DESCRIPTION: This course is about the spirituality of Henri Nouwen, with
particular focus on his approach and his person. First of all, it
is a synthesis of Nouwen's holistic approach to spiritual formation and soul
care--one that integrates spirituality, psychology, ministry, and
theology together in a seamless fashion. Secondly, it is an exploration
of Nouwen's spirituality of imperfection which he embodied throughout
his lived experience--where the journey toward perfection is through the
realities of imperfection.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: It is hoped that by the end of the
course, the student will (1) be able to understand the inward, the outward, and
the upward nature of the Christian spiritual journey and appropriate its
reality within one's own experience; (2) be able to embrace an integrated
understanding of the journeying experience that incorporates the coinherent
realities of spirituality, psychology, ministry, and theology; (3) be exposed
to Nouwen's integrative approach to the ministry of soul care and spiritual
formation; (4) be able to grasp in both theological and practical ways the true
essence of a spirituality of imperfection that Nouwen embodied throughout his
lived experience.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The course exposes us to Nouwen's integrative approach
to the ministry of spiritual formation and soul care--one that goes against the
expert-driven, individualistic, and overly specialized approach that is often
one-dimensional, hierarchical, and highly institutionalized in focus.
COURSE FORMAT: A mixture of class lectures, student report/discussion, and
small group interaction. A personal retreat (guided by selected materials on
Nouwen) is a required part of the course. The class will meet weekly for
three-and-one-half-hour sessions.
REQUIRED READING: