Spring 2011/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.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND 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.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: The student will

  1. understand the nature of the spiritual journey and how the spiritual disciplines assist in our growth;

  2. explore and experience various spiritual disciplines and practices including writing a spiritual autobiography and engaging in spiritual journaling;

  3. develop a deeper understanding of one particular spiritual discipline;

  4. develop skills as a Minister of Spiritual Formation;

  5. experience a silent retreat.

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, participation in a spiritual retreat at the Immaculate Heart Sisters Retreat Center in Los Angeles on Friday, May 6, 9:00am-3:30pm, is required. There will be an additional charge of $20 for the retreat, which will be charged to your account at the time you register.

REQUIRED READING: Students are required to read 1000 pages from the required books (approx. 800 pages) plus materials related to a particular spiritual discipline.
Allen, Diogenes. Spiritual Theology. Cowley Publications, 1997. 161 pages. ISBN: 978-1561011308. Pub. Price $16.95.

Augsburger, David. Dissident Discipleship. Brazos Press, 2006. 212 pages. ISBN: 978-1587431807. Pub. Price $24.00.

Peace, Richard. Spiritual Autobiography. NavPress, 1998. 112 pages. ISBN: 978-1576831106. Pub. Price $9.99.

Theibodeaux, Mark. Armchair Mystic. St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2001. 169 pages. ISBN: 978-0867164305. Pub. Price $13.95.

Choose one:
Barton, Ruth Haley. Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation. InterVarsity Press, 2006. 168 pages. ISBN: 978-0830833337. Pub. Price #17.00.

Or Foster, Richard. Celebration of Discipline. rev. ed. HarperOne, 1988. 200 pages. ISBN: 978-0060628390. Pub. Price $24.99.

Or Thompson, Marjorie. Soul Feast. Westminster/John Know, 1995. 146 pages. ISBN: 978-0664229474. Pub. Price $16.00.

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:
  1. Regular attendance and participation in all aspects of the course including active involvement in a small group (10%)

  2. Attendance at a silent retreat plus reflection paper (10%)

  3. Research paper on a spiritual discipline (10 pages) (40%)

  4. Personal engagement in various spiritual exercises plus journal (20%)

  5. Reading (20%)

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets the following MA spirituality requirements: FSP, SP2, or SPIR.

This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (February 2011)