Fall 2005/Pasadena
PM856/556
Anderson

PM856/556: THE SHAPE OF PRACTICAL THEOLOGY. Ray S. Anderson.


DESCRIPTION: This is a required methods seminar for all PhD students in Practical Theology, a graduate level seminar also offered to a limited number 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.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: There are three primary course objectives related to learning outcomes: First, that students are able to provide a theological basis for practical theology as a discipline of academic study as well as a praxis of ministry. Second, that students acquire critical skills in theological reflection on ministry through teaching case situations in a seminar setting. Third, that students discover and learn to use a clearly articulated method for doing practical theology in the context of congregational life and ministry.

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:

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, 1991 (293 pp.).

Buxton, Graham. Dancing in the Dark: The Privilege of Participating in the Ministry of Christ. Paternoster, 2001 (304 pp.).

Forrester, Duncan B. Truthful Action: Explorations in Practical Theology. Edinburgh: T. & T. Clark, 2000 (220 pp.).

Expanded Lecture Syllabus (150 pp.).

COLLATERAL READING:
Anderson, Ray S. The Soul of Ministry: Forming Leaders for God's People. Westminster John Knox, 1997 (256 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.