DESCRIPTION:

The course examines the basic structures and elements of Christian liturgy from a Reformed perspective with attention to the historical, theological, and pastoral aspects. Students are introduced to historical patterns that have shaped Christian worship; to contemporary models for liturgical reform; and to issues involved in the ministry of planning, leading, and educating for worship in local congregations. Topics include the structure of the Sunday service, the sacraments, hymnody, weddings, funerals, and the place of children in worship.

Ministry needs a thoughtful understanding of where we have come from and possibilities for the future. Students in the Reformed tradition will consider ideas that have shaped our understanding of worship and reflect on worship in the contemporary context.

This class is participatory in style. It presumes reading of the assignments before coming to class. The teaching method will combine lectures, case studies, and group discussion.

Fulghum, Robert. From Beginning to End: The Rituals of Our Lives. Ivy Books, 1995.

Murray, Andrew. With Christ in the School of Prayer. Jove Publications, 1953.

Old, Hughes O. Worship That Is Reformed According to Scripture. Abingdon, 1988.

_________. Leading in Prayer: A Workbook for Worship. Eerdmans, 1995.

White, James F. A Brief History of Christian Worship. Abingdon, 1993.

Willimon, William H. Worship as Pastoral Care. Abingdon, 1979.

Liturgical Resource of your denomination:

PCUSA -- Book of Common Worship. Westminster/John Knox, 1993 OR
Supplemental Liturgical Resources, Nos. 1-4. Westminster Press, 1984.

RCA -- Liturgy and Psalms. Eerdmans, 1968.

Disciples of Christ -- Thankful Praise: A Resource for Christian Worship. CBP Press, 1987.

Batts, Sidney F. The Protestant Wedding Sourcebook. Westminster/John Knox, 1993.

Costen, Melva W. African American Christian Worship. Abingdon, 1993.

Osbeck, Kenneth W. 101 Hymn Stories, Kregel Publications, 1982.

Pregent, Carol. When a Child Dies. Ave Maria Press, 1993.

White, James F. and Susan J. White. Church Architecture: Building and Renovating for Christian Worship. Abingdon, 1988.

1. Two midterm examinations on liturgical vocabulary, fundamentals of liturgy, and theological reflection on the worship of the Church.

2. Three participant-observer reports of Sunday services with analysis and bulletin.

3. Liturgical design with a theological rationale for Sunday worship demonstrating understanding of the student's tradition and denominational resources (12-15 pages).

4. Final Examination.

None.

Meets M. Div. core requirement in Pastoral Ministry and Theology (MIN 6).

Yes.