DESCRIPTION: Christian spirituality emerges from the intersection of the
meta-narratives of Scripture, our cultural context, our daily activities, and
the active presence of the Holy Spirit. Everyday life is full of sacramental
time and space where our existence intersects with God's gracious initiatives;
thus everyday life and Christian spirituality are deeply connected. This course
offers the opportunity to grow in an awareness and experience of this fullness
by means of academic study combined with engagement in actual practices.
Classic Christian sources and practices will be introduced and connected to
various areas of our daily existence (such as work, family and relationships,
leisure, and creation).
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: Cognitive: Clarify concepts about
Christian spirituality, gain exposure to classic sources, think through the
relationship between reflection and practice. Skills: Learn ways to engage in
several spiritual disciplines, develop the ability to see more clearly the
spiritual nature of everyday life. Affective: Gain a deeper desire to
intentionally pursue spirituality individually and corporately, an increased
sensitivity to the relationship between the mundane and the holy, a commitment
to connecting personal spirituality with physical and social concerns.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The choices we make, the perceptions we nurture, and
the practices we develop directly impact our relationship with God and our
participation in the Holy Spirit's initiatives in and around us--in our
personal lives, relationships, ministries, and broader social involvements.
With these connections in mind, this class invites congregational leaders to
tend to their own spiritual development as well as to the spiritual development
of others in their congregations.
COURSE FORMAT: This class will meet for three-hour sessions, once weekly, for
ten weeks. Class times will include lectures, individual and group exercises,
reflective discussions of materials and experiences, and guest speakers.
A half-day retreat is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 3 (8am - 12). Assignments will include readings, on-line postings, papers, and both group and
individual activities to be done outside of class time.
REQUIRED READING: