DESCRIPTION: This course seeks to explore the experiences and contributions of
women in the church from the post-apostolic period though the twentieth
century, together with the theologies and presuppositions that sometimes
supported but more often discouraged their full participation in church and
religious life. It is highly desirable (but not required) that students have
some basic orientation to the world and thought of the patristic and
Reformation periods, such as would be acquired in CH500/1 and CH502/3, but this
course does not otherwise presuppose any acquaintance with church history,
women's studies, or gender issues.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students who successfully complete this course will have
demonstrated (1) familiarity with the central theological doctrines and
historical developments that have shaped the shifting attitudes and practices
of the Christian church with respect to women throughout its history (attained
through lectures and readings); (2) an ability to analyze and articulate the
historical significance and theological arguments of the Christian past
(attained through close readings of selected primary sources and contemporary
historical critics, along with written responses); (3) critical appreciation
for the theologies, worldviews, and experiences of women and men throughout
this history (attained through lectures and group discussions); and (4) an
ability to reflect on the perennial nature of these doctrinal and
ecclesiastical controversies over gender (attained through lectures,
discussion, and writing assignments).
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: While the role and ministry of women in the church has
sometimes been seen as a recent and even faddish concern, this course will
acquaint students with the remarkable degree to which gender has always played
a role in the church's practice of theology and ministry. Class discussions and
reflection on readings will help students discover why a historical perspective
is essential in order to evaluate the significance of gender issues for
theology and church today.
COURSE FORMAT: Weekly three-and-a-half-hour meetings for lectures and
discussions.
REQUIRED READING: