DESCRIPTION:

This class seeks to provide a comprehensive introduction to abuse--sexual, emotional, physical and spiritual. Several approaches to understanding of abuse from a theological perspective will be explored. The class will also provide practical tools and skills needed for helpful pastoral responses to those who have been abused.

Abuse is not rare. Every congregational leader would be well-advised to understand that, using a conservative estimate, 25-30% of a congregation has experienced some form of childhood sexual abuse. When you include those who have experienced other forms of abuse (emotional, spiritual or physical) the percentage of the community that has been directly impacted by abuse is quite high. By the end of this course students will have a basic understanding of the dynamics of abuse, be able to articulate a pastoral theology that is well-informed by the dynamics of abuse and have learned how to compassionately minister to the unique pastoral care needs of people who have been abused.

Course includes lectures, class discussions and case-study analysis. The class will meet weekly for three-hour sessions.

Carnes, Patrick. The Betrayal Bond: Breaking Free of Exploitive Relationships. Health Communications, 1997.

Herman, Judith L. Trauma and Recovery. Basic Books, 1991.

Jantz, Gregory L. Healing the Scars of Emotional Abuse. Revell, 1995.

McClure, John S. and Nancy J. Ramsey. Telling the Truth: Preaching about Sexual and Domestic Violence. United Church Press, 1998.

Augsburger, David W. Helping People Forgive. Westminster John Knox Press, 1996.

Fossum Merle A. and Marilyn J. Mason. Facing Shame: Families in Recovery. Norton, 1986.

Johnson, David and Jeff VanVonderen. The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse. Bethany House, 1991.

Kroeger, Catherine Clark and Nancy Nason-Clark. No Place for Abuse: Biblical and Practical Resources to Counteract Domestic Violence. InterVarsity Press, 2001.

Laaser, Mark and Nancy M. Hopkins, eds. Restoring the Soul of a Church: Healing Congregations Wounded by Clergy Sexual Misconduct. Alban Institute, 1995.

Miller, Alice. Thou Shalt Not Be Aware: Society's Betrayal of the Child. Penguin Books, 1986.

Miller, Dusty. Women Who Hurt Themselves. Basic Books, 1994.

Walker, Lenore. The Battered Woman. HarperCollins, 1979.

Attendance and participation is required (20%). Short (1 pg. max.) personal and theological responses to each book read (15%). A 10-12 page paper exploring an aspect of course content of particular interest to the student (30%) and a 10-12 page theological response paper addressing a series of practical case studies (35%). Details in syllabus.

Meets the MDiv core requirement in Pastoral Care and Counseling (MIN5). Required for MA in Recovery Ministry and MDiv concentration in Recovery Ministry.