DESCRIPTION: In this course we will explore the theology and practice of worship in the Reformed tradition. Special attention will be paid to the ways in which the distinctives of Reformed theology have contributed to historic patterns of worship. The course will develop an overview of current liturgical forms and models and provide a reflective introduction to the voices that advocate more contemporary styles of worship. Special attention will be paid to the structure of the Sunday worship service, the sacraments, hymnody, weddings, funerals, and the place of children and youth in worship.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Worship is the essential act of a community of Christians. In this course we will examine how worship shapes us, our life together, our relationship to God, and our mission in the world. This course is required for preparing for ministry in the PCUSA.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course will help students explore the rich tradition of worship in the Reformed tradition; equip them to pass the ordination examination on Worship and Sacraments; lead congregations in worship; gain increased appreciation for the rich traditions of the Reformed churches.

COURSE FORMAT: This will be a participatory class, and the teacher expects that scheduled assignments will be completed before each class. The teaching methods will include lectures, case studies, and group discussions. The class will meet weekly for three-hour sessions for ten weeks.

REQUIRED READING:

Peterson, Eugene. Christ Plays in Ten Thousand Places. Eerdmans, 2005. ISBN: 0-8028-2875-2. $25.00.

Phipps, William E. William Sheppard: Congo's African American Livingstone. Geneva Press, 2002. ISBN: 0-664-50203-2. $30.00.

White, James F. A Brief History of Christian Worship. Abingdon, 1993. ISBN: 0-687-03414-0. $20.00.

Willimon, William H. Pastor: The Theology and Practice of Ordained Ministry. Abingdon, 2002. ISBN: 0-687-04532-0. $29.00.

Book of Order Presbyterian Church USA. Office of the General Assembly, 2009-2011 (available online as a free download at http://www.pcusa.org/oga/publications.htm#const). OGA-09-001. $10.00.

Liturgical Resource of your denomination:

PCUSA: Book of Common Worship. Westminster/John Knox, 1993 ISBN: 0-664-22088-6. $30.00.

RCA: Worship materials on the World Wide Web at https://www.rca.org/worship, free download.

Disciples of Christ: France, Dorothy D. Bless Us, O God. Chalice Press, 2007. ISBN: 978-0-8272-0237-5. $9.99.

1. Midterm on the fundamentals of Reformed worship

2. Submission of a journal of spiritual reflection

3. Creation of a worship service

4. A written funeral service (8-10 pages)

5. Final examination