DESCRIPTION:

This seminar--a required methods seminar for all Ph.D. students in Practical Theology --will be offered as a graduate level seminar, with limited enrollment of Master's level students as approved by the professor. The seminar will introduce students to recent studies of practical theology and examine its relation to other theological disciplines. The hermeneutical implications of a praxis based theology of ministry will be considered along with reflection upon the normative sources for practical theology from the perspective of engagement in God's mission in both the church and the world. A Trinitarian approach to spirituality, community, and vocation will form a vital part of these explorations.

Advanced students will develop an understanding of what is distinctive about Practical Theology and the range of methodologies appropriate to it. This will yield critical and constructive criteria for priorities in ministry at the level of spiritual resources, church renewal, and servant leadership.

The seminar will meet for three hours once a week, Mondays, 3:00 - 5:50 p.m., with a combination of lecture and student presentations.

Anderson, Ray S. The Shape of Practical Theology. Fuller Seminary Press, 1999 (see handout of revised first 5 chapters), 305 pp.

__________. The Soul of Ministry: Forming Leaders for God's People. Westminster John Knox Press, 1997, 256 pp.

Banks, Robert. Redeeming the Routines: Bringing Theology to Life. Victor, 1993, 196 pp.

Browning, Don S. A Fundamental Practical Theology: Descriptive and Strategic Proposals. Fortress Press, 1991, 293 pp.

Heitink, Gerben. Practical Theology: History-Theory-Action Domains. Eerdmans, 1999, 324pp.

Masters level students will be required to write a seminar paper of 20 to 25 pages, plus a 5-6 page written review of a book from a selected book list. The doctorate level seminar requires seminar presentations, a major seminar paper of 30 to 40 pages, plus a 5-6 page written review of a book from a selected book list. All students will be able to select from a variety of topics in the area of practical theology.

Master's level students must have completed a minimum of 48 quarter units of course work and have permission of the professor.

M.Div. Elective.

None.