Greetings to all.
This is a blog for Students of the Illinois Great Rivers United Methodist Conference Extension Course of Study. If you are not a student or desiring to be a student, you will find this site very boring.
Please see the summary of all materials on the left side of the page here and click on the one you want to read or copy.
If you want to contact me, please use email if possible: h.sallee@mchsi.com
My phone number is 217-317-2577 if you need to call. You may also call the IGRC Conference Office and talk to Nancy.
Fall 2009 Dates are September 11-12, October 2-3, 2009 and October 23-24, November 20-21, 2009. The syllabi are below.
Thanks
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Books for Sale
**As I've been studying, I have found that I have two books called the Gospel Parallels by Burton H. Throckmorton, Jr. If someone needs it and would like to get in contact with me. It's NRSV and was printed in 1989. ISBN: 0-8407-7484-2
It's used, but in very good shape. It's not been written in and used only a few times. I'll sell it for $15, and that includes shipping. The cost for a new book is $35. My cell phone number is
309-212-2530.
Blessings,
Paulette Cott
** I have several books too many to list. Contact Charles Graul chasgraul2000@yahoo.com or 217-260-4480 cell, 217-288-9314 home or PO Box 49 Sidell, IL 61876
It's used, but in very good shape. It's not been written in and used only a few times. I'll sell it for $15, and that includes shipping. The cost for a new book is $35. My cell phone number is
309-212-2530.
Blessings,
Paulette Cott
** I have several books too many to list. Contact Charles Graul chasgraul2000@yahoo.com or 217-260-4480 cell, 217-288-9314 home or PO Box 49 Sidell, IL 61876
Saturday, March 21, 2009
414 Personal & Social Ethics
Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference
Course of Study Extension School of
Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
2121 Sheridan Road
Evanston, IL 60201
YEAR FOUR
October 23-24; November 20-21, 2009
414 Personal & Social Ethics
All classes are held at the United Methodist Conference Center
5900 S. 2nd Street – Springfield, IL 62711
Instructor: Dr. Thomas R. Logsdon, Pastor Office Phone: 815-634-8670 or 815-634-2882
Coal City United Methodist Church Home Phone: 815-634-4616
6805 E. McArdle Road E-mail: TLogsdon@aol.com
Coal City, IL 60416 Office Fax: 815-634-2314
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Email is best, but you can also reach me by phone, fax, and US Postal Service. I am more than willing to receive any assignments by
e-mail, “snail mail,” or fax for early revisions and comments.
Please keep a copy everything you give or send to me!
Assignments occasionally get lost in transit and
you don’t want to have to recreate your work.
This course is about (1) making informed decisions with integrity, (2) knowing and living out your Christian values, and (3) helping the people influences by your leadership to do the same. Together, we will analyze the biblical, theological, and experiential bases for personal, professional, and social Christian behavior, with emphasis given to the acquisition of pastoral skills for moral discernment and ethically responsible decision making and action.
A. BASIC INFORMATION
Course Objectives
To explore the Biblical and theological bases for ethical thinking, guidance, and behavior.
To survey the major approaches to ethical reasoning and incorporate them within your own thinking, guidance, and behavior.
To examine the General Rules and Social Principles of the United Methodist Church as a frame of reference for ethical decision-making, guidance, and behavior.
To explore of ways of dealing with ethical dilemmas inherent in such issues as war and peace, hunger, poverty, political tyranny, domestic violence, substance abuse, racism, AIDS, and biomedical technology.
To reflect upon case studies that challenge pastors to carefully examine their ethical response and responsibilities.
To focus on particular issues for personal and professional life that significantly impact our ministerial thinking, guidance, and behavior and affect the way we order our loves together in a covenantal relationship.
To delineate and reflect upon the basic and essential guidelines for Christian identity and moral behavior.
Books - Required
The Bible (NRSV, NIV, CEV, or TEV).
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church. Abingdon Press, 2008.
Lovin, Robin W. Christian Ethics: An Essential Guide. Abingdon Press, 2000. ISBN: 0-687-05462-1.
Miles, Rebekah L. The Pastor as Moral Guide. Fortress Press, 1999. ISBN: 0-8006-3136-6.
Subscribe to Christian Social Action. The subscription information is: Circulation Manager, 100 Maryland Ave., N.E., Washington, D.C. 2002. Telephone: 1-202-488-5621; www.umc-gbcs.org/csamagazine
Books - Recommended
The Book of Resolutions of the United Methodist Church. Abingdon Press, 2008.
Jung, Patricia and Shannon Jung. Moral Issues & Christian Responses, 7th ed. Wadsworth, 2003. ISBN: 0-15-505895-9.
Fortune, Marie M. Is Nothing Sacred: The Story of a Pastor, the Women He Sexually Abused, and the Congregation He Nearly Destroyed. ISBN 0829812709.
Wogaman, J. Philip. Christian Ethics: A Historical Introduction. ISBN 0664251633.
B. HOW TO FORMAT YOUR HOMEWORK
1. Read all the assigned pages, take accurate notes, and answer the questions in your own words, using complete sentences unless otherwise noted. Do not quote extensively from the texts you read. Instead, read, understand, and digest the ideas and information expressed and then put them in your own words, along with your informed reaction to them, if requested.
2. Follow the approximate length given for each item of written work. Too long is as bad as too short.
3. Print your written work on 8½ by 11 inch (letter sized) 20 pound white paper, one side only, double-spaced, with one-inch margins all around. On a computer use a 12-point font, either Times New Roman or Arial. One page equals approximately 250 words. If a typewriter is your only option, use 10 pitch (pica), or 12 pitch (elite). Do not use script, condensed, or all caps print.
4. Include a header with your name, the class number (COS 414), and the appropriate page number on the upper right corner of each page of your work. Begin each numbered item on a new sheet of paper, writing that number at the beginning of your answer. Please save both of us some work and the world some resources by not retyping the questions before your answers.
5. If you must quote from a printed text, make sure you use quotation marks and note the source (including pages) in parentheses at the end of each usage. Quotations should never be more than a sentence or two long. Ideas and information should be stated in your own words, not the words of the authors you have read. For assigned texts, you may abbreviate the titles by using the first letter of each word in the title. For example, if the source is Harper’s Bible Dictionary, then use (HBD, p. 34-35). If you refer to books that are not listed on the class reading list, then you must give full bibliographic information. The Proper Citations page will give you more information about how to present bibliographic information in your work.
6. Staple all the pages for each course of each module together sequentially, using one staple in the upper left-hand corner. Do not staple together papers for more than one course. Do not use paper clips, bind your homework, or turn in 3-ring binders or plastic/paper report covers.
7. Add a title page for each course of each module that includes a) the name of the course, b) your name, and c) the date of the first day of class.
8. The due date for all written work is listed below. Late work is only accepted with prior approval of both the Instructor and the Director of the Course of Study School and may have a significant negative effect on your grade, regardless of the reason for its lateness. In other words, get as a much of your work in on time as possible. It is possible to flunk this course on late work, no matter well it is done.
9. Make a copy of your material and bring it with you for your own use during the school.
NOTE: This course is about ethics. Using other people’s materials without documentation – whether from a book, journal, teacher, another student, sermon service, or lectionary aid – is unacceptable. It’s called plagiarism and usually results in failure for the course with notification sent to both the Conference Course of Study Registrar and the Division of Ordained Ministry. Instructors will report all instances of plagiarism to the Director of the Course of Study. The Director will arrange for a meeting with the instructor and the student, and the student will be given opportunity to explain the situation. The Director in consultation with the instructor will make a decision about what action is appropriate for a first instance of plagiarism. Such action could include rewriting the material or failure of the course. A brief summary of the meeting will be prepared by the Director and placed in the student’s file in the Course of Study Office and kept there until the student completes the Course of Study Curriculum. If a second instance of plagiarism is documented, the student will fail the course and the Director will determine what other consequences may apply.
C. ASSIGNMENTS
1. Preliminary Moral/Ethical Reflection [Do this before any reading assignment]
We all make moral decisions that affect our thoughts, words, and behavior. We do not always reflect upon these decisions, however, or understand where they come from or how they’re made. Take time to consciously consider how you have made moral or ethical decisions in the past, especially when they have been difficult or ambiguous. Identify examples of moral, social, or ethical issues being faced by our society today and indicate the source or sources of ethical decision making that have informed the decisions you have made. (1 page)
2. Reading Reactions
Prepare a summary of 5 articles related to Christian social behavior or decision making taken from Christian Social Action magazine (recommended) or read on-line at http://www.umc-gbcs.org/. These articles may come from either source.
3. From Robin Lovin’s Discussion on Christian Ethics
The moral/ethical life is often called “contested” territory. This is due in part to the diverse assumptions and worldviews that govern each individual’s thoughts, decisions, and actions. Lovin attempts to establish a way of being initiated into the adventure of Christian moral reflection.
a. Speaking the Language of the Moral Life: Provide working definitions for the following terms and moral notions (3 pages total):
1. The Good Life 14. Areteological theory
2. Ethics 15. Covenant
3. Christian Ethics 16. Narrative
4. Morality 17. Cardinal Virtues
5. Christian Morality 18. Theological Virtues
6. Goals 19. Ecumenical Church
7. Rules 20. Confessional Church
8. Virtues 21. Missional Church
9. ethics vs. ethic 22. moral vs. nonmoral
10. descriptive vs. normative 23. Utilitarianism
11. Contract 24. Situation Ethics
12. Teleological Theory 25. Divine Command
13. Deontological Theory 26. Natural Law Theory
b. Lovin suggests that ethical thinking involves goals, rules, and virtues. Many systems of ethical reflection arise around the dominance of one of these three, and yet relates to the other two in certain ways. Discuss the following questions, summarizes the author’s discussion and responding to it in a way that gives evidence of your own thoughts and moral process:
1. What is an ethics based on “goals”? How does it account for rules and virtues? (1 page)
2. What is an ethics based on “rules”? How does it account for goals and virtues? (1 page)
3. What is an ethics based on “virtues”? How does it account for goals and rules? (1 page)
4. Based upon Lovin’s discussion, how would you evaluate the view of the relationship between church and society that you embrace in your life as a Christian? (1 page)
5. Drawing upon Lovin’s discussion and your own thinking and personal history, discuss the relationship among the following: Jesus, the Church, narrative, and virtues. (4 pages)
4. Christian Responses to Selected Moral Issues
The moral life intersects many distinct communities. In this section, you are specifically challenged to do your own reflection as a Christians who participates in a specific community of faith across time which we call the Church. The following assignments ask you to engage selected readings from differing perspectives. Keep in mind what you have learned from engaging Lovin’s text on Christian Ethics.
Using all the resources available to you, prepare brief (2-3 page) reflection papers on each of the following five (5) issues, including your assessment of them from a Christian perspective. These resources include the required and recommended texts for this class; Christian Social Action magazine and the General Board of Church and Society’s website http://www.umc-gbcs.org/; other places on the Internet; and church, private, and public libraries. Not all sources are of equal value, but all may help to illustrate the issues involved. You will be graded upon your choice, understanding, use, and reflection of these sources within the context of the following issues being discussed:
Biomedical Ethics, including medical access and issues related to the start and end of life (2-3 pages)
Prejudice and Oppression (2-3 pages)
Issues of National Priorities, including Economics, Terrorism, and War (2-3 pages)
Issues related the use and abuse of Creation (2-3 pages)
Issues related to Marriage, Divorce, and Human Sexuality (2-3 pages)
It is expected for you to have and reflect an opinion on each of these five topics, so long as you can rationally defend it based upon scripture, reason, tradition, experience, and the readings and reflections you have done as a part of this class. It is not OK for you to attack someone else’s position as “un-Biblical” or “un-Christian” just because they disagree with you. Clear thinking, God-loving, Bible-reading Christians often come to distinctly different places on these issues. That’s what makes them controversial.
5. Ministerial/Clergy Ethics (Miles, The Pastor As Moral Guide)
Clergy are called by God and God’s people, the Church. This vocation embodies commitments to “be” as well as to “do” and a covenantal sense of “we” as well as “God and me.” Clergy persons represent the Church in its communal witness through Word, Table (Worship), and Deed. The moral/ethical challenges are real, deep, and persistent.
a. Write a brief, thoughtful statement describing your sense of call to the office of ministry in the church. Include your sense of how this call is from God and from the body of Christ, the church and how your thoughts, words, and behavior live out this call and reflect its nature to your family, friends, church, and community. (1 page)
b. Write a brief, thoughtful statement describing your violation of the pastor covenant can affect the faith of those entrusted to your pastoral care and the ministry of other pastors and vice versa. (1-2 pages)
c. Based upon your reading of Miles’ The Pastor As Moral Guide, respond to the following:
i. Are you convinced by her discussion that the Pastor is to serve as a moral guide? Why or why not? (1/2 page)
ii. According to Miles, (moral) guidance must be a necessary part of our pastoral counseling with parishioners. How has Miles’ discussion on pages 44-54, particularly about the “terrain” covered in moral counseling, contributed to your increased awareness and “effectiveness” in the moral dimension of this pastoral function? (1½ pages)
iii. Outline in sufficient detail a practical strategy for long-term moral formation for your local congregation(s). Use Miles’ suggestions as “prompters” for developing the specific steps you might include in such a strategy. In a brief paragraph before your outline, indicate why you believe such a long-term strategy of moral formation is crucial for your congregation(s). [Remember the diverse constituencies in your congregation, so think seriously before you begin this task.] You may single space the outline. (1 page)
iv. From the strategy of long-term moral formation above, implement the strategy by focusing on at least two of your ideas. Try to involve others in this process. Then submit a “Progress Report on Long-Term Moral Formation in ‘Your Church Name’.” Indicate your future plans to expand your efforts. (1 page)
v. Read Chapter 5 of Miles. Do the following:
1. Define and describe “Sexual Misconduct.” (½ page)
2. How do you believe sexual misconduct and the church’s response to it relate to your call to the ordained ministry? (1 page)
3. Develop brief statements about how you address or intend to address “boundary issues;” your plan or actual policy regarding this moral issue in your local congregation; your response to your denomination’s guidelines and whether you believe some pastors who are found guilty of this sin should be encouraged to enter other areas of Christian ministry other than the ordained ministry; and indicate how discipleship and the vocation of ministry shape your views about sexual ethics and the church’s obligations to “victims,” “offenders,” “families,” and “congregations.” (3-4 pages)
6. Social Action
Where we turn for our information on an issue will influence how we understand that issue and act upon it. Christian Social Action is a church publication designed to provide specific information on moral issues:
Take an area of current concern from an issue of Christian Social Action and identify what information the magazine gives you on that concern. (Condense and list on 1 page)
For one month examine your local newspaper, a national newsmagazine, and watch TV news to see what information they give on the issue. If you prefer, you may read the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, etc. on the Internet in place of your local newspaper or national news magazine. How much and what type of information did they provide? (Condense and list on 1 page)
From each of the sources you examined could you identify a particular moral/ethical viewpoint from which it was written? Where (in your opinion) did you get the most helpful information? (1 page)
7. The General Rules and Social Principles
The General Rules and Social Principles of the United Methodist Church could and should be lifted up before the congregation at least once each year.
Summarize and explain the 3 General Rules of our Church (1-2 pages total)
Read the published Social Principles from our current Book of Discipline and plan with your Work Area Chairperson in Church and Society or your Administrative Council/Council on Ministries as to how you might present these principles to your congregation. (1 page)
Reflect critically on two (2) moral issues addressed in the Social Principles. Choose one with whom you agree and one you find problematic. Explain your answer. (2 pages, 1 for each issue)
Make a list of questions on moral decision-making on particular issues that you want to have examined further in class. (½ page)
D. GRADING SYSTEM
Grading Standards:
A=exceeds expectation for Course of Study)
B=expected quality for COS
C=passing work but not of expected quality
D=unacceptable quality (no credit)
F=fail.
Your final grade will be calculated as follows:
30 % from the written work from the pre-session reading and assignments
30 % from written material submitted during the course
20 % from class participation and attendance
20 % from your final exam.
E. HOMEWORK DUE DATE
Friday, October 23
Assignment 1: Preliminary Moral/Ethical Reflection
Assignment 2: 5 Reading Reactions
Assignment 3a: Definition of 26 terms and moral notions
Assignment 3b: Questions related to goals, rules, and virtues; the relationship between church and society; and the relationship between Jesus, the Church, narrative, and virtues.
Assignment 4: Christian Responses to Selected Moral Issues
Friday, November 20
Re-write of Assignment 4: Christian Responses to Selected Moral Issues
Assignment 5: Ministerial/Clergy Ethics
Assignment 6: Social Action
Assignment 7: The General Rules and Social Principles
Course of Study Extension School of
Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
2121 Sheridan Road
Evanston, IL 60201
YEAR FOUR
October 23-24; November 20-21, 2009
414 Personal & Social Ethics
All classes are held at the United Methodist Conference Center
5900 S. 2nd Street – Springfield, IL 62711
Instructor: Dr. Thomas R. Logsdon, Pastor Office Phone: 815-634-8670 or 815-634-2882
Coal City United Methodist Church Home Phone: 815-634-4616
6805 E. McArdle Road E-mail: TLogsdon@aol.com
Coal City, IL 60416 Office Fax: 815-634-2314
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Email is best, but you can also reach me by phone, fax, and US Postal Service. I am more than willing to receive any assignments by
e-mail, “snail mail,” or fax for early revisions and comments.
Please keep a copy everything you give or send to me!
Assignments occasionally get lost in transit and
you don’t want to have to recreate your work.
This course is about (1) making informed decisions with integrity, (2) knowing and living out your Christian values, and (3) helping the people influences by your leadership to do the same. Together, we will analyze the biblical, theological, and experiential bases for personal, professional, and social Christian behavior, with emphasis given to the acquisition of pastoral skills for moral discernment and ethically responsible decision making and action.
A. BASIC INFORMATION
Course Objectives
To explore the Biblical and theological bases for ethical thinking, guidance, and behavior.
To survey the major approaches to ethical reasoning and incorporate them within your own thinking, guidance, and behavior.
To examine the General Rules and Social Principles of the United Methodist Church as a frame of reference for ethical decision-making, guidance, and behavior.
To explore of ways of dealing with ethical dilemmas inherent in such issues as war and peace, hunger, poverty, political tyranny, domestic violence, substance abuse, racism, AIDS, and biomedical technology.
To reflect upon case studies that challenge pastors to carefully examine their ethical response and responsibilities.
To focus on particular issues for personal and professional life that significantly impact our ministerial thinking, guidance, and behavior and affect the way we order our loves together in a covenantal relationship.
To delineate and reflect upon the basic and essential guidelines for Christian identity and moral behavior.
Books - Required
The Bible (NRSV, NIV, CEV, or TEV).
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church. Abingdon Press, 2008.
Lovin, Robin W. Christian Ethics: An Essential Guide. Abingdon Press, 2000. ISBN: 0-687-05462-1.
Miles, Rebekah L. The Pastor as Moral Guide. Fortress Press, 1999. ISBN: 0-8006-3136-6.
Subscribe to Christian Social Action. The subscription information is: Circulation Manager, 100 Maryland Ave., N.E., Washington, D.C. 2002. Telephone: 1-202-488-5621; www.umc-gbcs.org/csamagazine
Books - Recommended
The Book of Resolutions of the United Methodist Church. Abingdon Press, 2008.
Jung, Patricia and Shannon Jung. Moral Issues & Christian Responses, 7th ed. Wadsworth, 2003. ISBN: 0-15-505895-9.
Fortune, Marie M. Is Nothing Sacred: The Story of a Pastor, the Women He Sexually Abused, and the Congregation He Nearly Destroyed. ISBN 0829812709.
Wogaman, J. Philip. Christian Ethics: A Historical Introduction. ISBN 0664251633.
B. HOW TO FORMAT YOUR HOMEWORK
1. Read all the assigned pages, take accurate notes, and answer the questions in your own words, using complete sentences unless otherwise noted. Do not quote extensively from the texts you read. Instead, read, understand, and digest the ideas and information expressed and then put them in your own words, along with your informed reaction to them, if requested.
2. Follow the approximate length given for each item of written work. Too long is as bad as too short.
3. Print your written work on 8½ by 11 inch (letter sized) 20 pound white paper, one side only, double-spaced, with one-inch margins all around. On a computer use a 12-point font, either Times New Roman or Arial. One page equals approximately 250 words. If a typewriter is your only option, use 10 pitch (pica), or 12 pitch (elite). Do not use script, condensed, or all caps print.
4. Include a header with your name, the class number (COS 414), and the appropriate page number on the upper right corner of each page of your work. Begin each numbered item on a new sheet of paper, writing that number at the beginning of your answer. Please save both of us some work and the world some resources by not retyping the questions before your answers.
5. If you must quote from a printed text, make sure you use quotation marks and note the source (including pages) in parentheses at the end of each usage. Quotations should never be more than a sentence or two long. Ideas and information should be stated in your own words, not the words of the authors you have read. For assigned texts, you may abbreviate the titles by using the first letter of each word in the title. For example, if the source is Harper’s Bible Dictionary, then use (HBD, p. 34-35). If you refer to books that are not listed on the class reading list, then you must give full bibliographic information. The Proper Citations page will give you more information about how to present bibliographic information in your work.
6. Staple all the pages for each course of each module together sequentially, using one staple in the upper left-hand corner. Do not staple together papers for more than one course. Do not use paper clips, bind your homework, or turn in 3-ring binders or plastic/paper report covers.
7. Add a title page for each course of each module that includes a) the name of the course, b) your name, and c) the date of the first day of class.
8. The due date for all written work is listed below. Late work is only accepted with prior approval of both the Instructor and the Director of the Course of Study School and may have a significant negative effect on your grade, regardless of the reason for its lateness. In other words, get as a much of your work in on time as possible. It is possible to flunk this course on late work, no matter well it is done.
9. Make a copy of your material and bring it with you for your own use during the school.
NOTE: This course is about ethics. Using other people’s materials without documentation – whether from a book, journal, teacher, another student, sermon service, or lectionary aid – is unacceptable. It’s called plagiarism and usually results in failure for the course with notification sent to both the Conference Course of Study Registrar and the Division of Ordained Ministry. Instructors will report all instances of plagiarism to the Director of the Course of Study. The Director will arrange for a meeting with the instructor and the student, and the student will be given opportunity to explain the situation. The Director in consultation with the instructor will make a decision about what action is appropriate for a first instance of plagiarism. Such action could include rewriting the material or failure of the course. A brief summary of the meeting will be prepared by the Director and placed in the student’s file in the Course of Study Office and kept there until the student completes the Course of Study Curriculum. If a second instance of plagiarism is documented, the student will fail the course and the Director will determine what other consequences may apply.
C. ASSIGNMENTS
1. Preliminary Moral/Ethical Reflection [Do this before any reading assignment]
We all make moral decisions that affect our thoughts, words, and behavior. We do not always reflect upon these decisions, however, or understand where they come from or how they’re made. Take time to consciously consider how you have made moral or ethical decisions in the past, especially when they have been difficult or ambiguous. Identify examples of moral, social, or ethical issues being faced by our society today and indicate the source or sources of ethical decision making that have informed the decisions you have made. (1 page)
2. Reading Reactions
Prepare a summary of 5 articles related to Christian social behavior or decision making taken from Christian Social Action magazine (recommended) or read on-line at http://www.umc-gbcs.org/. These articles may come from either source.
3. From Robin Lovin’s Discussion on Christian Ethics
The moral/ethical life is often called “contested” territory. This is due in part to the diverse assumptions and worldviews that govern each individual’s thoughts, decisions, and actions. Lovin attempts to establish a way of being initiated into the adventure of Christian moral reflection.
a. Speaking the Language of the Moral Life: Provide working definitions for the following terms and moral notions (3 pages total):
1. The Good Life 14. Areteological theory
2. Ethics 15. Covenant
3. Christian Ethics 16. Narrative
4. Morality 17. Cardinal Virtues
5. Christian Morality 18. Theological Virtues
6. Goals 19. Ecumenical Church
7. Rules 20. Confessional Church
8. Virtues 21. Missional Church
9. ethics vs. ethic 22. moral vs. nonmoral
10. descriptive vs. normative 23. Utilitarianism
11. Contract 24. Situation Ethics
12. Teleological Theory 25. Divine Command
13. Deontological Theory 26. Natural Law Theory
b. Lovin suggests that ethical thinking involves goals, rules, and virtues. Many systems of ethical reflection arise around the dominance of one of these three, and yet relates to the other two in certain ways. Discuss the following questions, summarizes the author’s discussion and responding to it in a way that gives evidence of your own thoughts and moral process:
1. What is an ethics based on “goals”? How does it account for rules and virtues? (1 page)
2. What is an ethics based on “rules”? How does it account for goals and virtues? (1 page)
3. What is an ethics based on “virtues”? How does it account for goals and rules? (1 page)
4. Based upon Lovin’s discussion, how would you evaluate the view of the relationship between church and society that you embrace in your life as a Christian? (1 page)
5. Drawing upon Lovin’s discussion and your own thinking and personal history, discuss the relationship among the following: Jesus, the Church, narrative, and virtues. (4 pages)
4. Christian Responses to Selected Moral Issues
The moral life intersects many distinct communities. In this section, you are specifically challenged to do your own reflection as a Christians who participates in a specific community of faith across time which we call the Church. The following assignments ask you to engage selected readings from differing perspectives. Keep in mind what you have learned from engaging Lovin’s text on Christian Ethics.
Using all the resources available to you, prepare brief (2-3 page) reflection papers on each of the following five (5) issues, including your assessment of them from a Christian perspective. These resources include the required and recommended texts for this class; Christian Social Action magazine and the General Board of Church and Society’s website http://www.umc-gbcs.org/; other places on the Internet; and church, private, and public libraries. Not all sources are of equal value, but all may help to illustrate the issues involved. You will be graded upon your choice, understanding, use, and reflection of these sources within the context of the following issues being discussed:
Biomedical Ethics, including medical access and issues related to the start and end of life (2-3 pages)
Prejudice and Oppression (2-3 pages)
Issues of National Priorities, including Economics, Terrorism, and War (2-3 pages)
Issues related the use and abuse of Creation (2-3 pages)
Issues related to Marriage, Divorce, and Human Sexuality (2-3 pages)
It is expected for you to have and reflect an opinion on each of these five topics, so long as you can rationally defend it based upon scripture, reason, tradition, experience, and the readings and reflections you have done as a part of this class. It is not OK for you to attack someone else’s position as “un-Biblical” or “un-Christian” just because they disagree with you. Clear thinking, God-loving, Bible-reading Christians often come to distinctly different places on these issues. That’s what makes them controversial.
5. Ministerial/Clergy Ethics (Miles, The Pastor As Moral Guide)
Clergy are called by God and God’s people, the Church. This vocation embodies commitments to “be” as well as to “do” and a covenantal sense of “we” as well as “God and me.” Clergy persons represent the Church in its communal witness through Word, Table (Worship), and Deed. The moral/ethical challenges are real, deep, and persistent.
a. Write a brief, thoughtful statement describing your sense of call to the office of ministry in the church. Include your sense of how this call is from God and from the body of Christ, the church and how your thoughts, words, and behavior live out this call and reflect its nature to your family, friends, church, and community. (1 page)
b. Write a brief, thoughtful statement describing your violation of the pastor covenant can affect the faith of those entrusted to your pastoral care and the ministry of other pastors and vice versa. (1-2 pages)
c. Based upon your reading of Miles’ The Pastor As Moral Guide, respond to the following:
i. Are you convinced by her discussion that the Pastor is to serve as a moral guide? Why or why not? (1/2 page)
ii. According to Miles, (moral) guidance must be a necessary part of our pastoral counseling with parishioners. How has Miles’ discussion on pages 44-54, particularly about the “terrain” covered in moral counseling, contributed to your increased awareness and “effectiveness” in the moral dimension of this pastoral function? (1½ pages)
iii. Outline in sufficient detail a practical strategy for long-term moral formation for your local congregation(s). Use Miles’ suggestions as “prompters” for developing the specific steps you might include in such a strategy. In a brief paragraph before your outline, indicate why you believe such a long-term strategy of moral formation is crucial for your congregation(s). [Remember the diverse constituencies in your congregation, so think seriously before you begin this task.] You may single space the outline. (1 page)
iv. From the strategy of long-term moral formation above, implement the strategy by focusing on at least two of your ideas. Try to involve others in this process. Then submit a “Progress Report on Long-Term Moral Formation in ‘Your Church Name’.” Indicate your future plans to expand your efforts. (1 page)
v. Read Chapter 5 of Miles. Do the following:
1. Define and describe “Sexual Misconduct.” (½ page)
2. How do you believe sexual misconduct and the church’s response to it relate to your call to the ordained ministry? (1 page)
3. Develop brief statements about how you address or intend to address “boundary issues;” your plan or actual policy regarding this moral issue in your local congregation; your response to your denomination’s guidelines and whether you believe some pastors who are found guilty of this sin should be encouraged to enter other areas of Christian ministry other than the ordained ministry; and indicate how discipleship and the vocation of ministry shape your views about sexual ethics and the church’s obligations to “victims,” “offenders,” “families,” and “congregations.” (3-4 pages)
6. Social Action
Where we turn for our information on an issue will influence how we understand that issue and act upon it. Christian Social Action is a church publication designed to provide specific information on moral issues:
Take an area of current concern from an issue of Christian Social Action and identify what information the magazine gives you on that concern. (Condense and list on 1 page)
For one month examine your local newspaper, a national newsmagazine, and watch TV news to see what information they give on the issue. If you prefer, you may read the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, etc. on the Internet in place of your local newspaper or national news magazine. How much and what type of information did they provide? (Condense and list on 1 page)
From each of the sources you examined could you identify a particular moral/ethical viewpoint from which it was written? Where (in your opinion) did you get the most helpful information? (1 page)
7. The General Rules and Social Principles
The General Rules and Social Principles of the United Methodist Church could and should be lifted up before the congregation at least once each year.
Summarize and explain the 3 General Rules of our Church (1-2 pages total)
Read the published Social Principles from our current Book of Discipline and plan with your Work Area Chairperson in Church and Society or your Administrative Council/Council on Ministries as to how you might present these principles to your congregation. (1 page)
Reflect critically on two (2) moral issues addressed in the Social Principles. Choose one with whom you agree and one you find problematic. Explain your answer. (2 pages, 1 for each issue)
Make a list of questions on moral decision-making on particular issues that you want to have examined further in class. (½ page)
D. GRADING SYSTEM
Grading Standards:
A=exceeds expectation for Course of Study)
B=expected quality for COS
C=passing work but not of expected quality
D=unacceptable quality (no credit)
F=fail.
Your final grade will be calculated as follows:
30 % from the written work from the pre-session reading and assignments
30 % from written material submitted during the course
20 % from class participation and attendance
20 % from your final exam.
E. HOMEWORK DUE DATE
Friday, October 23
Assignment 1: Preliminary Moral/Ethical Reflection
Assignment 2: 5 Reading Reactions
Assignment 3a: Definition of 26 terms and moral notions
Assignment 3b: Questions related to goals, rules, and virtues; the relationship between church and society; and the relationship between Jesus, the Church, narrative, and virtues.
Assignment 4: Christian Responses to Selected Moral Issues
Friday, November 20
Re-write of Assignment 4: Christian Responses to Selected Moral Issues
Assignment 5: Ministerial/Clergy Ethics
Assignment 6: Social Action
Assignment 7: The General Rules and Social Principles
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Fall 2009 Brochure
Course of Study School 2009
Curriculum
Studies of the 1st Year
111 – The Pastor as Interpreter of the Bible
112 – Theology in the Wesleyan Spirit
113 – Pastoral Care for Spiritual Formation
114 – Pastoral Leadership & Administration
Studies of the 2nd Year
211 – Hebrew Bible I
212 – Theological Heritage: Early & Medieval
213 – Formation for Discipleship
214 – Practice of Preaching
Studies of the 3rd Year
311 – New Testament I
312 – Theological Heritage: Reformation
313 – Our Mission: Evangelism
314 – Pastoral Care & Counseling
Studies of the 4th Year
411 – Hebrew Bible II
412 – Wesleyan Movement
413 – Worship and Sacraments
414 – Personal and Social Ethics
Studies of the 5th Year
511 – New Testament II
512 – Contemporary Theology
513 – Our Mission: Transforming Agent
514 – Theology and the Practice of Ministry
The Course of Study is prescribed by the Division of Ordained Ministry of the United Methodist Church to provide for the education of Local Pastors and to equip them to serve local churches as spiritual leaders. Persons who desire to continue as Local Pastors must work toward completing the five-year Course of Study in 12 years. Our school is established as an Extension School of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and serves Part-time Local Pastors.
Contacts for registration:
Director – h.sallee@mchsi.com 217-317-2577
Cell: 217-242-6297
You are expected to download registration forms and receive other information at the web site if possible:
www.igrcos.com
or at the director’s blog:
www.igrcos.blogspot.com
E-mail or call the director if you experience problems
The Vision and Mission of the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference
Our Vision: All the physically and spiritually hungry people of our world feasting at God’s table through the inviting, welcoming, and sharing of Christian communities of faith.
Our Mission: The purpose of the annual conference is to make disciples of Jesus Christ by equipping its local churches for ministry and by providing a connection for ministry beyond the local church, all to the glory of God, so that the physically and spiritually hungry may feast at God’s table. (The Book of Discipline, 2000, 601)
Course of Study
School
Fall 09
Weekend Courses
For Part-time Local Pastors
Illinois Great Rivers Conference
and
Garrett-Evangelical
Theological Seminary
Rev. Howard Sallee, Director
Dates for Fall 09
COS 113 Pastoral Care for Spiritual
Formation -- Linda Horrell
or
COS 312 Theological Heritage:
Reformation – Dennis Powers
September 11-12, October 2-3, 2009
COS 313 Our Mission: Evangelism Shalom Renner
or
COS 414 Personal and Social Ethics
Tom Logsdon
October 23-24, November 20-21, 2009
You may take one course during each session grouping and they must be the lowest numbered class you need in your program. Anything else must receive the director’s permission.
Deadline for registration is shown on the registration form.
All sessions begin on Friday at 6:00 p.m. and end on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. A light lunch is provided on Saturday. A time of fellowship is scheduled from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM on Fridays.
Registration
For registration deadlines for each course, see above.
A $50.00 non-refundable fee per class is required at time of registration. One is not guaranteed a place in class until registration and tuition are paid.
All registrations and tuition payments should be mailed to the Director of this Extension Course of Study School for Part-time Local Pastors,
Rev. Howard Sallee
3417 Dewitt Avenue
Mattoon, IL 61938
For rulings, transcripts and Board of Ordained Ministry questions, contact the Board of Ordained Ministry registrar, Rev. John Salzman at 3392 Palmtree Dr. Lake Havasu City, AZ 86404
cosexten@hotmail.com
Cancellations later than 30 days prior to class will result in the loss of tuition unless due to illness of self or family. Weddings and Funerals do not qualify. You should have a colleague cover for you. **
Admission Requirements
These courses are offered for Part-time Local Pastors seeking study in ministry and United Methodist heritage. To be admitted to the school, one must have:
• Completed the School for License as a Local Pastor and
• Received a recommendation by District
Superintendent
A limited number of other clergy or laity may audit each course for a fee of $75.00 and receive 2 CEU’s for each class.
Fees
The tuition and registration is $300 per course and must be paid in full at least 30 days prior to the first day of class. Late tuition payments will incur a $10.00 additional fee. Tuition includes cost of class and lunch on Saturday. Textbooks and lodging are the responsibility of the participant.
For IGRC pastors, the Board of Ordained Ministry provides a $150 scholarship to those persons who are Certified Candidates or have the License as a Local Pastor. Forms for reimbursement will be made available.
Students from other conferences should check with their conference leadership concerning scholarships and reimbursements.
Other financial support might be possible. Check with your District Superintendent.
Course Requirements
• Read assigned textbooks and write answers to
study questions.
• Write short papers or sermon or teaching lesson plan. These assignments must be
completed prior to the start of the classes.
A self-addressed envelope suitable for return mailing should accompany papers.
• Attend the class sessions on two weekends and actively participate in the group discussions.
Location
All sessions will take place at:
Illinois Great Rivers Conference Center
5900 South Second Street
Springfield, IL
Anticipated Courses for Spring 2010
COS 114 Pastoral Leadership and Administration – Terry Harter
or
COS 314 Pastoral Care and Counseling
Linda Horrell
February 5-6, March 5-6, 2010
COS 412 Wesleyan Movement Dennis Powers
or
COS 514 Theology and Practice of Ministry Jim Bortell
April 9-10, May 7-8, 2010
All instructors are fully qualified to teach Course of Study and are members in good standing with the Illinois Great Rivers Conference. Most of these are pastors.
Curriculum
Studies of the 1st Year
111 – The Pastor as Interpreter of the Bible
112 – Theology in the Wesleyan Spirit
113 – Pastoral Care for Spiritual Formation
114 – Pastoral Leadership & Administration
Studies of the 2nd Year
211 – Hebrew Bible I
212 – Theological Heritage: Early & Medieval
213 – Formation for Discipleship
214 – Practice of Preaching
Studies of the 3rd Year
311 – New Testament I
312 – Theological Heritage: Reformation
313 – Our Mission: Evangelism
314 – Pastoral Care & Counseling
Studies of the 4th Year
411 – Hebrew Bible II
412 – Wesleyan Movement
413 – Worship and Sacraments
414 – Personal and Social Ethics
Studies of the 5th Year
511 – New Testament II
512 – Contemporary Theology
513 – Our Mission: Transforming Agent
514 – Theology and the Practice of Ministry
The Course of Study is prescribed by the Division of Ordained Ministry of the United Methodist Church to provide for the education of Local Pastors and to equip them to serve local churches as spiritual leaders. Persons who desire to continue as Local Pastors must work toward completing the five-year Course of Study in 12 years. Our school is established as an Extension School of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and serves Part-time Local Pastors.
Contacts for registration:
Director – h.sallee@mchsi.com 217-317-2577
Cell: 217-242-6297
You are expected to download registration forms and receive other information at the web site if possible:
www.igrcos.com
or at the director’s blog:
www.igrcos.blogspot.com
E-mail or call the director if you experience problems
The Vision and Mission of the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference
Our Vision: All the physically and spiritually hungry people of our world feasting at God’s table through the inviting, welcoming, and sharing of Christian communities of faith.
Our Mission: The purpose of the annual conference is to make disciples of Jesus Christ by equipping its local churches for ministry and by providing a connection for ministry beyond the local church, all to the glory of God, so that the physically and spiritually hungry may feast at God’s table. (The Book of Discipline, 2000, 601)
Course of Study
School
Fall 09
Weekend Courses
For Part-time Local Pastors
Illinois Great Rivers Conference
and
Garrett-Evangelical
Theological Seminary
Rev. Howard Sallee, Director
Dates for Fall 09
COS 113 Pastoral Care for Spiritual
Formation -- Linda Horrell
or
COS 312 Theological Heritage:
Reformation – Dennis Powers
September 11-12, October 2-3, 2009
COS 313 Our Mission: Evangelism Shalom Renner
or
COS 414 Personal and Social Ethics
Tom Logsdon
October 23-24, November 20-21, 2009
You may take one course during each session grouping and they must be the lowest numbered class you need in your program. Anything else must receive the director’s permission.
Deadline for registration is shown on the registration form.
All sessions begin on Friday at 6:00 p.m. and end on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. A light lunch is provided on Saturday. A time of fellowship is scheduled from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM on Fridays.
Registration
For registration deadlines for each course, see above.
A $50.00 non-refundable fee per class is required at time of registration. One is not guaranteed a place in class until registration and tuition are paid.
All registrations and tuition payments should be mailed to the Director of this Extension Course of Study School for Part-time Local Pastors,
Rev. Howard Sallee
3417 Dewitt Avenue
Mattoon, IL 61938
For rulings, transcripts and Board of Ordained Ministry questions, contact the Board of Ordained Ministry registrar, Rev. John Salzman at 3392 Palmtree Dr. Lake Havasu City, AZ 86404
cosexten@hotmail.com
Cancellations later than 30 days prior to class will result in the loss of tuition unless due to illness of self or family. Weddings and Funerals do not qualify. You should have a colleague cover for you. **
Admission Requirements
These courses are offered for Part-time Local Pastors seeking study in ministry and United Methodist heritage. To be admitted to the school, one must have:
• Completed the School for License as a Local Pastor and
• Received a recommendation by District
Superintendent
A limited number of other clergy or laity may audit each course for a fee of $75.00 and receive 2 CEU’s for each class.
Fees
The tuition and registration is $300 per course and must be paid in full at least 30 days prior to the first day of class. Late tuition payments will incur a $10.00 additional fee. Tuition includes cost of class and lunch on Saturday. Textbooks and lodging are the responsibility of the participant.
For IGRC pastors, the Board of Ordained Ministry provides a $150 scholarship to those persons who are Certified Candidates or have the License as a Local Pastor. Forms for reimbursement will be made available.
Students from other conferences should check with their conference leadership concerning scholarships and reimbursements.
Other financial support might be possible. Check with your District Superintendent.
Course Requirements
• Read assigned textbooks and write answers to
study questions.
• Write short papers or sermon or teaching lesson plan. These assignments must be
completed prior to the start of the classes.
A self-addressed envelope suitable for return mailing should accompany papers.
• Attend the class sessions on two weekends and actively participate in the group discussions.
Location
All sessions will take place at:
Illinois Great Rivers Conference Center
5900 South Second Street
Springfield, IL
Anticipated Courses for Spring 2010
COS 114 Pastoral Leadership and Administration – Terry Harter
or
COS 314 Pastoral Care and Counseling
Linda Horrell
February 5-6, March 5-6, 2010
COS 412 Wesleyan Movement Dennis Powers
or
COS 514 Theology and Practice of Ministry Jim Bortell
April 9-10, May 7-8, 2010
All instructors are fully qualified to teach Course of Study and are members in good standing with the Illinois Great Rivers Conference. Most of these are pastors.
313 Mission from God: Evangelism
313 Mission from God: Evangelism -- Fall 2009
COURSE OF STUDY SCHOOL
Illinois Great Rivers Extension
YEAR THREE
313 Mission from God: Evangelism
This course provides an analysis of the theology of evangelism and of various strategies for and approaches to the church's evangelical task in the heritage of United Methodism, stressing the proclamation and the enactment of the Gospel.
Course Objectives
Significant reference to the biblical roots of evangelism and foundational theological considerations necessary for the task of evangelism.
Understanding the role of the Holy Spirit in evangelism.
Interpretation of the Wesleyan heritage of evangelism.
Understanding church growth principles and how it relates to evangelism.
Analysis of effective principles for faith sharing.
Methods of approach to communication of the gospel.
Breaking barriers for growth and revitalization.
Developing and deploying spiritual gifts for the growth of the church.
Focus on evangelism in and for the local congregation with emphasis on issues such as developing vision and mission, the primary task of the local church, organizing and training laity for evangelism, relating evangelism to Christian education and developing comprehensive strategies for reaching the non-churched.
Analysis of contemporary issues in evangelism, such as relationship between evangelism and mission, evangelism in relation to personal and social transformation, worship styles, etc.
A. Required Books
Abraham, William J. The Logic of Evangelism. William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2002. ISBN 0-8028-0433-0.
Hunter III, George G., Radical Outreach: The Recovery of Apostolic Ministry and Evangelism, Abingdon Press, Nashville, Tennessee, 2003. ISBN 068707441X.
Jones, Scott J., The Evangelistic Love of God & Neighbor, Abingdon Press, Nashville, Tennessee, 2003. ISBN 0-687-04614-9.
Law, Eric H. F., The Wolf Shall Dwell With the Lamb: Spirituality for Leadership in a Multicultural Community. Chalice Press, St. Louis, Missouri, 1993. ISBN 0-8272-4231-X.
B. Instructions: how to format your homework
1. Read the pages, take notes and answer the questions completely in your own words, using complete sentences (unless otherwise noted). Do not quote extensively from the texts you read. Digest the ideas and information, and then put them in your own words.
2. Follow approximate length given for each item of written work.
3. Print your written work on 8½ X 11 white paper, one side only, double-spaced, with a one-inch margins all around. On computer use a 12-point font, either Times New Roman or Arial. One page equals approximately 250 words. If typewriter is your only option, use 10 pitch (pica), or 12 pitch (elite). Do not use script, condensed, or all caps print.
4. On each page of your work, include a header with your name, the class number, and the page number. Begin each numbered item on a new sheet of paper, writing that number at the beginning of your answer. Do not type the questions before your answers.
5. If you quote from a printed text, you must use quotation marks and note the source (including pages) in parentheses at the end of each usage. Quotations should never be more than a sentence or two long. Ideas and information should be stated in your own words, not in the words of the authors you have read. For assigned texts, you may abbreviate the titles by using the first letter of each word in the title. For example, if the source is Harper’s Bible Dictionary, then use (HBD, p. 34-35). If you refer to books that are not listed on the class reading list, then you must give full bibliographic information. The Proper Citations page will give you more information about how to present bibliographic information in your work.
6. Staple all pages for each of course of each module together in a sequential manner, using one staple in the upper left-hand corner. Do not staple together papers for more than one course. Do not bind your homework or turn in 3-ring binders or plastic/paper report covers.
7. Add a title page to each course of each module that includes a) the name of the course, b) your name, and c) the date of the first day of class.
8. The due date for written work is listed on the homework main page. Late work is only accepted with prior approval of the Director of the Course of Study School.
9. Make a copy of your material and bring it with you for your own use during the school.
NOTE: Using other people’s materials without documentation, whether from a book, journal, teacher, another student, sermon service, or lectionary aid, is unacceptable behavior. Such activity, otherwise known as plagiarism usually means failure for the course with notification sent to the Conference Course of Study Registrar and the Division of Ordained Ministry. Professors will report all instances of plagiarism to the Director of the Course of Study. The Director will arrange for a meeting with the professor and the student, and the student will be given opportunity to explain the situation. The Director in consultation with the professor will make a decision about what action is appropriate for a first instance of plagiarism. Such action could include, rewriting the material, or failure of the course. A brief summary of the meeting will be prepared by the Director and placed in the student’s file in the Course of Study Office and kept there until the student completes the Course of Study Curriculum. If a second instance of plagiarism is documented, the student will fail the course and the Director will determine what other consequences may apply.
Assignments
1. The Logic of Evangelism
Read the entire book and respond to the following questions. (5 pages)
What is Abraham’s definition of evangelism? How does this compare with current definitions?
What three “assumptions” does Abraham feel are essential to any discussions of the reign of God and how do these assumptions inform modern debate around the coming reign of God?
What does Abraham consider as problematic in defining evangelism solely in terms of proclamation?
Share your reflections and critical analysis of Abraham's discussion about Peter's "exclusive message about Jesus to his fellow Jews when he insisted that there was no other name under heaven given among men by which they must be saved (Acts 4:12). John records a similar claim in John 14: 6. Critically analyze Abraham's reflections and the implications for evangelism and sharing the Gospel.
2. Radical Outreach: The Recovery of Apostolic Ministry and Evangelism
Read the entire book and respond to the following questions. (7 pages)
What are the two major similarities between the mission fields of ancient Corinth and the emerging future of Christianity in America that Hunter makes reference to in “Radical Outreach”?
Hunter suggests that the letters to the Corinthian church comprises an outreach ministry proposal that can be organized into eight distinct emphases. What are those emphases and what is the process that is suggested as effective in reaching people with the gospel message?
In what ways do church leaders misunderstand people who are, according to Hunter, outside the church and how has this misunderstanding impacted the church’s mission to them?
What does Hunter mean by an apostolic way of doing church, and how does this methodology address what Hunter calls the unconscious pathology of many traditional churches?
What are the top ten insights that, according to Hunter, support culturally relevant Christianity and how might some of these insights be applicable to your current ministry setting?
Hunter’s book provides an extensive coverage of the work of various recovery ministries in addressing alcohol and drug dependency. What are the opportunities?
Hunter cites as available to local churches in reaching persons who are in various stages of recovery and how do these opportunities provide viable avenues for ministry in your context?
What are the five questions Hunter suggests congregations must address in moving from being tradition in focus to being mission in focus? How might these questions be applicable to your ministry setting? What might you do to assist persons in your ministry context to make the transition from tradition to mission in their focus on reaching persons?
3. The Evangelistic Love of God & Neighbor
Read entire book and respond to the following questions (6 pages).
How does the author define genuine evangelism, and what is the goal of genuine evangelism?
According to Jones, an interrelated set of practices are necessary for a holistic understanding of evangelism. What are those practices and how might a church become intentionally engaged in those practices?
Jones provides a critique of Abraham’s work in The Logic of Evangelism. What are the primary areas of critique and how might that critique inform the ministry of evangelism in your particular context?
How does Jones define the mission of the church and what are the essential components of that mission?
What would be considered a Wesleyan approach to evangelism as presented in Jones’ work.
Provide an overview of Jones’ understanding of witnessing to persons who profess a religious orientation other than Christian. Include in your overview Jones’ reflections on evangelization of Jews.
4. The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb: Spirituality for Leadership in a
Multicultural Community
Read entire book and respond to following questions (7 pages).
What do you perceive as some of the challenges of doing ministry in a multi-cultural environment? How might Law’s insights provide assistance to you?
Discuss the theological framework of “the peaceable realm” that Law identifies in the text.
What are your thoughts on Law’s briefing on the power dynamics that tends to erode honest communication in a multi-cultural setting?
How does the author define the variable dynamics of culture? .
What is ethnocentricity and how might it impact how we present the gospel of Jesus Christ?
According to Law, what is the meaning of internal and external culture?
g. Explain how “perceptions of power” differences can have an impact on group interactions. How might a leader facilitate communication in this kind of environment?
Recommended Reading:
Tex Sample, U.S. Lifestyles and Mainline Churches, Westminster, 1990.
Bill Hybels and Mark Mittleberg. Becoming A Contagious Christian, Willow Creek
Robert E. Coleman. The Master Plan of Evangelism. Fleming H. Revell, 1993.
Ron Crandall. Turnaround Strategies for the Small Church, Abingdon
Ron Crandall. The Contagious Witness: Exploring Christian Conversion, Abingdon, 1999.
Roger K. Swanson and Shirley F. Clement. The Faith-Sharing Congregation, 2002
George Hunter. How to Reach Secular People, Abingdon, 1992
George Hunter. Church for the Unchurched, Abingdon, 1996
George Hunter. Leading and Managing a Growing Church, Abingdon, 2000
Harry Lee Poe. Christian Witness in a Postmodern World, Abingdon, 2001.
Christian A. Schwartz. Natural Church Development, Church Smart Resources, 1996
Christian A. Schwartz. Color Your World with Natural Church Development,
Church Smart Resources, 2005
Local Church Visit Assignment:
Study a growing church successful at reaching new persons for Christ. Gather and graph the data of its recent growth. Using some combination of observation, historical analysis, questionnaires, and/or especially interviews (with lay persons and church staff), identify the chief causes of effective evangelism and growth noting principles read for the course assignment. Identify problems, barriers, and/or additional strategies, which could inform even greater growth in the future. Include any significant personal insights gained. Use the following questions to formulate your report (8-10 pages/double spaced).
1. Name of Church; give brief description of church; history; date visited
2. Patterns of worship attendance and membership (over the past ten years); use statistical information and do a bar graph…Use graph paper.
3. Name the various outreach ministries of the church; is the church intentionally reaching the un-churched population? What are the demographics of the community?
4. What is the church’s marketing strategy?
5. What is the total budget of the church and what percent of the budget is spent on evangelism/marketing, etc?
6. Name the discipleship ministries of the church and elaborate on the church's small group ministries.
7. What are the mission oriented ministries of the church?
8. What kind of worship styles and worship services are offered?
9. Was the message/sermon relevant to people’s needs?
10. What are the perceived strengths of the church? What are the perceived weaknesses of the church?
11. From your observance, what are the top five reasons for its growth and vitality?
12. Does the church have a long-range comprehensive plan for growth?
13. Does the church have a clear mission and vision to make disciples? What is the mission of the church and how effectively does the church live up to its mission?
14. Is the church visitor friendly? Do they have a good visitor follow-up ministry? Give a description.
15. Does the church have a strong ministry of assimilation to incorporate new members?
16. What are the five primary focus ministries of the church?
17. What do you perceive as barriers for growth?
18. How effectively is the church staffed for growth?
19. Are the building facilities conducive for growth?
20. In your assessment:
What did you learn about the church and its ministries, especially in evangelism?
Where do you think the church will be five years from now if it keeps doing what its doing now?
What do you see as weaknesses of the church? And why?
What recommendations will you offer for the church to continue to grow and be vital? And why?
D. Grading System
Grading Standards:
A=exceeds expectation for Course of Study), B= expected quality for COS, C=passing work but not of expected quality, D=unacceptable quality (no credit), F = fail.
The final grade will be calculated as follows:
50% Homework
25% Assignments written and completed during the module
25% Class participation
E. HOMEWORK DUE DATE:
At the first session, all book reviews are due.
At the second session, the church visit is due—along with any other assigned work.
COURSE OF STUDY SCHOOL
Illinois Great Rivers Extension
YEAR THREE
313 Mission from God: Evangelism
This course provides an analysis of the theology of evangelism and of various strategies for and approaches to the church's evangelical task in the heritage of United Methodism, stressing the proclamation and the enactment of the Gospel.
Course Objectives
Significant reference to the biblical roots of evangelism and foundational theological considerations necessary for the task of evangelism.
Understanding the role of the Holy Spirit in evangelism.
Interpretation of the Wesleyan heritage of evangelism.
Understanding church growth principles and how it relates to evangelism.
Analysis of effective principles for faith sharing.
Methods of approach to communication of the gospel.
Breaking barriers for growth and revitalization.
Developing and deploying spiritual gifts for the growth of the church.
Focus on evangelism in and for the local congregation with emphasis on issues such as developing vision and mission, the primary task of the local church, organizing and training laity for evangelism, relating evangelism to Christian education and developing comprehensive strategies for reaching the non-churched.
Analysis of contemporary issues in evangelism, such as relationship between evangelism and mission, evangelism in relation to personal and social transformation, worship styles, etc.
A. Required Books
Abraham, William J. The Logic of Evangelism. William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2002. ISBN 0-8028-0433-0.
Hunter III, George G., Radical Outreach: The Recovery of Apostolic Ministry and Evangelism, Abingdon Press, Nashville, Tennessee, 2003. ISBN 068707441X.
Jones, Scott J., The Evangelistic Love of God & Neighbor, Abingdon Press, Nashville, Tennessee, 2003. ISBN 0-687-04614-9.
Law, Eric H. F., The Wolf Shall Dwell With the Lamb: Spirituality for Leadership in a Multicultural Community. Chalice Press, St. Louis, Missouri, 1993. ISBN 0-8272-4231-X.
B. Instructions: how to format your homework
1. Read the pages, take notes and answer the questions completely in your own words, using complete sentences (unless otherwise noted). Do not quote extensively from the texts you read. Digest the ideas and information, and then put them in your own words.
2. Follow approximate length given for each item of written work.
3. Print your written work on 8½ X 11 white paper, one side only, double-spaced, with a one-inch margins all around. On computer use a 12-point font, either Times New Roman or Arial. One page equals approximately 250 words. If typewriter is your only option, use 10 pitch (pica), or 12 pitch (elite). Do not use script, condensed, or all caps print.
4. On each page of your work, include a header with your name, the class number, and the page number. Begin each numbered item on a new sheet of paper, writing that number at the beginning of your answer. Do not type the questions before your answers.
5. If you quote from a printed text, you must use quotation marks and note the source (including pages) in parentheses at the end of each usage. Quotations should never be more than a sentence or two long. Ideas and information should be stated in your own words, not in the words of the authors you have read. For assigned texts, you may abbreviate the titles by using the first letter of each word in the title. For example, if the source is Harper’s Bible Dictionary, then use (HBD, p. 34-35). If you refer to books that are not listed on the class reading list, then you must give full bibliographic information. The Proper Citations page will give you more information about how to present bibliographic information in your work.
6. Staple all pages for each of course of each module together in a sequential manner, using one staple in the upper left-hand corner. Do not staple together papers for more than one course. Do not bind your homework or turn in 3-ring binders or plastic/paper report covers.
7. Add a title page to each course of each module that includes a) the name of the course, b) your name, and c) the date of the first day of class.
8. The due date for written work is listed on the homework main page. Late work is only accepted with prior approval of the Director of the Course of Study School.
9. Make a copy of your material and bring it with you for your own use during the school.
NOTE: Using other people’s materials without documentation, whether from a book, journal, teacher, another student, sermon service, or lectionary aid, is unacceptable behavior. Such activity, otherwise known as plagiarism usually means failure for the course with notification sent to the Conference Course of Study Registrar and the Division of Ordained Ministry. Professors will report all instances of plagiarism to the Director of the Course of Study. The Director will arrange for a meeting with the professor and the student, and the student will be given opportunity to explain the situation. The Director in consultation with the professor will make a decision about what action is appropriate for a first instance of plagiarism. Such action could include, rewriting the material, or failure of the course. A brief summary of the meeting will be prepared by the Director and placed in the student’s file in the Course of Study Office and kept there until the student completes the Course of Study Curriculum. If a second instance of plagiarism is documented, the student will fail the course and the Director will determine what other consequences may apply.
Assignments
1. The Logic of Evangelism
Read the entire book and respond to the following questions. (5 pages)
What is Abraham’s definition of evangelism? How does this compare with current definitions?
What three “assumptions” does Abraham feel are essential to any discussions of the reign of God and how do these assumptions inform modern debate around the coming reign of God?
What does Abraham consider as problematic in defining evangelism solely in terms of proclamation?
Share your reflections and critical analysis of Abraham's discussion about Peter's "exclusive message about Jesus to his fellow Jews when he insisted that there was no other name under heaven given among men by which they must be saved (Acts 4:12). John records a similar claim in John 14: 6. Critically analyze Abraham's reflections and the implications for evangelism and sharing the Gospel.
2. Radical Outreach: The Recovery of Apostolic Ministry and Evangelism
Read the entire book and respond to the following questions. (7 pages)
What are the two major similarities between the mission fields of ancient Corinth and the emerging future of Christianity in America that Hunter makes reference to in “Radical Outreach”?
Hunter suggests that the letters to the Corinthian church comprises an outreach ministry proposal that can be organized into eight distinct emphases. What are those emphases and what is the process that is suggested as effective in reaching people with the gospel message?
In what ways do church leaders misunderstand people who are, according to Hunter, outside the church and how has this misunderstanding impacted the church’s mission to them?
What does Hunter mean by an apostolic way of doing church, and how does this methodology address what Hunter calls the unconscious pathology of many traditional churches?
What are the top ten insights that, according to Hunter, support culturally relevant Christianity and how might some of these insights be applicable to your current ministry setting?
Hunter’s book provides an extensive coverage of the work of various recovery ministries in addressing alcohol and drug dependency. What are the opportunities?
Hunter cites as available to local churches in reaching persons who are in various stages of recovery and how do these opportunities provide viable avenues for ministry in your context?
What are the five questions Hunter suggests congregations must address in moving from being tradition in focus to being mission in focus? How might these questions be applicable to your ministry setting? What might you do to assist persons in your ministry context to make the transition from tradition to mission in their focus on reaching persons?
3. The Evangelistic Love of God & Neighbor
Read entire book and respond to the following questions (6 pages).
How does the author define genuine evangelism, and what is the goal of genuine evangelism?
According to Jones, an interrelated set of practices are necessary for a holistic understanding of evangelism. What are those practices and how might a church become intentionally engaged in those practices?
Jones provides a critique of Abraham’s work in The Logic of Evangelism. What are the primary areas of critique and how might that critique inform the ministry of evangelism in your particular context?
How does Jones define the mission of the church and what are the essential components of that mission?
What would be considered a Wesleyan approach to evangelism as presented in Jones’ work.
Provide an overview of Jones’ understanding of witnessing to persons who profess a religious orientation other than Christian. Include in your overview Jones’ reflections on evangelization of Jews.
4. The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb: Spirituality for Leadership in a
Multicultural Community
Read entire book and respond to following questions (7 pages).
What do you perceive as some of the challenges of doing ministry in a multi-cultural environment? How might Law’s insights provide assistance to you?
Discuss the theological framework of “the peaceable realm” that Law identifies in the text.
What are your thoughts on Law’s briefing on the power dynamics that tends to erode honest communication in a multi-cultural setting?
How does the author define the variable dynamics of culture? .
What is ethnocentricity and how might it impact how we present the gospel of Jesus Christ?
According to Law, what is the meaning of internal and external culture?
g. Explain how “perceptions of power” differences can have an impact on group interactions. How might a leader facilitate communication in this kind of environment?
Recommended Reading:
Tex Sample, U.S. Lifestyles and Mainline Churches, Westminster, 1990.
Bill Hybels and Mark Mittleberg. Becoming A Contagious Christian, Willow Creek
Robert E. Coleman. The Master Plan of Evangelism. Fleming H. Revell, 1993.
Ron Crandall. Turnaround Strategies for the Small Church, Abingdon
Ron Crandall. The Contagious Witness: Exploring Christian Conversion, Abingdon, 1999.
Roger K. Swanson and Shirley F. Clement. The Faith-Sharing Congregation, 2002
George Hunter. How to Reach Secular People, Abingdon, 1992
George Hunter. Church for the Unchurched, Abingdon, 1996
George Hunter. Leading and Managing a Growing Church, Abingdon, 2000
Harry Lee Poe. Christian Witness in a Postmodern World, Abingdon, 2001.
Christian A. Schwartz. Natural Church Development, Church Smart Resources, 1996
Christian A. Schwartz. Color Your World with Natural Church Development,
Church Smart Resources, 2005
Local Church Visit Assignment:
Study a growing church successful at reaching new persons for Christ. Gather and graph the data of its recent growth. Using some combination of observation, historical analysis, questionnaires, and/or especially interviews (with lay persons and church staff), identify the chief causes of effective evangelism and growth noting principles read for the course assignment. Identify problems, barriers, and/or additional strategies, which could inform even greater growth in the future. Include any significant personal insights gained. Use the following questions to formulate your report (8-10 pages/double spaced).
1. Name of Church; give brief description of church; history; date visited
2. Patterns of worship attendance and membership (over the past ten years); use statistical information and do a bar graph…Use graph paper.
3. Name the various outreach ministries of the church; is the church intentionally reaching the un-churched population? What are the demographics of the community?
4. What is the church’s marketing strategy?
5. What is the total budget of the church and what percent of the budget is spent on evangelism/marketing, etc?
6. Name the discipleship ministries of the church and elaborate on the church's small group ministries.
7. What are the mission oriented ministries of the church?
8. What kind of worship styles and worship services are offered?
9. Was the message/sermon relevant to people’s needs?
10. What are the perceived strengths of the church? What are the perceived weaknesses of the church?
11. From your observance, what are the top five reasons for its growth and vitality?
12. Does the church have a long-range comprehensive plan for growth?
13. Does the church have a clear mission and vision to make disciples? What is the mission of the church and how effectively does the church live up to its mission?
14. Is the church visitor friendly? Do they have a good visitor follow-up ministry? Give a description.
15. Does the church have a strong ministry of assimilation to incorporate new members?
16. What are the five primary focus ministries of the church?
17. What do you perceive as barriers for growth?
18. How effectively is the church staffed for growth?
19. Are the building facilities conducive for growth?
20. In your assessment:
What did you learn about the church and its ministries, especially in evangelism?
Where do you think the church will be five years from now if it keeps doing what its doing now?
What do you see as weaknesses of the church? And why?
What recommendations will you offer for the church to continue to grow and be vital? And why?
D. Grading System
Grading Standards:
A=exceeds expectation for Course of Study), B= expected quality for COS, C=passing work but not of expected quality, D=unacceptable quality (no credit), F = fail.
The final grade will be calculated as follows:
50% Homework
25% Assignments written and completed during the module
25% Class participation
E. HOMEWORK DUE DATE:
At the first session, all book reviews are due.
At the second session, the church visit is due—along with any other assigned work.
Monday, March 9, 2009
113 Pastoral Care for Spiritual Formation
COURSE OF STUDY SCHOOL 2009
Illinois Great Rivers Conference
113 Pastoral Care for Spiritual Formation
YEAR ONE
(Session I, September 11-12, October 2-3, 2009)
All classes held at the United Methodist Conference Center
5900 S. 2nd Street
Springfield, IL 62711
217-529-2040
Instructor: Rev. Linda Horrell, M. Div., BCC, M.S.W., LCSW
Office: 636-527-7615 or 314-647-4693
e-mail:lhorrell@hotmail.com Fax: 314-645-4009
Center for Counseling and Pastoral Care
121 Creve Coeur Avenue
Manchester, MO 63011
www.ccpcstl.org
Availability: Please contact me if you have any questions. I accept any assignments via e-mail and “snail mail” and Fax for early revisions and comments.
113 Pastoral Care for Spiritual Formation
This class will be an exploration of the caring presence and actions of the pastor as a form of spiritual leadership and formation. Skills of effective pastoral care will be present and practiced, including effective listening and response skills, awareness of cultural difference, timely intervention, and appropriate referral. Students will be encouraged to reflect on their personal strengths, need for growth in developing relational skills, self-care and the development of personal spiritual practices---all in the context of the community of faith.
A. Course Objectives
Development of the pastor’s identity as a spiritual leader and caregiver, with emphasis in the need for continuing spiritual and professional growth.
Instruction, practice and feedback on basic communication skills including verbal and non-verbal communication.
Examination of basic methods for dealing with developmental issues and life crises, including when and how to refer to other sources of assistance.
Exploration of ethical issues including confidentiality, personal and professional boundaries, and the pastor’s legal responsibilities.
Introduction to Wesleyan understanding of spirituality and spiritual practice.
Exploration of the role of prayer, Scripture and the spiritual resources of the faith community in pastoral care.
Books
Campbell, Ernest T. Where Cross the Crowded Ways: Prayers of a City Pastor. New York, Eerdmans, 2005. Revised Edition.
Patton, John. Pastoral Care in Context: An Introduction to Pastoral Care.
Louisville: Westminster/John Knox Press, 1993. (ISBN 0664220346)
Soelle, Dorothee. Suffering. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1975. (ISBN 0800619130)
Stairs, Jean. Listening for the Soul: Pastoral Care and Spiritual Direction. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, (ISBN 0-800006-3239-7)
Thompson, Marjorie. Companion in Christ: The way of Forgiveness. Nashville: Upper Room, 2002 (ISBN 0835809803)
Wuellner, Flora Slosson. Forgiveness, the Passionate Journey: Nine Steps of Forgiving through Jesus’ Beatitudes. Nashville: Upper Room, 2001 (ISBN 0835809455)
Supplementary Reading
Clinebell, Howard. Basic Types of Pastoral Counseling rev. and expanded. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1984. (ISBN 0687024927)
Glaz, Maxine and Mosessner, Jeanne Stevenson, Women in Travail and Transition. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1991. (ISBN 0800624203)
Hunter, Rodney (Editor). Dictionary of Pastoral Care and Counseling. Nashville, Abingdon Press, 1970.
(ISBN Paper edition 068710761X, Electronic edition 0687055725) This reference book in highly recommended for the library of every pastor. Please note that this important work is available paper or electronic format.
Taylor, Charles. The Skilled Pastor: Counseling as the Practice of Theology. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1991. (ISBN 0800625099)
B. Instructions
Please do all reading assignments before class
Complete written assignments and give credit to the ideas and words of others.
All assignments are to be typed on 8 ½ X 11 white paper. Use one side, double-spaced with one-inch margins and a 12-point font. Please indicate the assignment number you are answering and include your name on all of your work and staple papers together. Please cite all sources other than yourself in the APA style. For instance, if you quote Dorothee Soelle on Suffering, write (Soelle, p. 15-16) and then create a resource list, in alphabetical order, as the final page. Also check the APA style website for more information.
Any assignments may be sent to me early via e-mail, fax or mail for revisions. Late assignments will be accepted with half a letter grade dropped for every day it is late. Please notify me about all late work.
NOTE: Plagiarism is strictly prohibited. All instances will be reported to the Director of the Course of Study and punitive action will follow. Please consult me for guidance on how to avoid this critical error!
C. Assignments
Pastoral Care in Context
September 11
Assignments due: Write two to three paragraphs answering these questions that follow each chapter: question #1 on page 37, #5 on page 61, #5 on page 109, #5 on page 210, #3 on page 235.
Read Patton, Chapters 1, 2, 4, 8 & 9
Supplementary reading: Clinebell Chapter 2, 3 & 4, Glaz & Moessner, Part I
Additional Assignment:
Write two pages on how Thompson describes the main reason we might become unforgiving.
Read – Companions in Christ – This is an eight week study that I would like for you to start reading prior to class starting the week of August 15th (or earlier) so you are ready to discuss the first four weeks of “homework”. Read each week’s chapter on the first day (for example, August 15th) participate in spiritual exercises and journaling days 2-6 (August16th-20 and so on for the next consecutive weeks through September 11th), and we will meet on the seventh day of the fourth week (which will be September 11th) and again on the seventh day of the eighth week (which will be October 2nd).
Follow the guidelines that are suggested for writing letters of apology or letters of forgiveness. Please be ready to hand these in to me in a notebook or journal form that will be reviewed personally by the instructor, over-night and returned on September 12th.
September 12
Sermon due: Write and present a 5-10 minute sermon from the scripture passage of your choice. Think of one you might wish to present in the near future at your church. This sermon needs to reflect on the meaning of the passage for its day and your congregation’s needs. A 5 minute critique will follow. You will be graded on staying within the 10 minute time period, the presentation of the theological message, your ability to address the congregational needs, and on your ability to stay engaged with the supportive critiques of your peers. Additionally, choose a prayer from Campbell’s book at speaks to your sermon and congregation and read it aloud to the class sometime prior to the sermon or following it. You will not be timed while you read the prayer.
***See assignments below. I want each of you to think of a difficult subject that involves discussing the taboos of politics and religion (such as your view on the death sentence, abortion, homosexuality, immigration, gambling…something addressed on our Book of Resolutions. Decide on a topic, and then defend and present the opposite point of view as if it were your own. What could be a good topic? It could be the topic you wrote about in your journal on forgiveness. It could be about current topic you are struggling with in your congregation or within your family or family of origin. All topics and class discussions are to be held within the confidence and confines of the class. Remember, this is an opportunity to learn. I want you to integrate the readings into the discussion of your topic in order to address the points of view that differ from yours. This topic can be a theme that runs through all of your assignments, if you wish. NOTIFY THE CLASS ABOUT WHICH CONTROVERSIAL TOPIC YOU WILL PRESENT ON October 2nd ***
Suffering
October 2nd
Assignments due:
Write a two page paper of what Soelle describes on page 8 as “bloede”. Give your understanding of what Soelle means and how the three “operations” of translating, eliminating and naming mean to your own ministry as a United Methodist pastor and caregiver. Please give examples of your own life.
Write a two-page paper summarizing Chapter 3 and Soelle’s comments about prayer on page 86. In what ways do you understand that an “angel waits for us” when you pray with a parishioner?
Write a two-page paper summarizing Chapter 5, especially Soelle’s section on “The Cross”.
Write a two-page paper summarizing Chapter 6. Address the suffering you see in your community and what changes you see need to happen to prevent more suffering.
Read Soelle: Introduction, Chapter 3, 5, and 6
Supplementary reading: Taylor, Introduction-Chapter 2, Glaz Part II, Clinebell Chapter 7& 8
Additional Assignment:
Write a two page paper on how does the author talks about wounding and healing?
How does she think we need to find healing? How does she discuss forgiveness in abusive relationships? What is a “Shalom bringer”? Describe Wuellner’s views on intercessory prayer.
Extra Credit:
Choose a meditation at the end of any of the chapters and describe your experience in using them to deepen your understanding of giving and receiving forgiveness.
October 2rd
Role Playing: The class will be divided in two groups. Each group will be given a written case study situation in class. You and the students will have 10 minutes to reflect on the situation and role-play before the other group. This is an assignment to practice empathy, communication and objectification. The assignment will be a brief segment of class time.
Listening for the Soul
October 3rd
Assignments due:
Write a contemplative prayer for your worship service or for the visitation of the sick at home or in the hospital or choose one from Campbell’s book and write a brief reflection on it.
After reading Chapter 3 follow the instructions for this exercise by completely typing each sentence, 1-10, and completing each sentence, as you desire. (These will be shared in class)
Briefly describe what Stairs means by sabbath-keeping in Chapter 4. Give a one-page description of what the author means. Give a brief understanding of your Sabbath keeping.
Answer questions #4 and #5 in Chapter 6. Talk about the ways your congregation provides for the pastoral care of children and how Stairs strategies might be applied to your own situation.
Write three pages that respond to question #1 on page 151 in Chapter 5. Respond to the author’s question and identify the concerns of your own soul in your daily life and work. In what ways do you anticipate that this class will address some of these soul concerns?
Read Stair Chapter 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6
Supplementary Reading: Taylor Chapter 3, 4 & 5
October 3rd
Assignment due: Write a Letter to the Editor. Pick a controversial subject that you read in the news or discussed at Annual Conference. Imagine addressing a letter to the editor of the local paper, our conference Current newspaper or your local TV station. Make your address from a viewpoint as a United Methodist pastor or parishioner and portray the controversy from your viewpoint and your congregation’s (whether they agree or not). This will be presented in class. Then, be prepared to speak to us after the reading of your letter. The class will be ready to debate with you from the opposite viewpoint. You may use any books or Internet sites for information and statistics. Different forms of media may be used to represent your point of view, such as Power Point, video, music, or movie clip, for example. Time is absolutely of essence so your presentation must be no more than 10 minutes or you will lose points for over-time.
Grading Standards
A= exceeds expectations for the Course of Study, B= expected quality for COS, C= passing work but not of expected quality, D= unacceptable quality (no credit), F= fail
E. Due Dates for Assignments are as noted and highlighted above.
Illinois Great Rivers Conference
113 Pastoral Care for Spiritual Formation
YEAR ONE
(Session I, September 11-12, October 2-3, 2009)
All classes held at the United Methodist Conference Center
5900 S. 2nd Street
Springfield, IL 62711
217-529-2040
Instructor: Rev. Linda Horrell, M. Div., BCC, M.S.W., LCSW
Office: 636-527-7615 or 314-647-4693
e-mail:lhorrell@hotmail.com Fax: 314-645-4009
Center for Counseling and Pastoral Care
121 Creve Coeur Avenue
Manchester, MO 63011
www.ccpcstl.org
Availability: Please contact me if you have any questions. I accept any assignments via e-mail and “snail mail” and Fax for early revisions and comments.
113 Pastoral Care for Spiritual Formation
This class will be an exploration of the caring presence and actions of the pastor as a form of spiritual leadership and formation. Skills of effective pastoral care will be present and practiced, including effective listening and response skills, awareness of cultural difference, timely intervention, and appropriate referral. Students will be encouraged to reflect on their personal strengths, need for growth in developing relational skills, self-care and the development of personal spiritual practices---all in the context of the community of faith.
A. Course Objectives
Development of the pastor’s identity as a spiritual leader and caregiver, with emphasis in the need for continuing spiritual and professional growth.
Instruction, practice and feedback on basic communication skills including verbal and non-verbal communication.
Examination of basic methods for dealing with developmental issues and life crises, including when and how to refer to other sources of assistance.
Exploration of ethical issues including confidentiality, personal and professional boundaries, and the pastor’s legal responsibilities.
Introduction to Wesleyan understanding of spirituality and spiritual practice.
Exploration of the role of prayer, Scripture and the spiritual resources of the faith community in pastoral care.
Books
Campbell, Ernest T. Where Cross the Crowded Ways: Prayers of a City Pastor. New York, Eerdmans, 2005. Revised Edition.
Patton, John. Pastoral Care in Context: An Introduction to Pastoral Care.
Louisville: Westminster/John Knox Press, 1993. (ISBN 0664220346)
Soelle, Dorothee. Suffering. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1975. (ISBN 0800619130)
Stairs, Jean. Listening for the Soul: Pastoral Care and Spiritual Direction. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, (ISBN 0-800006-3239-7)
Thompson, Marjorie. Companion in Christ: The way of Forgiveness. Nashville: Upper Room, 2002 (ISBN 0835809803)
Wuellner, Flora Slosson. Forgiveness, the Passionate Journey: Nine Steps of Forgiving through Jesus’ Beatitudes. Nashville: Upper Room, 2001 (ISBN 0835809455)
Supplementary Reading
Clinebell, Howard. Basic Types of Pastoral Counseling rev. and expanded. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1984. (ISBN 0687024927)
Glaz, Maxine and Mosessner, Jeanne Stevenson, Women in Travail and Transition. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1991. (ISBN 0800624203)
Hunter, Rodney (Editor). Dictionary of Pastoral Care and Counseling. Nashville, Abingdon Press, 1970.
(ISBN Paper edition 068710761X, Electronic edition 0687055725) This reference book in highly recommended for the library of every pastor. Please note that this important work is available paper or electronic format.
Taylor, Charles. The Skilled Pastor: Counseling as the Practice of Theology. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1991. (ISBN 0800625099)
B. Instructions
Please do all reading assignments before class
Complete written assignments and give credit to the ideas and words of others.
All assignments are to be typed on 8 ½ X 11 white paper. Use one side, double-spaced with one-inch margins and a 12-point font. Please indicate the assignment number you are answering and include your name on all of your work and staple papers together. Please cite all sources other than yourself in the APA style. For instance, if you quote Dorothee Soelle on Suffering, write (Soelle, p. 15-16) and then create a resource list, in alphabetical order, as the final page. Also check the APA style website for more information.
Any assignments may be sent to me early via e-mail, fax or mail for revisions. Late assignments will be accepted with half a letter grade dropped for every day it is late. Please notify me about all late work.
NOTE: Plagiarism is strictly prohibited. All instances will be reported to the Director of the Course of Study and punitive action will follow. Please consult me for guidance on how to avoid this critical error!
C. Assignments
Pastoral Care in Context
September 11
Assignments due: Write two to three paragraphs answering these questions that follow each chapter: question #1 on page 37, #5 on page 61, #5 on page 109, #5 on page 210, #3 on page 235.
Read Patton, Chapters 1, 2, 4, 8 & 9
Supplementary reading: Clinebell Chapter 2, 3 & 4, Glaz & Moessner, Part I
Additional Assignment:
Write two pages on how Thompson describes the main reason we might become unforgiving.
Read – Companions in Christ – This is an eight week study that I would like for you to start reading prior to class starting the week of August 15th (or earlier) so you are ready to discuss the first four weeks of “homework”. Read each week’s chapter on the first day (for example, August 15th) participate in spiritual exercises and journaling days 2-6 (August16th-20 and so on for the next consecutive weeks through September 11th), and we will meet on the seventh day of the fourth week (which will be September 11th) and again on the seventh day of the eighth week (which will be October 2nd).
Follow the guidelines that are suggested for writing letters of apology or letters of forgiveness. Please be ready to hand these in to me in a notebook or journal form that will be reviewed personally by the instructor, over-night and returned on September 12th.
September 12
Sermon due: Write and present a 5-10 minute sermon from the scripture passage of your choice. Think of one you might wish to present in the near future at your church. This sermon needs to reflect on the meaning of the passage for its day and your congregation’s needs. A 5 minute critique will follow. You will be graded on staying within the 10 minute time period, the presentation of the theological message, your ability to address the congregational needs, and on your ability to stay engaged with the supportive critiques of your peers. Additionally, choose a prayer from Campbell’s book at speaks to your sermon and congregation and read it aloud to the class sometime prior to the sermon or following it. You will not be timed while you read the prayer.
***See assignments below. I want each of you to think of a difficult subject that involves discussing the taboos of politics and religion (such as your view on the death sentence, abortion, homosexuality, immigration, gambling…something addressed on our Book of Resolutions. Decide on a topic, and then defend and present the opposite point of view as if it were your own. What could be a good topic? It could be the topic you wrote about in your journal on forgiveness. It could be about current topic you are struggling with in your congregation or within your family or family of origin. All topics and class discussions are to be held within the confidence and confines of the class. Remember, this is an opportunity to learn. I want you to integrate the readings into the discussion of your topic in order to address the points of view that differ from yours. This topic can be a theme that runs through all of your assignments, if you wish. NOTIFY THE CLASS ABOUT WHICH CONTROVERSIAL TOPIC YOU WILL PRESENT ON October 2nd ***
Suffering
October 2nd
Assignments due:
Write a two page paper of what Soelle describes on page 8 as “bloede”. Give your understanding of what Soelle means and how the three “operations” of translating, eliminating and naming mean to your own ministry as a United Methodist pastor and caregiver. Please give examples of your own life.
Write a two-page paper summarizing Chapter 3 and Soelle’s comments about prayer on page 86. In what ways do you understand that an “angel waits for us” when you pray with a parishioner?
Write a two-page paper summarizing Chapter 5, especially Soelle’s section on “The Cross”.
Write a two-page paper summarizing Chapter 6. Address the suffering you see in your community and what changes you see need to happen to prevent more suffering.
Read Soelle: Introduction, Chapter 3, 5, and 6
Supplementary reading: Taylor, Introduction-Chapter 2, Glaz Part II, Clinebell Chapter 7& 8
Additional Assignment:
Write a two page paper on how does the author talks about wounding and healing?
How does she think we need to find healing? How does she discuss forgiveness in abusive relationships? What is a “Shalom bringer”? Describe Wuellner’s views on intercessory prayer.
Extra Credit:
Choose a meditation at the end of any of the chapters and describe your experience in using them to deepen your understanding of giving and receiving forgiveness.
October 2rd
Role Playing: The class will be divided in two groups. Each group will be given a written case study situation in class. You and the students will have 10 minutes to reflect on the situation and role-play before the other group. This is an assignment to practice empathy, communication and objectification. The assignment will be a brief segment of class time.
Listening for the Soul
October 3rd
Assignments due:
Write a contemplative prayer for your worship service or for the visitation of the sick at home or in the hospital or choose one from Campbell’s book and write a brief reflection on it.
After reading Chapter 3 follow the instructions for this exercise by completely typing each sentence, 1-10, and completing each sentence, as you desire. (These will be shared in class)
Briefly describe what Stairs means by sabbath-keeping in Chapter 4. Give a one-page description of what the author means. Give a brief understanding of your Sabbath keeping.
Answer questions #4 and #5 in Chapter 6. Talk about the ways your congregation provides for the pastoral care of children and how Stairs strategies might be applied to your own situation.
Write three pages that respond to question #1 on page 151 in Chapter 5. Respond to the author’s question and identify the concerns of your own soul in your daily life and work. In what ways do you anticipate that this class will address some of these soul concerns?
Read Stair Chapter 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6
Supplementary Reading: Taylor Chapter 3, 4 & 5
October 3rd
Assignment due: Write a Letter to the Editor. Pick a controversial subject that you read in the news or discussed at Annual Conference. Imagine addressing a letter to the editor of the local paper, our conference Current newspaper or your local TV station. Make your address from a viewpoint as a United Methodist pastor or parishioner and portray the controversy from your viewpoint and your congregation’s (whether they agree or not). This will be presented in class. Then, be prepared to speak to us after the reading of your letter. The class will be ready to debate with you from the opposite viewpoint. You may use any books or Internet sites for information and statistics. Different forms of media may be used to represent your point of view, such as Power Point, video, music, or movie clip, for example. Time is absolutely of essence so your presentation must be no more than 10 minutes or you will lose points for over-time.
Grading Standards
A= exceeds expectations for the Course of Study, B= expected quality for COS, C= passing work but not of expected quality, D= unacceptable quality (no credit), F= fail
E. Due Dates for Assignments are as noted and highlighted above.
COS 312: the Reformation Sept. 11-12, 2009 Oct. 2-3, 2009
COS 312: the Reformation
Sept. 11-12, 2009
Oct. 2-3, 2009
OVERVIEW: This course seeks to introduce the student to that part of our Christian heritage which is known as the sixteenth century Reformation. A major focus will be placed upon the lives of Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, and John Calvin as representatives of the times. Attention will also be given to reforms within Catholicism as well as the so-called “Radical Reformation.” A major emphasis of the course will be on how the various theologies that emerge from the Reformation impact church life today.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Analyze the period leading up to the Reformation.
2. Critically engage the theologies of Luther, Zwingli, Calvin, and the Anabaptists.
3. Recognize the historical context for the major theological concerns, such as justification by grace through faith.
4. Note the outward influences upon the Reformation as it came into contact with Italy, England, France and the Netherlands.
5. Demonstrate areas where the Reformation continues to impact the Church today.
BOOKS:
1. Alister McGrath, Reformation Thought [third edition] (Blackwell, 1999) ISBN: 0-631-21521-2
2. Justo Gonzalez, The Story of Christianity vol.2: the Reformation to the Present Day (HarperCollins, 1985) ISBN: 0-06-063316-6
3. Martin Luther, Three Treatises (Fortress, 1970) ISBN: 0-8006-1639-1
4. Elsie McKee, ed. John Calvin: Writings on Pastoral Piety (Paulist Press, 2001) ISBN: 0-8091-4046-2
5. Carter Lindberg, ed. The European Reformations Sourcebook (Blackwell, 2000) ISBN: 978-0-631-21362-8
ASSIGNMENTS:
1. Describe Luther’s concept of Church and State. What would have been said about the use of religion by the Democratic and Republican parties today? (4 pages)
2. What is Calvin’s doctrine of the Church? Show how this directed his prayers, sermons, and order of worship. How applicable is his doctrine to your work as a pastor? (4 pages)
3. How did late medieval religion, humanism, and scholasticism all provide a background to the events of the Reformation? Are there similar movements which show the need for a new reformation today? (2 pages)
4. Explain the differences between the Catholic and Luther’s doctrine of justification by faith. Why was this such a central issue for Luther? Is this still an issue today? Explain. (4 pages)
5. Distinguish between Luther, Zwingli, and the Catholic view of the Lord’s Supper. Explain how these views concur or differ from your experience of the Lord’s Supper. (4 pages)
6. Describe how events in John Calvin’s life helped him to form his conception of the sovereignty of God. How did this lead to Calvin’s view on predestination? Compare this doctrine with Paul’s statements in Rom. 9-11 and Eph.1. (4 pages)
7. Describe the connection between Zwingli and the Anabaptist movement. Where did the Anabaptists disagree with Zwingli? Would their form of Church discipline work in your congregation today? (2 pages)
8. What role did politics play in the start of the English Reformation? Who were the main figures who shaped English theology? Does this tell us anything about how close or distant the Church should be from the State today? (2 pages)
9. Who are the main figures in the Catholic Reformation? How does the Catholic doctrine of Scripture differ from the Protestants? How is their struggle to reform while maintaining tradition mirrored in the United Methodist Church today? (4 pages)
Assignments 1-6 due on Sept. 11th
Assignments 7-9 due on Oct.2nd
Sept. 11-12, 2009
Oct. 2-3, 2009
OVERVIEW: This course seeks to introduce the student to that part of our Christian heritage which is known as the sixteenth century Reformation. A major focus will be placed upon the lives of Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, and John Calvin as representatives of the times. Attention will also be given to reforms within Catholicism as well as the so-called “Radical Reformation.” A major emphasis of the course will be on how the various theologies that emerge from the Reformation impact church life today.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Analyze the period leading up to the Reformation.
2. Critically engage the theologies of Luther, Zwingli, Calvin, and the Anabaptists.
3. Recognize the historical context for the major theological concerns, such as justification by grace through faith.
4. Note the outward influences upon the Reformation as it came into contact with Italy, England, France and the Netherlands.
5. Demonstrate areas where the Reformation continues to impact the Church today.
BOOKS:
1. Alister McGrath, Reformation Thought [third edition] (Blackwell, 1999) ISBN: 0-631-21521-2
2. Justo Gonzalez, The Story of Christianity vol.2: the Reformation to the Present Day (HarperCollins, 1985) ISBN: 0-06-063316-6
3. Martin Luther, Three Treatises (Fortress, 1970) ISBN: 0-8006-1639-1
4. Elsie McKee, ed. John Calvin: Writings on Pastoral Piety (Paulist Press, 2001) ISBN: 0-8091-4046-2
5. Carter Lindberg, ed. The European Reformations Sourcebook (Blackwell, 2000) ISBN: 978-0-631-21362-8
ASSIGNMENTS:
1. Describe Luther’s concept of Church and State. What would have been said about the use of religion by the Democratic and Republican parties today? (4 pages)
2. What is Calvin’s doctrine of the Church? Show how this directed his prayers, sermons, and order of worship. How applicable is his doctrine to your work as a pastor? (4 pages)
3. How did late medieval religion, humanism, and scholasticism all provide a background to the events of the Reformation? Are there similar movements which show the need for a new reformation today? (2 pages)
4. Explain the differences between the Catholic and Luther’s doctrine of justification by faith. Why was this such a central issue for Luther? Is this still an issue today? Explain. (4 pages)
5. Distinguish between Luther, Zwingli, and the Catholic view of the Lord’s Supper. Explain how these views concur or differ from your experience of the Lord’s Supper. (4 pages)
6. Describe how events in John Calvin’s life helped him to form his conception of the sovereignty of God. How did this lead to Calvin’s view on predestination? Compare this doctrine with Paul’s statements in Rom. 9-11 and Eph.1. (4 pages)
7. Describe the connection between Zwingli and the Anabaptist movement. Where did the Anabaptists disagree with Zwingli? Would their form of Church discipline work in your congregation today? (2 pages)
8. What role did politics play in the start of the English Reformation? Who were the main figures who shaped English theology? Does this tell us anything about how close or distant the Church should be from the State today? (2 pages)
9. Who are the main figures in the Catholic Reformation? How does the Catholic doctrine of Scripture differ from the Protestants? How is their struggle to reform while maintaining tradition mirrored in the United Methodist Church today? (4 pages)
Assignments 1-6 due on Sept. 11th
Assignments 7-9 due on Oct.2nd
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