DESCRIPTION:

This course will bring to bear the disciplines of biblical studies, theology, and cultural anthropology on how churches can better perceive, incorporate and minister in the midst of the numerous cultures of our society. The development of "multicultural studies" will be examined in light of the gospel's call on the church. Special attention will be given to church leadership, with a heuristic foci on African-American, Hispanic-American, Asian-American and Euro-American experiences.

Biblical, historical, and theoretical studies, along with our own experiences, inform how we perceive contexts, conceive of Christian ministry, and behave as disciples and leaders in ministry. All churches in the US, especially those in urban environments, need to have a life and ministry that is faithful to the presence of peoples from various cultures. The course seeks the following goals for each student: Cognitive: Historical and theoretical knowledge about cultures and social anthropology, especially concerning the US; Affective & conative: Deepened appreciation for cultures, personal and communal responsibility and ownership regarding cultural histories, and increased commitment to overcoming racism in society and in churches and to forming multicultural relationships and churches; Skills: Culturally-informed interpretive skills regarding social histories, personal relationships, and church life.

The class will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions. Students will need to complete reading and other assignments on schedule and participate fully in class. Assignments will be the basis for class discussions, lectures, and student presentations. Class time may include guests, videos, and shorter articles. Students will also visit a worship service of a culture other than one's own.

Emerson, Michael O. and Christian Smith. Divided by Faith: Evangelical Religion and the Problem of Race in America. Oxford University Press, 2000.

Stewart, Edward and Milton Bennett. American Cultural Patterns: A Cross-Cultural Perspective. Revised edition. Intercultural Press, 1991.

Takaki, Ronald. A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America. Little, Brown & Co., 1993.

Students will select a minimum of an additional 200 pages from a bibliography provided in class.

1. Be prepared and participate in class. (20%)

2. Read assignments; keep a reading log for submission. (20%)

3. Based on Stewart & Bennett, write four 1-2 page papers synthesizing cultural comparisons and provide personal illustrations. (4 papers, 10%)

4. Write a personal "cultural autobiography" noting history, transitions in understanding and practices, the interaction of faith, identity, church, and world. Present highlights in class. (5-6 pages, 10%)

5. Participate in a group presentation on one ethnic group using Takaki. (5%)

6. Visit a worship service of a culture other than your own. Write a 2-3 page reflection paper. (10%)

7. Write a research paper (10-15 pp.) integrating required and selected readings. (25%)

8. For pursuit of an A: Read Acts, noting issues of faith, churches, and culture, and write a 4-5 page paper of observations and reflections.

Meets M. Div. core requirement in Missions (MIN 8); meets M.A. in Theology (General Format) requirement for Globalization (GLBL).