DESCRIPTION:

The aim of this course is to provide practical experiences for students who are taking the MA in Christian Leadership, Ministry of the Laity Concentration. Students will focus especially on identifying the perceptions, dilemmas, needs and institutional cultures of lay people involved in mutual ministry in the church (GM586) or in the world (GM587). Participants will engage in a project designed to prepare them to assist lay people to deal with these aspects of their divine calling.

The practicum should help students identify the particular challenges, tasks and skills involved in the ministry of or to the laity in a congregation-based or secular context, as well as equip them to become effective resource persons to lay people fulfilling their ministry in the church and the world.

Students will spend eight hours for eight weeks in one of the above settings, i.e., a local church or secular situation (a total of 64 hours). Prior to the first visit there will be a four hour orientation (two hours with the professor and two with the project leader or mentor). At the conclusion of the assignment a debriefing/evaluative session of similar length will be held.

The student will be provided with a reading list of appropriate titles concerning lay leadership training and development. A one-page report in the form of a synopsis with theological reflective comments will be completed on each of two or three books.

Attendance at all eight sessions in the context decided upon plus the briefing and evaluation meetings. Other assignments such as reports, case studies, or reflections are to be completed as assigned by the coordinator/supervisor as well as relevant book reviews.

The location of the assignment is arranged by the student in consultation with the Professor in charge of the Ministry of the Laity concentration who acts in conjunction with the Field Education Office. All assignments are made prior to registration.

Meets core practicum in MA in Christian Leadership requirements. Each Practicum is offered only for letter grade and four units.

None.