work with students.
Fall - Thursday - 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
CMLE 734F
Congregational Life
This course will examine representative congregations in order to develop a deeper understanding of how communities of faith are engaging this time of historical change. We will use narrative, history, sociology, theology,
and the growing literature on congregational studies to aid us in our explorations. Visits to area churches are included. Prerequisite: Access to a ministry setting. Not recommended for first year students. Best taken while in Field Education or engaged in a congregational setting. This course meets the CMLE distribution requirement for M.Div.
Fall - Thursday 2:00 - 4:50 p.m.
CMLE 735/835
Seeing Things Whole: Spirituality, Congregations and Organizations
Spirituality and spiritual formation are integral not only to individuals, but also to congregations and other organizations. This course will combine insights from the field of spirituality and spiritual formation with insights from management and organizational studies to address such questions as: What do spiritual health and spiritual growth look like in a congregations and organizations? Do congregational and organizational spiritual development parallel individual spiritual development? How can spiritual health and spiritual growth be facilitated in a congregation or organization? How do congregational and organizational spiritual growth and concern for social justice interrelate? How does the spirituality of a congregation or organization get named, nurtured, and sustained over time? This will be an experiential course, in which participants’ own experiences in congregations and other organizations will serve as the basis for reflection and discernment. Instructor permission required.
Winter - January 11, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Jan. 12-15, 5:00 to 9:30 p.m.; Jan. 16, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
CMLE 735/835J
Seeing Things Whole: Spirituality, Congregations, and Organizations
Spirituality and spiritual formation are integral not only to individuals, but also to congregations and other organizations. This course will combine insights from the field of spirituality and spiritual formation with insights from management and organizational studies to address such questions as: What do spiritual health and spiritual growth look like in a congregations and organizations? Do congregational and organizational spiritual development parallel individual spiritual development? How can spiritual health and spiritual growth be facilitated in a congregation or organization? How do congregational and organizational spiritual growth and concern for social justice interrelate? How does the spirituality of a congregation or organization get named, nurtured, and sustained over time? This will be an experiential course, in which participants’ own experiences in congregations and other organizations will serve as the basis for reflection and discernment.
Instructor permission required, please contact her at or at mbenefiel @executivesoul.com
Summer - June 5, 5 - 9:00pm; 6th, 9am - 5pm; 8-11th, 5 - 9:30pm.
CMLE 752/852S
Interim Ministry: Theory and Practice
Rev. Dr. Anita Farber-Robertson
The transition between pastors is a unique time in the life of a congregation. In more recent times this period has gotten special attention because of the issues faced when one pastor leaves and before another arrives. An interim period well-handled can help prepare the way for the new pastor in such a way that she/he does not become in fact an “Interim” even though called as the “Settled Pastor”. To help churches move through this period it has been recognized that special skills are needed so that those who serve as interim pastors can more effectively lead. This course addresses the issues and demands of interim ministry in a comprehensive way, offering skill-sets the interim minister will need.
Spring - Monday 2-4:50 pm
CMLE 755W
Strategic Planning
This course provides students with basic introduction to strategic planning in the church and non-profit settings. Topics will include understanding the difference between strategic planning and long-range planning; environmental scans; SWOT analysis; developing mission, vision and core values statements; and development and monitoring of a full strategic plan. It will also look at the how to manage from a strategic plan and the ways in which the church and non-profit settings differ from the private sector. The course is intended for anyone who is currently serving or intends to serve in a church or non-parish leadership position. This course fulfills a Ministerial Practice upper-level elective or regular elective.
Winter - January 5-16, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
CMLE 763/863
The Turnaround Church: Inspirations and Tools for Life-Sustaining Change
Despite the fact that many mainline Protestant churches have been in decline for decades, I start with the premise that not all dying churches should or must die. Although there is no cookie-cutter solution to reversing this widespread decline, under specific conditions, some churches can be brought back to a joyful life, filled with vitality. Through intentional changes in worship, stewardship, and leadership, some churches can and do succeed in turning around with a feeling of renewed spiritual energy. It takes fresh eyes and deep abiding faith to lead people through the wilderness of change and into new ways of being a church. Since many seminary graduates will be called to serve congregations in these declining churches, this course will serve to prepare them for the actual practice of ministering under these current conditions. Prerequisite: A basic Ministerial Leadership course (CMLE 6xx) or relevant theoretical knowledge of institutional leadership.
