Fall 2004/Pasadena
PM856/556
Anderson
PM856/556: THE SHAPE OF PRACTICAL THEOLOGY. Ray S. Anderson.
DESCRIPTION:
- This seminar--a required methods seminar for all Ph.D. students in
Practical Theology--will be offered as a graduate level seminar, with limited
enrollment of Master's level students as approved by the professor. The seminar
will introduce students to recent studies of practical theology and examine its
relation to other theological disciplines. The hermeneutical implications of a
praxis based theology of ministry will be considered along with reflection upon
the normative sources for practical theology from the perspective of engagement
in God's mission in both the church and the world. A Trinitarian approach to
spirituality, community, and vocation will form a vital part of these
explorations.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
- Advanced students will develop an understanding of what is
distinctive about Practical Theology and the range of methodologies appropriate
to it. This will yield critical and constructive criteria for priorities in
ministry at the level of spiritual resources, church renewal, and servant
leadership.
SEMINAR FORMAT:
- The seminar will meet for three hours once a week, with a
combination of lecture and student presentations.
REQUIRED READING:
- Expanded Lecture Syllabus, 150 pp. Available from the bookstore.
- Anderson, Ray S. The Shape of Practical Theology. InterVarsity
Press, 2001, 328 pp.
- __________. Spiritual Caregiving as Secular Sacrament: A Practical
Theology for Professional Caregivers. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers,
2003, 300 pp.
- Browning, Don S. A Fundamental Practical Theology: Descriptive and
Strategic Proposals. Fortress Press, 1991, 293 pp.
- Forrester, Duncan B. Truthful Action: Explorations in Practical
Theology. Edinburgh: T. & T. Clark, 2000, 220 pp.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Masters level students will be required to write a seminar paper of
20 to 25 pages, plus a 5-6 page written review of a book from a selected book
list. Students in the 800-level seminar will be required to make seminar
presentations and to write a major seminar paper of 30 to 40 pages, plus a 5-6
page written review of a book from a selected book list. All students will be
able to select from a variety of topics in the area of practical theology, and
doctoral students will be able to develop papers related to major dissertation
research and writing.
PREREQUISITES:
- Master's level students must have completed a minimum of 48 quarter
units of course work and have permission of the professor.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
- Elective.
FINAL EXAMINATION:
- None.