Spring 2014/Fuller Online

SP508

Thacker

SP508: THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES (4 Units). Kimberly Thacker.

DESCRIPTION: With the renewal of interest in spiritual formation there has also been a new interest in the classic disciplines that promote spiritual growth. The aim of this course is to discuss spiritual disciplines in the context of the ancient understanding of the spiritual journey and in the light of various Christian spiritualities that have flourished down through the ages.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Upon the successful completion of the course, students will have; (1) developed an initial understanding of the nature of the spiritual journey and how the spiritual disciplines assist in our growth; (2) explored and experienced various spiritual disciplines and practices and been equipped with resources to continue learning; (3) developed a deeper understanding of one particular spiritual discipline, school of spirituality, or person who is a model of spirituality; (4) developed entry-level skills as a Minister of Spiritual Formation and resources for furthering understanding and practice; and (5) experienced a silent retreat.

COURSE FORMAT: This course will be conducted online on a ten-week schedule aligned with Fuller’s academic calendar. Students are required to interact with the material, with each other, and with the instructor regularly through online discussions, reading, and other assignments that promote active learning.

REQUIRED READING:

Allen, Diogenes. Spiritual Theology. Cowley Publications, 1997. ISBN: 978-1561011308, Pub. Price $16.95 [160 pp.].

Chittister, Joan. Wisdom Distilled from the Daily: Living the Rule of St. Benedict Today. HarperCollins, 1991. ISBN: 978-0060613990, Pub. Price $13.99 [200 pp.].

Foster, Richard. Celebration of Discipline. Rev. ed. HarperOne, 1988. ISBN: 978-0060628390, Pub. Price $24.99 [200 pp.].

Peace, Richard. Contemplative Bible Reading. NavPress, 1998. ISBN: 978-1576831083, Pub. Price $9.99 [100 pp.].

__________. Meditative Prayer. NavPress, 1998. ISBN: 978-0891099018, Pub. Price $8.99 [100 pp.].

Sire, James. Learning to Pray Through the Psalms. InterVarsity Press, 2006. ISBN: 978-0830833323, Pub. Price $15.00 [215 pp.].

Theibodeaux, Mark. Armchair Mystic. St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2001. ISBN: 978-0867164305, Pub. Price $13.95 [170 pp.].

Further articles assigned (available on Moodle) on specific spiritual disciplines, Christian mystics, and theology of spirituality [350 pgs.].

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:

  1. Weekly threaded discussions and other online interactive assignments (1500-2000 words per week) (35%).

  2. Reading assigned texts and completing a reading log (5%).

  3. Attendance at a silent retreat (6 hrs) plus reflection paper (6-7 pgs) (15%).

  4. Personal engagement in spiritual exercises (15 hrs) plus two reflection papers (4-5 pgs each) (25%).

  5. Research paper on an aspect of spiritual disciplines (10-12 pgs) (20%).

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets MA spirituality requirements (FSP, SP2, or SPIR).

FINAL EXAMINATION: None.


NOTE: This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. Textbook prices are set by publishers and are subject to change.