Spring - Monday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
CMLE 775S
[EL] The Way of Emergent Church and Ministry
The emergent/emerging church movement has taken American Christianity by storm over the past decade. In this course, students will read some of the cornerstone literature of the movement and examine its theology and practice. They will also engage in conversation about the movement with an insider and a theologian. This course fulfills a CMLE requirement.
Limit: 25
Spring - ELearning course
CMLE 863 [EL]
The Religious Leader as Servant
Fall -
CMPR 601
Introduction to Preaching
An introduction to Christian preaching, situating it in liturgical and theological contexts, and providing concrete opportunities for practice and skill-development. Limit: 15. This course fulfills the CMPR distribution requirement.
Spring - Wednesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
CMPR 601S
Christian Preaching
An introduction to Christian preaching, situating it in liturgical and theological contexts, and providing concrete opportunities for practice and skill-development. This course meets CMPR distribution requirement. This course fulfills the CMPR distribution requirement.
Limit: 15
Spring - Wed. 9-11:50 am - Course Closed
CMPR 609
Preaching in the Congregation: An Introduction to the Pastoral Practice of Preaching
Students will develop a beginning theology of preaching as a pastoral practice and will have several opportunities to try their hand at it. Attention will also be paid to preaching relative to other pastoral practices, as well as to the preacher’s vocation, authority, personality, and life of faith. Limit: 12.
Fall - Course Closed
CMPR 609F
Preaching in the Congregation: An Introduction to the Pastoral Practice of Preaching
An introduction to preaching in the context of the ordinary life of a Christian congregation. Students will develop a working theology of preaching and will have several opportunities to try their hand at it. Particular attention will be paid throughout to the place of preaching relative to other pastoral practices—e. g., worship, formation, mission, pastoral care. This course fulfills the CMPR distribution requirement.
Limit 15
Fall - Thursday 6:00 - 8:50 p.m.
CMPR 622
Thematic Preaching
Thematic Preaching provides instruction and experience in the preparation and delivery of sermons while nurturing growth in the preacher and highlighting the many sources that inform, inspire and challenge preaching in Unitarian Universalist ministries. Each class will consist of didactic material, consideration of required reading, class discussion and sermon deliveries and reviews. All grades will be SAT/UNSAT unless otherwise requested. Grading will be based on growth in preaching preparation and presentation, on class participation, and on written assignments. Limit: 12. This course fulfills the CMPR distribution requirement.
Fall - Course Closed
CMPR 625
Holistic Preaching
The focus of this course is a holistic approach to preaching that explores various methods and theories of sermon development and construction, and examines issues around the formation of preachers. This is an experiential learning course that will utilize the following modes of learning in order to develop and enhance our preaching abilities: lectures, class discussion, videos of notable preachers, small group dialogues, writing exercises, in-class preaching with feedback sessions, and movement and voice exercises. Limit: 12.
Fall - Course Closed
CMPR 625
Holistic Preaching
The focus of this course is a holistic approach to preaching that explores various methods and theories of sermon development and construction, and examines issues around the formation of preachers. This is an experiential learning course that will utilize the following modes of learning in order to develop and enhance our preaching abilities: lectures, class discussion, videos of notable preachers, small group dialogues, writing exercises, in-class preaching with feedback sessions, and movement and voice exercises. Limit: 12.
Spring - Monday, 2:00 – 4:50 p.m. CLOSED
CMPR 722S
Thematic Preaching
Thematic Preaching provides instruction and experience in the preparation and delivery of sermons while nurturing growth in the preacher and highlighting the many sources that inform, inspire and challenge preaching in Unitarian Universalist ministries. Each class will consist of didactic material, consideration of required reading, class discussion and sermon deliveries and reviews. All grades will be SAT/UNSAT unless otherwise requested. Grading will be based on growth in preaching preparation and presentation, on class participation, and on written assignments. This course fulfills the CMPR distribution requirement.
Limit: 12
Spring - Monday 2 - 4:50 pm
CMPR 730F
The Jazz of Preaching
Reverend Dr. K. Jones An exploration of preaching soul and style through the music of jazz. Special emphasis will be placed on the musical/sermonic contributions of Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald.
Limit 15
Fall - Thursday 2:00 – 4:50 p.m.
