REL - Religion

This course trains intercultural workers in key issues and strategies for developing church leaders within American ethnic populations and the overseas church as well as how to create an environment for unleashing their God given gifts. The difference between men and women in positions of leadership and managerial styles will be explored from a cross-cultural perspective.

This course focuses on the questions What is ministry? and What is my call to ministry? Attention is given to the requirements and expectations of various ministry vocations. Personal callings are explored with the goal of achieving greater individual clarity on a biblical, theological, and practical understanding of calling and how it is expressing itself in the student's life. Open to those who have an interest in serving God as volunteers or as paid ministers. Co-requisite: CED-225, REL-240, WOR-235, or YTH-230.

A survey of the challenges and opportunities available to women married to ministers. The course will emphasize personal growth, marriage fulfillment, home management, and church relations.

This course examines the various roles which women have traditionally served in ministry. It also explores the changing role of women in ministry and seeks to anticipate the shape of women's ministries in the future.

This course is an introductory study into the nature of spiritual formation and the various ways that Christians have sought to deepen their relationship with God in order to be conformed to the life of Christ. Special emphasis will be given to using the practice of spiritual disciplines and prayer in Christian life. Not open to students with credit in REL-226 or REL-227.

Religion has played a central role in the shaping of America. Students will explore issues such as the following: Religion in 21st Century America: Is America still religious?; American Churches: Where did all the churches come from?; World Religions in America: How do the religions get along in America?; Pivotal People, Ideas, and Events: What were the Great Awakenings and why do they matter?; Finding God in America: Where is God in America?

An experential study of personal spiritual formation; designed to encourage practices that promote a vibrant life-long relationship with Jesus Christ. Fee required.

Christian Spirituality is an introduction to personal spiritual formation, including spiritual health and the practice of spiritual disciplines. Students may not receive credit for both REL 226 and REL 227. Prerequisites BIL 101 or BIL-111, BIL 102 or BIL-112 or their equivalents.

This course is designed to help Christians meet the Biblical imperative to "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have" (1 Peter 3:15). Students will examine some of the latest historical, philosophical, and scientific evidence that can be used to bolster arguments in favor of the Christian faith.

This course examines the basic beliefs of historic Christianity as summarized in the Apostles' Creed and connects them to Christian practices. Specifically, the doctrines of revelation, God, creation, fall, and sin, the person and work of Christ, the person and work of the Holy Spirit, the church, salvation, and human destiny will be covered. Focus will be placed on the common understanding of Christian theology in the major Christian theological traditions, while also taking note of their distinctive beliefs.

This course examines the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of Christian worship and rituals in order for each student to derive a practice of worship which is culturally relevant yet rooted in the rich tradition of the ages. This course moves from theory to practice with actual preparation for leading worship. Co-requisite: REL-235P.

Each student will be involved in practical experiences in a local ministry setting providing the student with a "laboratory" for the application of the principles of Christian worship as taught in the co-requisite course. Co-requisite: REL-235.

This course examines the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of Christian worship. Students will study the practices and rituals of Christian worship in order to facilitate corporate worship that is both culturally relevant and rooted in the rich tradition of the ages. Students will move from theory to practice by leading various elements of worship in a local church and reflecting on those experiences as part of the course.

This course explores the principles and practices of faithful and effective ministry in context. Students are grounded in a biblical understanding of contextualization and equipped to take into account religious, social and demographic variables in a diversity of cultural contexts and to develop appropriate strategies for church ministries, global outreach and Christian service. This Theory and Practice course requires at least 25% of the assigned out of class work to be completed in a ministry setting.

A survey of the major events, persons and ideas of the Christian community from the Apostolic age to the present. Special attention will be given to the Reformation era and the history of American Christianity. Prerequisites: BIL-101 or BIL-111 and BIL-102 or BIL-112 or their equivalents

This course provides an introduction to professional ministry as a life's calling and vocation. It gives special attention to personal spiritual development, acquisition of personal ministry skills, an understanding of the ministry as a profession, the requirements and expectations of various denominations for ordination and lay vocations. The course also explores the meaning of calling, vocation and profession from historical and contemporary perspectives, leading toward the development of the initial skills and attitudes toward becoming a professional minister. Co-requisite: REL-264P.

Each student will be involved in practical experiences observing ministry, "shadowing" a minister and interviewing professional clergy in a local setting providing the student with a "laboratory" for the application of ministry principles taught in the co-requisite course. Co-requisite: REL-264.

