DESCRIPTION: Spirituality has to do with receiving and participating in
avenues of relationship between ourselves and God. We can encounter the large
narratives of creation, redemption, and eschaton in the daily activities which
are in the context of cultures and societies. Some regular practices are known
to be "spiritual"--prayer, Scripture reading, worship. Additionally, our daily
activities at home, work, and play; the ways we relate to creation, world,
cultures, and neighborhood; and our interaction with media and arts are all
significant in our "spiritual" lives. 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.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Cognitive: Clarify concepts about Christian spirituality
with attention to the relationship between corporate and personal aspects.
Skills: Practice some classic disciplines, explore reflection exercises.
Affective: encourage an attentiveness to the relationship between the mundane
and the holy and a commitment to personal and corporate aspects of Christian
spirituality.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Spirituality, and the practices that promote attention
to God and participation with God's initiatives, is essential for a leader's
own life. Further, leaders need to provide experiences and resources for
others.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet for one weekly three-hour session, for ten
weeks. Class times will include lectures, individual and group exercises, and
reflective discussions of materials and experiences. Assignments will include
readings, meditation, conversations, a prayer journal, a Sabbath observance,
retreat, and reflective writing. This course is part of the Fuller-Christian
Assembly Cohort, and will meet in Eagle Rock, CA; non-cohort students need
permission of the instructor.
REQUIRED READING: