Spring 2008/Pasadena
CN553
Ryan
CN553: PASTORAL CARE AND ABUSE. Dale Ryan.
DESCRIPTION: This class seeks to provide a comprehensive introduction to
abuse--sexual, emotional, physical, and spiritual. Several approaches to
understanding abuse from a theological perspective will be explored. The class
will also explore practical tools and skills needed for helpful pastoral
responses to those who have been abused.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: There are three objectives for this course. First, that
students will become well-informed about the dynamics of abuse and trauma.
Second, that students will understand the biblical and theological resources
that might assist them to develop effective ministry to people struggling with
these issues. And third, that students will become better able to envision and
develop effective recovery ministry strategies.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Abuse is not rare. Every congregational leader would
be well advised to understand that, using a conservative estimate, 25-30% of a
congregation has experienced some form of sexual trauma. When you include those
who have experienced other forms of abuse (emotional, spiritual, or physical)
the percentage of the community that has been directly impacted by abuse is
quite high. By the end of this course students will have a basic understanding
of the dynamics of abuse, be able to articulate a pastoral theology that is
well informed by the dynamics of abuse and have learned how to compassionately
minister to the unique pastoral care needs of people who have been abused.
COURSE FORMAT: Course includes lectures, class discussions and case-study
analysis. The class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.
REQUIRED READING:
- Carnes, Patrick. The Betrayal Bond: Breaking Free of Exploitive
Relationships. Health Communications, 1997.
- Herman, Judith L. Trauma and Recovery. Basic Books, 1991.
- Jantz, Gregory L. Healing the Scars of Emotional Abuse. Revell,
1995.
- Kroeger, Catherine Clark, and Nancy Nason-Clark. No Place for Abuse:
Biblical and Practical Resources to Counteract Domestic Violence.
InterVarsity Press, 2001.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Augsburger, David W. Helping People Forgive. Westminster
John Knox, 1996.
- Fossum, Merle A., and Marilyn J. Mason. Facing Shame: Families in
Recovery. Norton, 1986.
- Johnson, David, and Jeff VanVonderen. The Subtle Power of Spiritual
Abuse. Bethany House, 1991.
- Laaser, Mark, and Nancy M. Hopkins, eds. Restoring the Soul of a Church:
Healing Congregations Wounded by Clergy Sexual Misconduct. Alban Institute,
1995.
- McClure, John S., and Nancy J. Ramsey. Telling the Truth: Preaching
about Sexual and Domestic Violence. United Church Press, 1998.
- Miller, Alice. Thou Shalt Not Be Aware: Society's Betrayal of the
Child. Penguin Books, 1986.
- Miller, Dusty. Women Who Hurt Themselves. Basic Books, 1994.
- Walker, Lenore. The Battered Woman. HarperCollins, 1979.
ASSIGNMENTS: Attendance & participation is required (15%). Short (1 pg.
max.) personal & theological reflection on each book read (15%). A 3-4 page
paper in the form of a letter to a congregational member struggling with a
particular biblical text (details in syllabus; 30%) and a 10-12 page
theological response paper addressing in depth an issue related to abuse or
trauma (details in syllabus; 40%).
PREREQUISITES: None.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets the MDiv core requirement in Pastoral Care
and Counseling (MIN5). Required for MA in Recovery Ministry and MDiv
concentration in Recovery Ministry.
FINAL EXAMINATION: None.
This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (1/08)