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 focus in the
Winter quarter will be upon personal and spiritual formation, specifically the
importance for leaders to understand and adopt practices and resources that
lead to personal, relational, and spiritual health. The course will use
autobiography, reflection, psychological testing, and small groups.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: (These outcomes apply to the three-course
sequence of GM 503, 504, 505.) (1) Increased conceptual clarity concerning the
nature of ministry and the topics of congregation formation, spiritual
formation, and missional formation; (2) a basic understanding of theological
reflection and an increased commitment to the practice of personal theological
reflection concerning oneself and one's ministry; (3) participation in and
increased commitment to resources that contribute to spiritual, psychological,
and relational health; (4) participation in and commitment to the role of
accountable, mutual relationships in one's ministry; (5) perspectives that
provide assistance in a student's considerations concerning Christian ministry
and one's own possible directions.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: The course will attempt to (1) develop a deepened
understanding of the nature of the leader's spiritual, personal, and relational
health; (2) build community between students so as to enhance understanding of
the practice of ministry; (3) use testing for personal growth and to learn
about ministry resources.
COURSE FORMAT: This course is the second 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 must register and
attend either the evening or the afternoon section each quarter but can chose
the other section for another quarter. However, students must remain in the
small group established in the Fall quarter. Plenary sessions for this section
will meet on three Wednesday evenings: January 4, February 1, March 8.
REQUIRED READING: