Spring 2014/Pasadena

CN553

Ryan

CN553: PASTORAL CARE AND ABUSE (4 Units). 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.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: There are three objectives for this course, (1) that students will become well-informed about the dynamics of abuse and trauma; (2) that students will understand the biblical and theological resources that might assist them to develop effective ministry to people struggling with these issues; and (3) that students will become better able to envision and develop effective recovery ministry strategies.

COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions. Course includes lectures, class discussions, and case-study analysis.

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].

Jantz, Gregory L. Healing the Scars of Emotional Abuse. Revell, 2009. ISBN: 978-0800733230, Pub. Price $13.39 [300 pp. assigned].

Johnson, David, and Jeff VanVonderen. The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse. Bethany House, 2005. ISBN: 978-0764201370, Pub. Price $13.34 [240 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:

  1. Attendance & participation is required (10%).

  2. Short personal & theological (250-300 word)reflection on each book read (15%).

  3. 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%).

  4. 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.

FINAL EXAMINATION: None.


NOTE: This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. Textbook prices are set by publishers and are subject to change.