DESCRIPTION:

The purpose of this course is to identify and develop the central themes related to the practice of ministry. In this course, ministry is understood in its broadest New Testament sense as the service of the gospel, and therefore, as covering ordained and lay ministry, ministry in the church, and ministry in the world. Each student will be expected to work with these themes in ways that fit his or her own context and call. The emphasis in the spring quarter will be on missional formation, with a focus on understanding the world around us and developing the forms and practices of congregational outreach and leadership development. The course will use autobiography, reflection, lectures, web modeling, vocational interest testing, and small groups.

Concepts: Understanding the context of mission, including historical and social analysis; approaches, including models and practices; and theology, including missiology and "engaging the powers." Skills: Qualitative and quantitative research and interpretation. Conation: Commitment to and vision for church-based, holistic engagement with the congregation's neighborhood and world.

This course is the third part of a three-part course that is spread over the academic year. Each quarter will contain the following components: three plenary seminar sessions (taught by various faculty members), seven small group meetings, and reading/reflection. Students can register and attend either the morning or the evening section but must remain in the small group established in the fall quarter. Plenary sessions for this section will meet on three Friday mornings: April 1, April 29, May 27.

Branson, Mark Lau. Course Reader for GM 505.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Regular attendance and participation in all seminars and small groups.

2. Read Course Reader and small group discussion guide.

3. Participate in testing (the Strong Interest Inventory; there is a cost for testing and interpretation.)

4. Write a reflection paper on a ministry vision for the future (5 pages).

5. Submit small group reflections as composed following each session (2-3 pages).

GM504.

When completed along with GM503 and GM504, this meets MDiv core requirement in General Ministry (MIN 1) or the requirement in Ministry Foundations (MIN F) for other master's degrees.

None.