600

This course explores the theology of early British Methodism through their Hymns and Poetry with a focus on the lyrics of Charles Wesley. Students will critique the theological function of lyrics by a close reading of the theological content of hymns and theological poetry. Students will use these skills to evaluate how poetry can be used to describe specific doctrines.

From Epworth through the 21st century, the Methodist movement has never been without women serving in various leadership capacities. Examining the lives of women who helped spearhead Methodism in Britain, Ireland, America, Argentina, and beyond, this course will investigate the conditions, both resistant and permissive, in which women have co-labored as laity, deaconess, and ordained ministers.

This course investigates biblical, historical, and theological sources of soteriology in order to construct a theology of Christian growth and transformation. Students will engage various sources, including those of the Wesleyan tradition, in order to construct a theology that articulates the interrelationship between divine grace and human responsibility.

This course explores pastoral theology within the context of the office of the pastor and pastoral work in its many forms. Students will examine and deploy concepts related to pastoral theology that will form a foundation for pastoral care, pastoral counseling, and other practical relationships within the congregation. Students will engage theological and historic texts with special reference to ethical issues in pastoral ministry.