This course introduces students to professional ministry as a life calling and vocation. It addresses personal spiritual development, acquisition of personal ministry skills, an understanding of the ministry as a profession, and the requirements of various denominations for ordination and lay vocations. The course explores the meaning and practice of vocation and ministry from biblical, historical, and theological perspectives. Each student will be involved in a local church observing ministry, interviewing and shadowing a pastor, and applying lessons from the course to specific ministry tasks. Not open to students with a satisfactory grade in REL264. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all major courses.

This course is an Christian examination of the questions of paradox, personhood, poverty, suffering and human rights as they relate to church-based ministry in the urban context. Students will also engage in discussions and study regarding issues relating to civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, and how churches in an urban context should respond to them. Additional fees are required. Co-requisite: REL-266P.

This course is an Christian examination of the questions of paradox, personhood, poverty, suffering and human rights as they relate to church-based ministry in the urban context. Students will also engage in discussions and study regarding issues relating to civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, and how churches in an urban context should respond to them. Additional fees are required. Co-requisite: REL-266P.

Each student will be involved in a supervised church-based practicum ministry assignment in an urban setting. This placement must provide the student with a laboratory for the application of the theology and practice of urban social ministry as taught in the co-requisite course. Additional fees are required. Co-requisite: REL-266.

Each student will be involved in a supervised church-based practicum ministry assignment in an urban setting. This placement must provide the student with a laboratory for the application of the theology and practice of urban social ministry as taught in the co-requisite course. Additional fees are required. Co-requisite: REL-266.

This course will examine the principles and practices of evangelism and discipleship in contemporary contexts. Attention is given to both the historical patterns which shaped outreach endeavors as well as several methodologies which have been and are being used by various church based organizations for people of various ages and backgrounds. This Theory and Practice course requires at least 25% of the assigned out of class work to be completed in a ministry setting.

Beginning with biblical times, this course examines the history of missions and outreach movements. Attention is given to both the historical patterns which shaped outreach endeavors as well as the several methodologies which have been and are being used by various outreach organizations. Co-requisite: REL-275P. Meets General Education intercultural requirement.

Each student will be involved in practical experiences in a local ministry setting providing the student with a "laboratory" for the application of the principles of evangelism and global outreach as taught in the co-requisite course. Co-requisite: REL-275.

This course introduces the student to urban ministries through first-hand exposure of church-based community organizations, and through an evaluation of various urban ministry techniques and strategies currently being used to bring hope and wholeness to the people of the urban centers.

This course introduces the student to urban ministries through first-hand exposure of church-based community organizations, and through an evaluation of various urban ministry techniques and strategies currently being used to bring hope and wholeness to the people of the urban centers.

This course examines the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of the church's mission of evangelism and global outreach. Beginning with the biblical evidence, students will study the history of evangelism and missions by exploring the historical contexts that shaped mission and the various outreach methods used by churches and parachurch organizations. The course will discuss specific contemporary challenges facing the church's evangelistic mission in America and the special challenges of cross-cultural ministry. Each student will participate in practical experiences with a local ministry, providing opportunities to apply key principles of evangelism and global outreach. Not open to students with a satisfactory grade in REL275. Prerequisites: BIL-201 or BIL-202, MIN-268.

A study of the principles of constructing and delivering expository sermons, discipleship group presentations, and devotionals. Original sermons, lessons, and devotionals are prepared and presented with critiques and suggestions for improvements. Primary focus is on theory of homiletics and Christian education with practical implementation in church settings. This course is designed to integrate all previous theological education into meaningful practice. Prerequisite: BIL-201 or BIL-202.

This course will introduce the history, religions, and modern politics of Jerusalem by taking an in-depth look at the city from its initial settlement through the modern era. Particular attention will be given to Jerusalem's historic and theological role in the development and practice of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

This course will introduce the history, religions, and modern politics of Jerusalem by taking an in-depth look at the city from its initial settlement through the modern era. Particular attention will be given to Jerusalem's historic and theological role in the development and practice of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

A sweeping account of strategic events, personalities, and issues that have led to today's Christian world. Various geographical regions will be examined with focused attention given to the major branches of Christianity (Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and the Western Church). The role of other Christian communities of the east and the west will also be considered.

