DESCRIPTION: This course will explore the relationship between theology and
music, with special emphasis on the ways that music dynamically expresses
Christian faith. It will consider issues such as using music as a lens through
which we understand theology, exploring the interaction between music and
theology in Christian traditions, the ways that music functions liturgically,
and the theologies apparent in worship songs, hymns, and sacred music.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: The course seeks the following goals for each student:
Cognitive: students will become acquainted with theological themes found in
sacred music and aware of the ways in which music functions liturgically;
Affective: deepened appreciation for the power of music to express
Christian faith and theological themes in worship; Skills: capacity to
employ theological judgment relative to the way music functions in worship, and
to select music for worship that communicates effectively.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Music is a key element of Christian worship. It can be
used to proclaim the gospel, express prayer, and speak to things too deep for
words. Understanding the way music functions theologically and liturgically is
a necessary skill related to worship planning and worship leadership.
COURSE FORMAT: The ten-week course will be a hybrid of online and in class
instruction. Students will meet once during the first week of classes for a
three-hour period (9:00 am, Friday, April 3) to become oriented to the course
and to prepare for negotiating the online portion of the class. Students will
then work online for the next five weeks doing basic readings and assignments.
Students will meet again in the sixth week of the quarter (9:00 am, Friday, May
1) for a three-hour period for lecture and reading discussion. Weeks seven and
eight continue with online assignments in preparation for an intensive two-day
seminar held during the ninth week. (The seminar will take place on Friday May
29 and Saturday May 30.) During the seminar, the instructors will lead in
lectures, discussions, and exercises teaching methodologies that will be
further explored during the remaining week of the course.
REQUIRED READING: