Spring 2013/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 both to those who have been abused and to those who have abused others.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Abuse is not rare. A conservative estimate would be that 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.
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.
COURSE FORMAT: Course includes lectures, class discussions, and case-study analysis. The class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions.
REQUIRED READING:
Herman, Judith L. Trauma and Recovery. Basic Books, 1991. ISBN: 978-0465087303, Pub.price $17.50 [304 pp. assigned].
Kroeger, Catherine Clark, and Nancy Nason-Clark. No Place for Abuse: Biblical and Practical Resources to Counteract Domestic Violence. InterVarsity Press, 2001. ISBN: 978-0830838387, Pub.price $17.00 [249 pp. assigned].
VanVonderen, Jeff, Dale, Ryan, and Juanita Ryan. Soul Repair: Rebuilding a Spiritual Life. InterVarsity Press, 2008. ISBN: 978-0830834976, Pub.price $17.00 [191 pp. assigned].
Additional relevant reading to make a combined total of 1200 pages. A list of recommended books will be available in the syllabus.
ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:
Attendance & participation is required (10%).
Short personal & theological reflection on each book read (15%).
A 2-3 page paper in the form of a letter to a congregational member struggling with a particular biblical text (details in syllabus; 35%).
A 6-8 page theological reflection 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.