A sweeping account of strategic events, personalities, and issues that have shaped Protestant Christianity from the Reformation to the present. Special attention will be given to the Reformation and Protestantism's migration from Europe to the United States. Representative Protestant denominations in the United States will be examined in their historical and cultural context.

This course provides an overview of the history of the early church from the first century to Augustine in the fifth century. It emphasizes the relationship between church and state, and between Christianity and pagan culture. The course also discloses the martyrs, the heroes of faith, theologians, and apologists, and explains the development of doctrine and church organization in the middle of the complex and conflicted world of those centuries.

This course is an introductory study into the nature of spiritual formation and the various ways that Christians have sought to deepen their relationship with God in order to be conformed to the life of Christ. Special emphasis will be given to using the practice of spiritual disciplines and prayer in Christian life. Not open to students with credit in REL-226 or REL-227.

This course provides an overview of the history of the early church from the first century to Augustine in the fifth century. It emphasizes the relationship between church and state, and between Christianity and pagan culture. The course also discloses the martyrs, the heroes of faith, theologians, and apologists and explains the development of doctrine and church organization in the middle of the complex and conflicted world of those centuries.

This course evaluates how the church has historically responded to questions related to the issues of race, class, and gender as well as how these issues have influenced Christian witness and vocation across time. Extended attention will be given to current challenges that face the church and the society regarding issues of race, class and gender. Prerequisites: BIL-101, BIL-102, THE-101.

This course explores both a theological and practical understanding of the relationship that potentially exists between human suffering and hope. Students will use Scripture, theology and contemporary research to build a redemptive view of pain, trauma and loss. Collectively they will explore the wide range of trauma that humans are exposed to including, but not limited to, illness, abuse, sexual exploitation, loss, terrorism and natural disasters. Each student will then select one form of suffering and assess the forms of help that bring the suffering into redemptive hope. Prerequisite: THE-101.

Realizing that the medium of film has become the principal mass vehicle for the transmission of philosophical and theological ideas, this course will study a variety of films with the intent to identify ontological, epistemological, and ethical presentations of both Christian and non-Christian world views. Prerequisite: PHL-180.

A study of the major events, personalities, and issues of church history from the Apostolic Age to Luther. Special attention is given to the teachings of the church fathers and the Protestant reformers. Open to juniors and seniors.

A study of the major events, personalities, and issues of church history from the Protestant Reformation to present times. Special attention is given to American church history and contemporary trends. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: REL-331.

This course provides a comparison between Catholic and Protestant doctrines, with emphasis on the differences to be found in doctrines of salvation, revelation, mediators, and church polity. Variances in doctrinal and practical issues will be discussed as well as areas of cooperation within a Latin American context.

This course will expose the student to a myriad of potential sports ministry models. It will also explore the nature and dynamics of quality sports ministry in various settings with a view to equip students to create, expand, and sustain effective sport ministries.

This course will explore the theoretical foundations and practical methods of evangelism and discipleship in a sports ministry context. It will equip students to practical personal evangelism/discipleship as well as plan and execute evangelistic and spiritually formative sports ministries.

This course explores tenets of the Christian faith as it relates to health, healing, and care ministry. It is designed to assist students in developing a theological framework for integrating their understanding of the nature of God; the nature of spiritual forces; the problem of suffering; and the hope and meaning of health, wholeness, and maturity. Selected experiential or virtual learning will be included in this course. Prerequisite: REL-232 or REL-233

This internship will provide the student with an overview of how the personal faith of business leaders informs and directs their particular business. Students will be directly involved in the life and flow of a local business including times for guidance, evaluation, and reflection by the primary supervisor and by other appropriate business leaders. Prerequisite: REL-200 or by permission of the professor.

Each student will be involved in practical experience in a local church, providing that student with a "laboratory" for the application of principles taught in other classes. Some will serve student pastorates with congregational observers assisting the instructor, and others will serve under the supervision of an experienced pastor. Open to juniors and seniors.

Each student will be involved in practical experience in a local church, providing that student with a "laboratory" for the application of principles taught in other classes. Some will serve student pastorates with congregational observers assisting the instructor, and others will serve under the supervision of an experienced pastor. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: REL-361.

Each student will be involved in practical experience in a local church, providing that student with a "laboratory" for the application of principles taught in other classes. Some will serve student pastorates with congregational observers assisting the instructor, and others will serve under the supervision of an experienced pastor. Open to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite: REL-362.

