Spring 2005/Pasadena
GM505
Branson/Peace
GM505: FOUNDATIONS FOR MINISTRY 3 (Wednesday evening section).
Mark Lau
Branson and Richard Peace.
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.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
- 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.
COURSE FORMAT:
- 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 Wednesday evenings: March 30, April 27, May 25.
REQUIRED READING:
- Branson, Mark Lau. Course Reader for GM 505.
- Peace, Richard. Spiritual Traditions (small group discussion
guide).
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Regular attendance and participation in all seminars and small groups.
- Read Course Reader and small group discussion guide.
- Participate in testing (the Strong Interest Inventory; there is a cost for
testing and interpretation.)
- Write a reflection paper on a ministry vision for the future (5 pages).
- Submit small group reflections as composed following each session (2-3
pages).
PREREQUISITES:
- GM504.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
- 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.
FINAL EXAMINATION:
- None.