CMWO 630
Vital Signs: Baptism and Communion in the Worship of the Church
An introduction to the history, diverse theologies, and practice of these foundational rites of the Christian church, with an emphasis on their formative, ethical and pastoral dimensions. Students will have opportunities to practice all the aspects of presiding and administering these ordinances/sacraments, as well as to explore creative possibilities for their celebration in the local church. Limit: 24
Winter - January 4-15, 9:00 a.m. – noon
CMWO 662
Christian Worship, Christian Music
A critical overview of Christian worship in theological perspective, including anthropological, historical, and practical approaches. With an eye to liturgical leadership, we will press the deceptively simple questions: What is Christian worship? What is it for? Limit: 35.
Fall - Wednesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
CMWO 662F
Christian Worship, Christian Music
A critical overview of Christian worship in theological perspective, including anthropological, historical, and practical approaches. With an eye to liturgical leadership, we will press the deceptively simple questions: What is Christian worship? What is it for? This course fulfills the CMWO distribution requirement.
Limit: 35
Fall - Wednesday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
CMWO 664 [P3]
Seasons of Celebration: Worshiping through the Liturgical Year
Professor-Practitioner Program (P3) designated course for field education students. Limit: 8.
Spring - Monday, 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
CMWO 664/864
Seasons of Celebration: Worshiping through the Liturgical Year
An introduction to worship shaped by the seasons and festivals of the Christian calendar, with attention to the power of sacred cycles to form congregations in a distinctive pattern of Christian life. Limit: 24.
Spring - Monday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m. CLOSED
CMWO 664/864S
Seasons of Celebration: Worshiping through the Liturgical Year
An introduction to worship that is shaped by the seasons and festivals of the Christian calendar, with particular attention to the power of sacred cycles to form congregations in a distinctive pattern of Christian life. In addition to historical, biblical and theological considerations, there will be opportunities for students to create and lead a worship service for one or more of the liturgical seasons. This course fulfills the CMWO distribution requirement.
Limit 24
Spring - Monday 6–8:50 pm - Course Closed
CMWO 745W
Christian Rituals at the Time of Death
In this intensive course students will examine and practice selected Christian rituals associated with the end of life—e. g. prayers and ritual actions with and for the dying and their families, funerals and memorial services, graveside services and committals. It is preferred but not required that students will have already completed a general introduction to Christian worship. This course fulfills the CMWO distribution requirement.
Limit 24
Winter - January 5-16, 9:00 – 12:00 noon
DMIN 801
Seminar on Scholarship in Ministry
This course will facilitate the integration of theory and practice in the work of ministry, offering initial guidance in preparing for both coursework and final project.
Fall - Tuesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
DMIN 801F
Introductory Doctor of Ministry Seminar: Scholarship in Ministry
This seminar will introduce Doctor of Ministry students to theoretical approaches to the study of ministry. Students will work together to form research questions, construct theoretical frameworks, build bibliographies, and compose reviews of literature. This course is required for all D.Min. students.
Fall - Tuesday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
DMIN 802
Seminar on Theological Research
This course prepares graduate candidates to write a project, thesis or research of substance and quality in an area of theological studies. The seminar focuses on understandings, methods, processes, and procedures that are necessary to create publishable quality theological work.
Fall - Tuesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
DMIN 802F
Doctor of Ministry Seminar: Theological Research
Analysis of elements of advanced theological research, and preparation of proposals for projects, theses and research in doctoral and masters programs. This course is required for all D.Min. students.
Fall - Tuesday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
DMIN 803
Seminar on Ministry Writing
This is a writing seminar where Doctor of Ministry students present their writing to seminar members. Depending on the number of students, each member normally presents three to four times. Prerequisite: completion of DMIN 801 and 802.
Fall - Tuesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
DMIN 803F
Doctor of Ministry Seminar: Writing
This course is designed for Doctoral students who are in the process of integrating their coursework for their D.Min. projects. This particular D.Min. seminar will draw upon themes of forgiveness and reconciliation to help students ground their work in a faith perspective. We will focus on representative contemporary theologians
who are dealing with these themes from different perspectives. We will be looking at the implications of their thinking for constructing pastoral theologies that can illumine the particular questions and themes that class members are engaging in their projects. This course is required for all D.Min. students.
Fall - Tuesday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
ETHI 601
Introduction to Christian Ethics
This core course surveys the history, problems, and principal figures of Christian ethics within the context of Western philosophical and theological traditions. It will also investigate and critically analyze the following prominent types of Christian thought concerning moral decisions: Christian realism, faith and culture; Christian feminist/Womanist ethics; and Christian virtue. Another area of interest that will be pursued is contemporary methodologies of social ethical analysis. The last segment of the course will focus on using the tools of Christian ethics to analyze one or two contemporary social problems.
Fall - Tuesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
ETHI 601
Introduction to Christian Ethics
This core course surveys the history, problems, and principal figures of Christian ethics within the context of Western philosophical and theological traditions. It will also investigate and critically analyze the following prominent types of Christian thought concerning moral decisions: Christian realism, faith and culture; Christian feminist/Womanist ethics; and Christian virtue. Another area of interest that will be pursued is contemporary methodologies of social ethical analysis. The last segment of the course will focus on using the tools of Christian ethics to analyze one or two contemporary social problems.
Summer - May 31 - June 11, 9:00 a.m. - noon; there will be an additional class session on June 8, 4:00 – 6:50 pm
ETHI 601F
Introduction to Christian Ethics
This course surveys the history, problems and principal figures of Christian ethics within the context of the Western philosophical tradition.
Limit: 30
Fall - Wednesday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
ETHI 602 [EL]
Introduction to Christian Ethics
This core course offers an introductory survey of sources and major works in ethics in the Christian tradition, from biblical texts to contemporary authors and themes. Students will be able to see the cultural and theological forces that have shaped Christian ethics throughout the tradition, and will be able to relate the tools of the tradition to current ethical challenges in different cultural contexts at both the ecclesial and public level. Limit: 25
Spring - ELearning course
ETHI 602S
Introduction to Christian Social Ethics
This course surveys the history, problem and principal figures of Christian ethics within the context of the Western
philosophical tradition. It will investigate and critically analyze the following prominent types of Christian thought concerning moral decisions: Christian realism, Christian responsibility/relationality; Christian feminist/womanist ethics; Christian virtue; and ethics of exclusion and embrace. The last segment of the course will focus on using the tools of Christian ethics to analyze some contemporary social problems.
Limit: 30
Spring - Wed. 2-4:50 pm
ETHI 640J [EL]
Introduction to Christian Ethics: Principles and Virtues
This course is an introduction to key theories, methods, figures, and terms of Christian ethics. Most readings are in the primary works of significant authors in the field. Both contemporary and historical writers are included. This course provides a grounding in Christian virtue theory and moral principles, and integrates readings with personal reflections on ethics. The course is on-line May 25 - July 3, 2009. The final paper is due August 21, 2009.
Limit 25
Internet access required.
Summer - Elearning course - May 26 - July 3.
ETHI 706F
The Theological and Economic Ethics of Globalization
This course is designed for students who want to develop the theological skills, language, and insights necessary to address the emerging global civilization and discern where God is (not) accomplishing something new in its various various spheres. Max Stackhouse in over 40 years has developed a form of public theology and economic ethics that addresses a world connected by trade, technology, ideas about democracy and human rights, and a host of other interdependencies. His is a theology that seeks to speak of God and God’s will in ways that fully engage the academic disciplines of the social sciences and aspires to be morally effective in the marketplace of goods and services. In studying his thoughts and methods students will come to see how theology is indispensable to the analysis of human condition and historical ethos and how theology either enhances or inhibits economic possibilities. We will also examine the works of other scholars who put his thought in the context of other views of public theology and ethics. Prerequisites: ETHI 601 or 602, and THEO 611 and 614. This course fulfills an upper-level ETHI requirement or TMPL requirement, or the JUST requirement.
Fall - Wednesday 6:00 - 8:50 p.m.
ETHI 711W
The Crisis on Wall Street and the Church on Main Street
A Theological and Ethical Exploration of the Current Financial Crisis This course will explore the economics behind the crisis and how the crisis will affect the church and its mission. The course will provide some economic literacy in order to understand the crisis and then explore its theological, ethical and pastoral dimensions. Throughout the week, the course will focus on the impact of this crisis on the local church.
Winter - January 19-23 intensive; 9:00am-noon; 1:00 - 4:00pm
ETHI 714
Politics and the Pulpit
A course for upper level students that will explore the varied dimensions of a justice-engaged ministry, with a particular eye to developing skills for presenting one’s faith effectively in the public arena. Course will include: interaction with practicing pastors and congregations who have been involved in controversial issues, advocacy in the media and the halls of government, implications for non-profit IRS status, and the dynamics of pastoral care in the midst of prophetic action. Well-known public figures and faith-based advocacy groups will be featured. Students will be required to present themselves effectively on social justice issues both orally and in writing, including the contexts of worship, print and in electronic media. Prerequisite: Field Education and at least THEO 611 or 614, or ETHI 601 or 602. Limit: 15. Students must contact President Carter for permission and more information before registering: .
Fall - Tuesday, 2:00 – 4:50 p.m.
ETHI 716
Philosophy and Ethics of Life
The course investigates the nature and depth, dynamics and meaning, necessity and freedom of life. Our inquiry will cover the following dimensions of life: biology (emergence); environment (the sensual nature and human existence/cognition); mysteries of love (eros to the world, interpersonal spheres, and the sacred); human excellence (unfolding of potentialities), culture (the substance and form of group’s creativity), and logic of civilization (non-zero-sum human cooperation). This multidisciplinary inquiry is geared to engender a balanced conceptual and concrete grasp of life in its manifold manifestations so as to equip students with crucial insights for ethics, pastoral care, spirituality, Christology, public and political theologies, human capabilities for certain kind of transcendence, and economic development.
Spring - Tuesday, 2:00 – 4:50 p.m.
ETHI 719
Social Teaching of the Christian Churches
The social teaching of the churches is meant to be the vehicle through which the churches communicate their doctrine to society as it relates to matters affecting the human community and human relations. This course is a close study of the social teaching of various denominations and the World Council of Churches. In developing their social doctrine, the churches are attentive to the ‘sign of the times’ the political, economic, cultural, and social circumstances affecting the human community. All of these elements will come to play in understanding the development of the documents of different traditions and how these can be used today to approach the ethical challenges facing our communities. Prerequisite: ETHI 601 or 602. Limit: 25.
Spring - Thursday, 2:00 – 4:50 p.m.
ETHI 719 [P3]
Social Teaching of the Christian Churches
Professor-Practitioner Program (P3) designated course for field education students. Limit: 8.
Spring - Thursday, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
ETHI 719F
Social Teaching of the Christian Churches
The course will examine and critique a number of models of how the church relates to both culture and the state. Focus will be given to the documents of Catholic social teaching, documents from the World Council of Churches, and each student’s own traditions. Particular attention will be given to thematic, historical, and social developments
in the literature on the social teaching of the church. Prerequisite: ETHI 601 or 602. This course fulfills the upper-level ETHI requirement or the Engaging Oppressions renewal area.
Fall - Friday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
ETHI 719F [P3]
Social Teaching of the Christian Churches
The Reverend Dr. Suchocki-Brown Professor-Practitioner Program (P3) designated course for field education students.
Limit: 8
Fall - Friday 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
ETHI 726/826
Ethics and Politics of African-Americans
This course explores the social ethics and spirituality of African-Americans by critically analyzing the thoughts and practices of black leaders and intellectuals. Every year we will choose to concentrate on the works of a leading representative black theologian or ethicist to guide our exploration. This year our intellectual guide is eminent ethicist, Peter Paris. He has woven together valuable lessons from history, penetrating insights from social and religious situations, liberatory thoughts of black theology, and the methodology of Aristotelian virtue ethics to offer us a rich tapestry of ethico-spirituality that has sustained vibrant African-American life in the United States. Thus, to engage with Paris’ work is to gain a veritable lens that seeks to critically comprehend the virtues, capabilities, tensions, and dialectics that have formed and in-formed African-American social ethics and the black church. This course meets the Ethics and Social Justice distributional requirement.
Spring - Wednesday, 9:00 – 11:50 a.m.
ETHI 742S
Christian Approaches to the Use of Force: Pacifism, Realism, and Just War Theory
This course will detail the historical and theological development of Christian approaches to the use of force in the three main strands of pacifism, realism, and just war theory. Emphasis will be given to how these approaches interacted during major world events of the 20th
century: WWII, the Cold War, and the main challenges of the 1990s (failed governments - Yugoslavia and Somalia; ethnic cleansing and genocide - Rwanda; humanitarian intervention). Students will be asked to engage the three approaches in analyzing contemporary scenarios: war on terror, Iraq, Sudan, Iran.
This course fulfills the upper-level ETHI requirement or the Engaging Oppressions renewal area.
Spring - Thursday 9-11:50 am
Prerequisites: ETHI 601 or 602ETHI 744/844
Economics and Ethics
This course is structured to provide students with the basic awareness and understanding of economic theories, issues, and practices as they intersect with faith and ethics in all spheres of life. Students will acquire the basic concepts of economics in ways that would equip them to not only grasp the economic foundations of Christian thinking about moral decisions, but also prepare them to minister to professionals, business executives, and corporate leaders in a globalizing world. The course will also help students to respond to one of the major challenges in the marketplace: how can we develop frameworks and models to enable business executives live ethically and faithfully in the complex and pluralistic corporate world?
Fall - Wednesday, 2:00 – 4:50 p.m.
ETHI 744/844F
Economics and Ethics
This course is structured to provide students with the basic awareness and understanding of economic ideas, issues, and practices as they intersect with faith and ethics in all spheres of life. It will teach students the basic concepts of economics, finance, accounting, and business decision-making in ways that would equip them to not only grasp the economic foundations of Christian thinking about moral decisions, but also prepare them to minister to professionals, business executives, and leaders in a globalizing world. The course will also help students to respond to one of the major challenges in the marketplace: how can we develop frameworks and models to enable business executives live ethically and faithfully in the complex and pluralistic corporate world? This course fulfills the upper-level ETHI requirement, or a TMPL requirement.
Fall - Tuesday 9:00 - 11:50 a.m.
ETHI 770/870
Public Theology in the 20th century: Reinhold Niebuhr, Dorothy Day, Jim Wallis, and Billy Graham
The public witness of Christian leaders has been a contested matter throughout the history of the U.S. While the Christian churches have a specific mission and call to make public the witness of their faith, there is little agreement on the appropriate shape of such public engagement. Through the examination of four prominent public Christian figures of the 20th century, this course seeks to arrive at some clarity as to the role of the churches in the public square. These figures represent a diversity of positions - some of the quite opposite each other - but all grounded in the Christian tradtion. Prerequisite: ETHI 601 or 602.
Fall - Thursday, 2:00 – 4:50 p.m.
ETHI 776
Moaning, Singing, and Shouting: Spiritual Longing and Enlightenment in African American Music
An exploration of spiritual desire and theological/ethical discovery in Spirituals, Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Soul, and Rap music. Special emphasis will be placed on the spiritual journeys and theological contributions of Mary Lou Williams, Mahalia Jackson, John Coltrane, Billie Holiday, and Sam Cooke.
15
Spring - Thursday 9-11:50 am
ETHI 789-790
Directed Study in Ethics
Hours and course credits to be arranged. Permission of professor required.
M.A. and M.Div. candidates only.
Fall -
Key to Course Listings
| Key | Description |
|---|---|
| EL | "EL" following a course description indicates an E-Learning course. |
| F | "F" following a course number indicates a course offered during Fall semester. |
| S | "S" following a course number indicates a course offered during Spring semester. |
| W | "W" following a course number indicates a course offered during Winter Session in January. |
| J | "J" following a course number indicates a course offered during June. |
| Y |
"Y" following a course number indicates a yearlong course. Students must register each semester for year-long courses. |
This listing is subject to change. Continue to check the school's eb site, www.ants.edu, for current information about course listings, times and dates. All courses, including Church and Ministry Department courses, are now offered for 3 credits. Only students following the pre-2001 M.Div. curriculum may elect to take courses for other than 3 credits. Unless otherwise noted, courses are generally limited to 55 students.
Levels of Instruction
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| 500 | Language courses or introductory courses meeting departmental requirements for either the M.Div. or the M.A. degree. |
| 600 | Meet departmental requirements for the M.Div., unless otherwise indicated, or program requirements for the M.A. |
| 700 | For advanced M.Div. and M.A. students with either background in an area or prerequisites completed. These courses meet some departmental upper-level elective requirements for the M.Div. |
| 800 | Primarily for D.Min. and S.T.M. students, although a limited number of seniors with the appropriate background may enroll with the instructor's permission. |
Dual-numbered courses-e.g., [HIST 725/825] - indicate courses that serve more than one level. Students should register for the level appropriate to their program needs.
Example: an M.Div. or M.A. student would register for HIST 725, but an S.T.M. or D.Min. student would register for HIST 825.