A comprehensive study of the types of sermons and the principles of construction and delivery. The minister's call and preparation of his life's work will be considered. Original sermons are prepared, and some of them are delivered before the class under the supervision of the instructor with critiques and suggestions for improvements. This Theory and Practice course requires at least 25% of the assigned out of class work to be completed in a ministry setting. Open to juniors and seniors. Limited to majors and minors in the Division of Practical Theology unless permission is granted by the Division. Prerequisite: BIL-202.

A comprehensive study of the types of sermons and the principles of constructing and delivering expository sermons. Original sermons are prepared, and some of them are delivered before the class under the supervision of the instructor with critiques and suggestions for improvements. Open to juniors and seniors. Limited to majors and minors in the Division of Practical Theology unless granted by the Division. Prerequisite: REL-365. Co-requisite: REL-366P.

Each student will be involved in practical experiences in a local ministry setting providing the student with a "laboratory" for a preaching and teaching ministry with opportunity for gathering feedback and developing a personal plan for improvement. Prerequisite: REL-365; Co-requisite: REL-366 or YTH-366.

A study of the biblical and theological framework of pastoral counseling. The course will cover most of the typical counseling problems faced by the local pastor, including pre-marital counseling, hospital visitation and grief counseling. This Theory and Practice course requires at least 25% of the assigned out of class work to be completed in a ministry setting. Only open to Juniors and Seniors.

This course provides an overview of the global expansion of Christianity from apostolic times to the present day. This is accomplished by focusing on core elements and prominent characteristics of Christian faith and practices, featuring key persons that have contributed to spreading Christianity around the world, and promoting reflection regarding how it is contextualized in each place and time.

This course provides an overview of the global expansion of Christianity from apostolic times to the present day. This is accomplished by focusing on core elements and prominent characteristics of Christian faith and practices, featuring key persons that have contributed to spreading Christianity around the world, and promoting reflection regarding how it is contextualized in each place and time.

A sweeping account of strategic events, persons, movements, texts, and issues that have shaped Christian faith and praxis from the early Church to the twenty-first century. Various geographical regions will be examined, with attention to how diverse historical and cultural contexts have shaped the global Christian Church.

A sweeping account of significant events, persons, movements, texts, and issues that have shaped religious practices and belief systems in the modern Middle East. The Christian faith and praxis in Middle East from the early Church to the twenty-first century will be examined. Focused attention will be given to the various Christian communities found in the Holy Land and the current challenges that faces the Christian Church in the Middle East. This course is part of the Summer in the Holy Lands Program.

This seminar will examine life habits (personal, spiritual, professional) that create long-term success in ministry. In addition, this course will address issues related to ministerial job placement including but not limited to preparing resumes, networking, interviewing skills, compensation and benefits, and job expectations. Open to junior students enrolled in a major or minor in the school of Theology and Ministry.

A sweeping account of strategic events, persons, movements, texts, and issues that have shaped Protestant Christianity from the sixteenth to the twenty-first centuries. THe major Protestant traditions will be traced from their European origins through their development in the United States. Special attention is given to the denominational and cultural diversity of American Protestantism, and the influence of Protestant Christianity on major events in American History.

Students will work under a faculty mentor in their major and in cooperation with an Honors College advisor, producing a research thesis or creative project.

A study of the major events, personalities, and issues of church history from the Apostolic Age to Luther. Special attention is given to the teachings of the church fathers and the Protestant reformers. Open to juniors and seniors.

This course provides a comparison between Catholic and Protestant doctrines, with emphasis on the differences to be found in doctrines of salvation, revelation, mediators, and church polity. Variances in doctrinal and practical issues will be discussed as well as areas of cooperation within a Latin American context.

This integrative seminar is structured to facilitate students' analysis and synthesis of how their citizenship in God's kingdom calls them to a life of Christian virtue and servant leadership in the midst of a pluralistic world. The culmination of the course is a faith integration paper that requires students to articulate how a Christian way of life can be lived out in the civil and sacred communities to which they will belong. Prerequisites: BIL-101, BIL-102 and THE-101. Credit/no credit.

A study of the major faith systems of the world and their impact, with an emphasis on their influence on North American culture. Prerequisite: BIL-102 or permission of the Department.

An intensive study of soteriology, including the doctrines of sin, prevenient grace, justification, sanctification and glorification from a Biblical, historical and practical perspective. The Wesleyan Arminian tradition will provide the theological framework for this course, we will examine other theological views from this perspective. Special attention will be given to John Wesley's doctrine of holiness. Prerequisite: REL-233 or REL-232.

A study of the history of The Wesleyan Church from its roots in the ministry of John Wesley through the development of early American Methodism and the American holiness movement to the emergence of the Wesleyan Methodist Church and the Pilgrim Holiness Church, their merger in 1968, and the subsequent progress of The Wesleyan Church. Further, a study of the form of church government which has evolved during the history of The Wesleyan Church as it is defined in the current book of Discipline. Open to juniors and seniors.

This course is a study of the history of The Wesleyan Church and its polity with the past providing a basis of discussion for the future of the church. Students will explore the work of the Wesleys and the Methodist movement, along with the abolitionist and revivalist streams that flowed into the denomination. Students will also explore The Discipline with particular attention on the constitution of The Wesleyan Church and its impact on local churches today. Finally, students will reflect on their own calling as world changers and ordained leaders within The Wesleyan Church. Not open to students with credit in REL-431 or REL-432.

A comprehensive study of the fundamental doctrines of the Judeo-Christian Scriptures from an evangelical Arminian viewpoint with other interpretations considered. The first semester will entail a study of theism, theology, cosmology, anthropology, hamartiology, and Christology. This course will embrace a study of soteriology, pneumatology, ecclesiology, and eschatology. In the College of Arts and Sciences, open to juniors and seniors.

This course explores the spiritual care of humans across the span of life. The aim will be to understand and practice God's care applied across the family life cycle as partners together in his work. Selected experiential or virtual learning will be included in this course. Prerequisite: REL-232 or REL-233

A comprehensive study of the types of sermons and the principles of construction and delivery. The minister's call and preparation of his life's work will be considered. Original sermons are prepared, and some of them are delivered before the class under the supervision of the instructor with critiques and suggestions for improvements. During the second semester, the class will basically be conducted as one class period and two laboratory periods. Open to juniors and seniors. Limited to majors and minors in the Division of Religion and Philosophy unless permission is granted by the Division. Prerequisite: BIL-202.

A comprehensive study of the types of sermons and the principles of constructing and delivering expository sermons. Original sermons are prepared, and some of them are delivered before the class under the supervision of the instructor with critiques and suggestions for improvements. Prerequisite: Open to juniors and seniors who have been admitted into the Christian Ministries, Christian Education, or Youth Ministries major. Prerequisite: REL-465 or YTH-270. Co-requisite: REL-466P.

Each student will be involved in practical experiences in a local ministry setting providing the student with a "laboratory" for a preaching and teaching ministry with opportunity for gathering feedback and developing a personal plan for improvement. Co-requisite: REL-466 or YTH-466.

A study of the principles of leadership for the pastor or other professional Christian workers in relation to local churches or other Christian organizations. Each student develops personal skills in self-management, budgeting, planning, organizing, recruiting and supervising volunteers, discerning vision for a ministry and leading deliberative bodies. Open to juniors and seniors in the Division of Practical Theology or by permission of the instructor. For Division of Practical Theology students, this Theory and Practice course requires 25% of the assigned out of class work to be completed in a ministry setting. This course is also only open to students in the Associate in Christian Ministries program (ASM), Bachelors in Biblical Studies (BSB) or upon approval of the Religion Department. Co-requisite for ASM and BSB students only: REL-468P.

Each student will be involved in practical experiences in a local ministry setting providing the student with a "laboratory" for the application of leadership and management principles taught in the co-requisite course. These experiences include observation of the leadership practices of a professional minister, practice in leading groups and deliberative bodies, and participation in other leadership activities such as budgeting, planning, organizing, recruiting and supervising volunteers, and leading deliberative bodies. Co-requisite: REL-468.

A study of the biblical framework and various theories of pastoral counseling. There will be a heavy emphasis on self-understanding as a prerequisite of effective counseling. The course will cover most of the typical counseling problems faced by the local pastor, including pre-marital counseling, hospital visitation and grief counseling. Only open to Juniors and Seniors. Co-requisite: REL-469P.

Each student will be involved in practical experiences in a local ministry setting providing the student with a "laboratory" for the application of pastoral care and counseling principles taught in the co-requisite course. Co-requisite: REL-469.

This course provides theological, theoretical, and practical foundations for effective pastoral care for individuals ranging from adulthood to the end of life. Developmental, family, and identity issues will be addressed. This course aims to guide the learners to become reflective practitioners of ministry to adults of all ages. Prerequisite: REL-370.

