Spring 2009/Pasadena
SP508
Peace
SP508: THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES. Richard Peace.
DESCRIPTION: With the renewal of interest in Spiritual Formation there has
also been a new interest in the classic disciplines that promote spiritual
growth. The aim of this course is to discuss spiritual disciplines in the
context of the ancient understanding of the spiritual journey and in the light
of various Christian spiritualities that have flourished down through the
ages.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: The student will
- understand the nature of the spiritual journey and how the spiritual
disciplines assist in our growth;
- explore and experience various spiritual disciplines and practices;
- develop a deeper understanding of one particular spiritual discipline,
school of spirituality, or person who is a model of spirituality;
- develop skills as a Minister of Spiritual Formation;
- experience a silent retreat.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Interest in spirituality is growing both in the church
and outside the church. There is an active conversation going on in our culture
about the nature of spirituality and the process of transformation. Those
involved in ministry must be able to participate effectively in this
conversation as well as guide others as they seek to follow the spiritual way.
This course will not only explore the nature of spirituality, but will also
seek to assist students to engage in various spiritual disciplines designed to
foster the way of love.
COURSE FORMAT: A mixture of lecture, discussion, small groups, media, case
studies, and interactive dialogue. The class will meet twice weekly for
two-hour sessions. In addition, each student will participate in a one-day
silent retreat, either with the class at a local retreat center on a Friday,
9:00-3:30, or individually on a day of the student's choice.
REQUIRED READING:
- Allen, Diogenes. Spiritual Theology. Cowley Publications,
1997.
- Chittister, Joan. Wisdom Distilled from the Daily: Living the Rule of
St. Benedict Today. HarperCollins, 1991.
- Peace, Richard. Contemplative Bible Reading. NavPress, 1998.
- __________. Meditative Prayer. NavPress, 1998.
- Sire, James. Learning to Pray Through the Psalms. InterVarsity
Press, 2006.
- Theibodeaux, Mark. Armchair Mystic. St. Anthony Messenger Press,
2001.
- Choose one:
- Barton, Ruth Haley. Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our
Lives for Spiritual Transformation. InterVarsity Press, 2006.
- Or Foster, Richard. Celebration of Discipline. rev. ed.
HarperOne, 1988.
- Or Thompson, Marjorie. Soul Feast. Westminster/John Know,
1995.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Regular attendance and participation in all aspects of the course including
active involvement in a small group (15%).
- Attendance at a silent retreat plus reflection paper (15%).
- Research paper on some aspect of spirituality (10 pages) (35%).
- Personal engagement in spiritual exercises plus reflection paper (15%).
- Reading (20%).
PREREQUISITES: None.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets MA requirement in Foundational Spirituality
(FSP or SPIR).
FINAL EXAMINATION: None.
This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (1/09)