DESCRIPTION:

This course is a survey of the contemporary practice of Christian worship and the use of the arts in various church traditions, in their theological and historical settings. Special attention will be given to the way churches have made use of the arts and popular culture in developing (or subverting) worship that is biblical. Focus will be both theological and practical, leading to student development of worship experiences that are creative and theologically sensitive.

The contemporary revival of Christian worship makes widespread use of the arts in many forms. But often these arts are used without reference to their historical and theological contexts, or that conflict with biblical themes. This course will encourage biblical and theological reflection in developing worship that embraces the arts in appropriate ways.

The course will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions for lecture and discussion of reading materials. Additionally, students will make two visits (preferably in teams) to worship experiences of traditions other than their own. Students will also participate in the planning and execution of a worship service designed for Fuller Chapel.

Dyrness, William A. Visual Faith: Art, Theology, & Worship in Dialogue. Baker Academic, 2001.

Farley, Edward. Deep Symbols: Their Postmodern Effacement and Reclamation. Trinity, 1996.

Saliers, Don. Worship as Theology: A Foretaste of Glory Divine. Abingdon, 1994.

Schmit, C. J. Too Deep for Words: A Theology of Liturgical Expression. Westminster/John Knox, 2002.

Spencer, Jon Michael. Sing a New Song: Liberating Black Hymnody. Fortress, 1995.

Walton, Janet. Art and Worship: A Vital Connection. The Liturgical Press (Michael Glazier), 1988.

Black, Kathy. Worship Across Cultures. Abingdon, 1998.

Bonds, Fiona. The Arts in Your Church: A Practical Guide. Piquant Press, 2001.

Goens, Linda. Praising God Through the Lively Arts. Abingdon, 1999.

Hurtado, Larry. At the Origins of Christian Worship. Eerdmans, 1998.

Spinks, Bryan D. and Iaian R. Torrance, eds. To Glorify God: Essays on Modern Reformed Liturgy. Eerdmans, 1999.

Walker, Wyatt Tee. "Somebody's Calling my Name": Black Music and Social Change. Judson, 1979.

Students will be responsible for all lectures and readings, and will bring reflection questions on the readings to each class. They will write theological reflection papers (5-6 pp each) on the two required church visits; a theological reflection paper on the planning and execution of the class chapel experience (5-6 pages); and a final paper (12-14 pp) that includes the program, rationale, and theological reflection for a service of worship designed by the student for his or her own worship community. Each paper should show reflection on issues raised in class lectures and readings.

Elective. Meets requirements for Master of Arts in Worship, Theology, and the Arts degree and the M. Div. Concentration in Worship, Theology, and the Arts; can fulfill a "Theology and Practice" course in the Master of Arts in Theology: Theology and Arts Format degree.