Individually arranged reading, research, problem-solving in theology, history, Christian education, missions, evangelism, philosophy, and other areas as related to the study of religion.

This course allows the student to be directly involved with set times for guidance, evaluation and reflection by the primary mentor and by other appropriate church leaders. This course may be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.

This course focuses on the dynamics of church outreach with special attention given to church planting. It examines strategies for helping the church multiply its ministries with the direct aim of replicating itself in order to widen and deepen the impact of the church in the community.

This capstone course for the Christian Ministries major will explore how those involved in full-time Christian ministry can effect change in their parish settings and mobilize the laity to become salt and light to the world. Each student will present a project of her/his own design to the class for evaluation. Restricted to seniors who have been admitted to the Christian Ministries major.

A reading and writing intensive course in the study of Biblically-oriented topics that serves as a capstone experience for Biblical Studies students. Topics may reflect contemporary issues or research in the wider discipline. Prerequisite: Successful completion of two 400 level Biblical Literature courses

This integrative seminar is structured to facilitate students' analysis and synthesis of the accumulation of learning gleaned throughout their undergraduate program in both academic and practical ministry settings. Aside from introducing processes for integration of learning, there is no new content in this course. The culmination of the course is an integrative project demonstrating the student's applied competency and integration of his/her biblical and theological training as well as his/her particular theological discipline. Open to senior status students who are enrolled in a major or minor in the School of Theology and Ministry.

Advanced independent studies. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing with a 3.0 GPA.

This course examines the major Christian theological and philosophical traditions. Students will examine core doctrines including the Triune God, Christology, soteriology, pneumatology, ecclesiology, and eschatology. Students will critically assess major philosophical movements and thinkers as they contribute to or challenge a Christian worldview.

This course introduces students to spiritual formation through communal and individual Christian practices. The course focuses on practices of devotion and practices of compassion that have been historically understood in the Christian church to be means of grace. Students are guided in the initial development of lifelong practices for Christian growth.

This course introduces students to the practice of spiritual direction. Ministers enrolled in the course will experience spiritual direction for their own lives and learn introductory concepts of spiritual direction for pastoral ministry to others.

This course introduces the student to the key events, individuals, and debates of global Christian history from the time of Jesus to the present day. Special attention is given to the worldwide church, as well as the development of Christian doctrines and practices in specific contexts.

This course provides an overview of the history of Christianity from the first century AD until the twentieth century, with emphasis on the development of the Church in its socio-political context, and the development of theology in the midst of pagan philosophies and heresies.

A study of the biblical and theological framework of congregational care. The course will provide an examination of the essential skills and predispositions that a pastor needs to care for a congregation in a manner that inspires spiritual formation, including: active listening, conflict resolution, effective use of prayer and Scripture in care settings and problem-solving.

This course is designed to introduce students to the principles, procedures, guidelines, and available resources for discipleship strategies within the local church. Students will also practice evangelism and discipleship in a local church context.

This course provides theological, theoretical, and practical foundations for effective pastoral care for individuals ranging from birth through the end of life. Development will be examined throughout the life-cycle. Concerning children and teens, this course will explore both healthy development and types of disabilities. Adulthood issues of development, identity, marriage and family will be addressed. This course aims to guide the learners to become reflective practitioners of ministry to all ages.

This course studies the historical, literary, and socio-cultural background of the Old Testament. Background literature and inscriptional evidence relevant to the Old Testament will be examined, as well as key historical events, figures, and locations. A possible timeline for the writing of the Old Testament books will be developed, engaging key critical theories. Prerequisite: BIL-101 and BIL-102; or BIL-500.

This course equips students with a working understanding of the rise and influence of North American Christianity including its socio-cultural contexts. Discussions will include Christian denominational movements in North American addressing their doctrinal, ecclesiological, and ethical differences. Spanning four centuries (from the early 1600's to the early 2000's), this course develops a historical understanding of the diversity of American Christianity by engaging in current ecclesiological discussions and case studies. Prerequisite: REL-510

This course studies the historical, literary, and socio-cultural background to the New Testament. Beginning with intertestamental Jewish literature and Jewish history in the Maccabean period, the course proceeds to the New Testament's first century Jewish and Greco-Roman context. A possible timeline for the writing of the New Testament books will be developed. Prerequisite: BIL-101 and BIL-102; or BIL-500.

This course explores the principles and practices of faithful and effective ministry in cultural context. Students are grounded in a biblical understanding of contextualization and equipped to take into account religious, social and demographic variables in a diversity of cultural contexts and to develop appropriate strategies for church ministries, global outreach and Christian service.

This course explores the nature of practical theology as a discipline: its history, methods and relevance for Church and society. Students will consider the work of various practical theologians; use varied models of theological reflection; and integrate social science methods into their ministry as practical theologians in residence. A key component of the course will involve the practicing of theology through reflection upon lived practical wisdom.

A study of the principles of leadership and management for the pastor or other professional Christian worker in relation to local churches or other Christian organizations. Contemporary leadership theory is critiqued in view of the church's mission. Students develop personal skills in leading change, self-management, budgeting, planning, recruiting and supervising volunteers, discerning vision for ministry and leading deliberative bodies.

A theoretical study and practice-based instruction for constructing and delivering scripture-centered sermons, homilies, and devotionals. Primary focus is on the discipline of homiletics and best practices for practical implementation in church settings. Students will craft, present, and evaluate sermonic work for hands on integration of previous theological training into preaching ministry. Prerequisite: BIL-202 or BIL-510.

This course teaches the art of pastoral care as it relates to the psychological and theological needs of persons and Christian communities. Theories of pastoral care, its ethical context, the healing functions of rituals, and specific interventions for predictable human needs such as birth, death, illness, trauma, marriage, divorce, and life passage celebrations will be considered. In addition, theological responses to the question of theodicy will be articulated. The class presents historical perspectives and practice through case studies and modeling. Prerequisite or Co-requisite: REL-501.

This course explores pastoral counseling from a frame of reference which limits both the number of sessions and the scope of the objectives for the counseling relationship. Students will engage in responsible use of faith-based and spiritual resources as well as articulate the benefits and limitations of counseling in a pastoral setting. Each student will gain familiarity with an overarching structure for pastoral counseling sessions as well as signs of necessary referral. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or higher in REL-520 or REL-370.

This course trains active ministers in the three most common forms of spiritual formation: mentoring, spiritual direction, and discipleship. Students analyze the theological and theoretical backgrounds, cultural implications, as well as strengths and weakness of each model of spiritual formation. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or higher in REL-521 or REL-270. Prerequisite or Co-requisite: REL-501.

Through both classroom and field study this course will evaluate how religious traditions and beliefs influence Israeli and Palestinian nationalism, and the politics of the modern Middle East. Special emphasis will be placed on biblical interpretations relating to God's convenantal promise of land in both the Old and New Testament and the implications of these theologies on the Christian church in the Middle East. Travel expenses and all applicable fees required.

This course covers a specialized and advanced topic in Christian history. The course focuses on advanced historical perspective for the sake of a better-informed and more faithful ministry. Prerequisites: THE-525, REL-331 and REL-332 or their equivalent.

This course appraises key philosophical concepts and questions for the sake of thoughtful congregational ministry. Ethics, logic, epistemology, as well as major current philosophical options are analyzed for their implications for congregational ministry. Though philosophical concepts are discussed in detail, ministerial implications of philosophy and practical application is the aim. Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in REL-500, or PHL-280 and THE-101.

This course is the first in a sequence of potentially three courses in which the student engages in a self-directed, researched-based treatment of a topic relevant to the master's program in which the student is enrolled, conducted under the supervision of a faculty member.

This course is the second in a sequence of potentially three courses in which the student engages in a self-directed, researched-based treatment of a topic relevant to the master's program in which the student is enrolled, conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite: REL-591.

This course is the third in a sequence of potentially three courses in which the student engages in a self-directed, researched-based treatment of a topic relevant to the master's program in which the student is enrolled, conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisites: REL-591 and REL-592.

This course is an independent or directed study of a research language relevant to the master's program in which the student is enrolled, conducted under the supervision of a faculty member, culminating in a competency examination.

This course provides an overview of the history of Christianity from the first century AD until the twentieth century, with emphasis on the development of the Church in its socio-political context, and the development of theology in the midst of pagan philosophies and heresies.

This course guides students in best practices for transitioning from academic theological education to ministry in the local church context. A blended course, this course academically, psychologically, and pragmatically shifts students from residential education to a residency pastorate. Prerequisites: BIL-520, REL-555, THE-525 and signature of professor.

A ministry lab course, this course uses experienced ministry professionals as mentors in the field under the guidance of Practice Theology professors. Students will be engaged in guided ministry leadership assignments and reflection on ministry performance. Students will also create a structured plan for improvement in ministerial competency. A professional ministry position is required for the completion of the course. Prerequisites: REL-555 or its equivalent.

A second ministry lab course following on the first, this course continues to use experienced ministry professionals as mentors in the field under the guidance of practical theology professors. Students will engage in additional guided ministry leadership assignments and reflections of ministry performance. Students will continue to develop structured plans for improvement in ministerial competency. A professional ministry position is required for the completion of the course. Prerequisite: REL-602

This course trains active ministers in the three most common forms of spiritual formation: mentoring, spiritual direction, and discipleship. Students analyze the theological and theoretical backgrounds, cultural implications, as well as strengths and weakness of each model of spiritual formation.

This course examines the corporate dimensions of spirituality and spiritual formation as outlined in Scripture, church history and contemporary practice. The class analyzes and discusses those historical and cultural factors that have led to the privatization of Christianity, and develops a paradigm of spiritual growth and maturity that focuses on the gathering of believers rather than the isolated Christian. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or higher in REL-521 or REL-270. Prerequisite/Co-requisite: REL-501.

This course guides students in advanced engagement with issues related to ethnicity, ethnography, and ministry in contexts of culture diversity. The primary aim of the course is to equip local church pastors to develop multi-ethnic church ministries. Students in this course will integrate practice and theology-laden theory into the ministry context in which they serve. Successful students will integrate theological, philosophical, and social scientific theories with professional best practices for multi-ethnic ministry. A professional ministry position is required for the completion of the course. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or higher in REL-545 or REL-240.

This course is designed for the advanced preaching student with two or more completed preaching courses in undergraduate or graduate work. Students will engage advanced homiletical theory using first source material in historical and contemporary homiletics, analyze model sermons in depth, and receive robust constructive feedback on their own preaching experiences. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or higher in REL-565 and BIL-510, or REL/YTH-366 and REL-366P.

This course explores pastoral counseling from a frame of reference which limits both the number of sessions and the scope of the objectives for the counseling relationship. Students will engage in responsible use of faith-based and spiritual resources as well as articulate the benefits and limitations of counseling in a pastoral setting. Each student will gain familiarity with an overarching structure for pastoral counseling sessions as well as signs of necessary referral. Co-requisite: REL-555.

This course teaches the art of pastoral care as it relates to the psychological and theological needs of persons and Christian communities. Theories of pastoral care, its ethical context, the healing functions of rituals, and specific interventions for predictable human needs such as birth, death, illness, trauma, marriage, divorce, and life passage celebrations will be considered. In addition, theological responses to the question of theodicy will be articulated. The class presents historical perspectives and practice through case studies and modeling. Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in REL-570.

This course celebrates different paradigms and models of church, paying special attention to more recent missional movements and their characteristics, theological commitments, and perceived trajectory/impact. Students will engage with research and in-depth analysis of church health assessment, and the application of pastoral leadership for local church missions fulfillment. This course teaches the assessment of church health and mission using a number of different evaluative tools. A professional ministry position is required for the completion of the course.

This course forms healthy pastoral leadership philosophy, habits, and dispositions in ministry leaders through engagement with central leadership texts, ecclesiological reflection, case studies, observation, strategic planning, and implementation in local church contexts. This course integrates theological, philosophical, cultural, educational, and administrative theories and best practices for ministry in staff, solo, and lead pastor positions. A professional ministry position is required for the completion of the course. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or higher in REL-560, or REL-468 or CED-490 or CED-491.

Students will learn how to do research on the topic they have selected for the thesis or project. They will evaluate current literature, analyze scholarly research, and design a methodology, summary, and conclusions to complete the thesis or project. Students will present either a written thesis that will contribute to a new understanding of a subject of the Christian faith, or a written project that will make a practical contribution to the growth of the church.

In this capstone, students work on a major project demonstrating an integrated interdisciplinary understanding of the overall masters curriculum including contextualized ministry experience. The project should be usable by a current or future employer or affiliated ministry.

Students will learn how to do research on the topic they have selected for the thesis or project. They will evaluate current literature, analyze scholarly research, and design a methodology, summary, and conclusions to complete the thesis or project. Students will present either a written thesis that will contribute to a new understanding of a subject of the Christian faith, or a written project that will make a practical contribution to the growth of the church.