DESCRIPTION:

The purpose of this course is to identify and develop the central themes related to the practice of ministry. In this course, ministry is understood in its broadest New Testament sense as the service of the gospel, and therefore, as covering ordained and lay ministry, ministry in the church, and ministry in the world. Each student will be expected to work with these themes in ways that fit his or her own context and call. The emphasis in the winter quarter will be upon personal and spiritual formation, with a focus on the importance for leaders to understand and adopt practices and resources that lead to personal, relational and spiritual health. The course will use autobiography, reflection, psychological testing, and small groups.

The course will attempt to: (1) develop a deepened understanding of the nature of the leader's spiritual, personal and relational health; (2) build community among students to enhance understanding and the practice of ministry; (3) use testing for personal growth and to learn about ministry resources.

This course is the second part of a three-part course that is spread over the academic year. Each quarter will contain the following components: three plenary seminar sessions (taught by various faculty members), seven small group meetings, and reading/reflection. Students must register and attend either the morning or the evening section each quarter but can chose the other section for another quarter. However, students must remain in the small group established in the fall quarter. Plenary sessions for this section will meet on three Wednesday evenings: January 5, February 2, and March 9.

Peace, Richard. Spiritual Disciplines (small group discussion guide).

Peace, Richard. The Genius of a Small Group II: Small Group Behavior.

Course Reader.

1. Regular attendance and participation in all seminars and small groups.

2. Read discussion guide, small group book, and course reader.

3. Participate in testing (MMPI & 16PF). (The discounted cost for testing is $90.)

4. Write a spiritual autobiography with theological reflection (5 pages).

5. Reflection paper on the small group experience (2 pages).

GM503.

When completed along with GM503 and GM505, this meets M.Div. core requirement in General Ministry (MIN1) or the requirement in Ministry Foundations (MINF) for other master's degrees.

None.