Spring 2013/Fuller Online
SP526
Carter
SP526: ANGLICAN SPIRITUALITY. Grayson Carter.
DESCRIPTION: Spiritual practices emerge out of spiritual traditions which, in turn, develop under distinctive historical conditions. In this course we will explore the structures of Anglican spirituality. This diverse body of traditions embraces active, contemplative, and “mixed” forms of spirituality, as well as apostolic and monastic spirituality, drawn primarily (but not exclusively) from the Western (Roman Catholic) and Protestant traditions. The spiritual practices of each tradition will be examined through both primary and secondary readings, class lectures and online discussions, with an eye to their application in the contemporary church. In addition, these traditions will be set in conversation with both ancient and contemporary spiritual traditions from the worldwide church. All this will be examined in the context of the history and theology of Christian spirituality.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Spirituality has played a central role in the Anglican tradition since the time of the Reformation. This course will explore the nature of that spirituality and encourage students to engage in various spiritual practices and disciplines designed to nurture others, both individually and in community.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: This course has four principal objectives. The student will: (1) come to understand the historical background and nature of Anglican spirituality; (2) become conversant with the principle authors and texts within the Anglican spiritual tradition; (3) explore and experience various spiritual disciplines and practices from this tradition; and, (4) develop knowledge and skills that may be used to lead others in spiritual practices that have been drawn from the Anglican tradition.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will be conducted online using a 10-week lesson program aligned with Fuller’s academic calendar. Each week, students and the instructor will interact with the material and each otherthrough class lectures, required readings, threaded discussions and other assignments. Lectures and (some) readings for each lesson will be available online.
REQUIRED READING:
Richard H. Schmidt, Glorious Companions: Five Centuries of Anglican Spirituality. Eerdmans, 2002. ISBN: 978-0802822222, Pub.price $29.00 [360 pp.].
Vicki L. Black, Welcome to Anglican Spiritual Traditions. Morehouse, 2011. ISBN: 978-0819223685, Pub.price $14.00 [144 pp.].
The Book of Common Prayer (1662/1978) [selections provided.
Primary Sources [provided].
RECOMMENDED READING: A complete list of recommended reading will be available in the syllabus.
ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:
Regular/active and relevant online participation is required (40%). 40 hours.
Completion of required readings (20%). (Signed documentation required at the end of term.) 50 hours.
Two 10-15-page research/analysis papers (20% x 2 = 40%). 50 hours.
PREREQUISITES: None.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.
FINAL EXAMINATION: No.