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.
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. The class will meet weekly for three-hour sessions
(total of 7 class sessions) plus a required weekend retreat scheduled on
January 9-11 at Mary & Joseph Retreat Center (Rancho Palos Verdes). The
cost is $150 per person (shared room, 2 nights, 6 meals) and must be paid in
full during registration.
REQUIRED READING: