DESCRIPTION: This is part 2 of the two part sequence. The purpose of this
course is to identify and develop central themes related to the practice of
ministry and to develop basic skills in theological reflection as a mode of
learning. In this course, ministry is understood in its broadest New Testament
sense as the service of the gospel, and therefore includes ordained and
non-ordained, paid and otherwise. Each student will be expected to work with
these themes in ways that fit his or her own context and call. During two
quarters the course will interweave the topics of congregational formation,
spiritual formation, and missional formation. All three topics will be
addressed as matters of both personal and corporate identity and agency. The
Winter quarter will give attention to matters of personal and relational
formation and address the missional formation of the church. In the small
groups, various disciplines and traditions of spiritual formation will be
engaged.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: (These outcomes apply to the two-course sequence of GM506A
and GM506B.) (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 (1) develop a deepened understanding
of the nature of ministry from a missional church perspective, (2) build
relationships among students so as to enhance understanding of the practice of
ministry, (3) explore practices of spiritual formation.
COURSE FORMAT: This course is the second of a two-part series that is spread
over two quarters. The class will meet weekly for three hours during nine weeks
of each quarter; each session will include a seminar presentation and meeting
in small groups. Small groups will also convene a five-hour retreat.
REQUIRED READING: