Perkins School of Theology - Course of Study
Professors: Jaime Clark-Soles, Roy Heller, Richard Nelson, Susanne Scholz, Abraham Smith, Sze-kar Wan
The purpose of Division I is to develop the student’s biblical knowledge and
understanding and to provide sound methods for proper and effective use of Scripture. Biblical history and literature are studied in relation to the social and cultural context of ancient Israel and the early church. The division is concerned, further, with the exposition of Scripture and with the nature and history of great biblical themes, so as to produce effective biblical interpreters, whether their study has been in English alone or in one or more of the biblical languages.
All Hebrew exegesis courses presuppose completion of
HB 7300, 7301 or the equivalent, as well as
OT 6301 or the equivalent. All Greek exegesis courses presuppose completion of
GR 7300, 7301 or the equivalent, as well as
NT 6301 or the equivalent.
Basic Courses
OT 6301. Interpretation of the Old Testament I. Examines texts and issues representative of the Pentateuch and Former Prophets, with attention to historical, literary, cultural and theological matters, and to exegetical method. Acquaint students with the content of these biblical writings and develops their competence in the critical analysis and interpretation of the texts. Three term hours.
OT 6302. Interpretation of the Old Testament II . Examines texts and issues representative of the Latter Prophets and Writings, with attention to historical, literary, cultural and theological matters, and to exegetical method. Acquaints students with the content of these biblical writings and develops their competence in the critical analysis and interpretation of the texts.
Three term hours.
Prerequisite: OT 6301.
NT 6301. Interpretation of the New Testament I. Examines texts and issues representative
of the Gospels and Acts, with attention to historical, literary, cultural and theological matters,
and to exegetical method. Acquaints students with the content of these biblical writings
and develops their competence in the critical analysis and interpretation of the texts. Three
term hours.
NT 6302. Interpretation of the New Testament II. Examines texts and issues representative
of the Epistles and Revelation, with attention to historical, literary, cultural and theological
matters and to exegetical method. Acquaints students with the content of these biblical
writings and develops their competence in the critical analysis and interpretation of the texts.
Three term hours.
Prerequisite: NT 6301.
Electives
Biblical Languages
HB 7300. Hebrew I. An introduction to the grammar, syntax and vocabulary of Biblical Hebrew. Three term hours.
HB 7301. Hebrew II. A continuation of the study of Biblical Hebrew, as well as an introduction to the methods and resources of Hebrew exegesis, through study of selected narrative passages. Three term hours.
GR 7300. Greek I. An introduction to the fundamentals of the grammar and syntax of Koine Greek. Three term hours.
GR 7301. Greek II. A continuation of GR 7300, with extensive reading in a variety of New Testament writings and with special attention to the syntax of Koine Greek, as well as to the tools, methods and skills needed for exegesis. Three term hours.
Exegetical and Topical Studies
Exegesis Courses
Usually, 7000-level English exegesis courses are devoted to the study of the theological and literary features of a particular book or pair of books within the related historical context and presuppose the relevant introductory course. For example,
OT 7308 The Book of Jeremiah presupposes completion of
OT 6302, which covers the Latter Prophets. Courses at the 8000 level are advanced seminars, and prerequisites are listed for each course.
HB 7302. Hebrew Exegesis. Selected texts from the Prophets and Writings. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: HB 7300, 7301 or equivalent.
GR 7302. Greek Exegesis. Translation and exegesis of a selected letter from the Pauline corpus. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: GR 7300, 7301 or equivalent.
OT 7301. The Book of Genesis. Three term hours.
OT 7305. The Book of Exodus. Three term hours.
OT 7308. The Book of Jeremiah. Three term hours.
OT 7309. The Books of Amos and Hosea. Three term hours.
OT 7310. The Book of Deuteronomy. Three term hours.
OT 7316. The Psalms. Three term hours.
OT 7318. The Book of Job. Three term hours.
OT 7321. The Book of Isaiah. Three term hours.
NT 7310. The Gospel of Mark. Three term hours.
NT 7311. The Gospel of Matthew. Three term hours.
NT 7312. The Gospel of Luke. Three term hours.
NT 7313. The Gospel of John. Three term hours.
NT 7315. I Corinthians. Three term hours.
NT 7320. Romans. Three term hours.
Advanced Electives
BB 8015 or 8315. Biblical Exegesis From a Hispanic Perspective. An interpretation ofOld and New Testament passages in terms of the cultural and historical situation of Hispanic peoples in the United States. One and one-half term hours or three term hours.
Prerequisites: six term hours of basic Bible courses.
BB 8321. The Bible in Global Context. A study of biblical hermeneutics in a cultural context different from the students’ own, typically outside the United States and Europe, with special attention to the role of theological reflection in an environment affected by globalization in all its dimensions. A focused, on-site study in a particular region of the world. May be repeated for additional academic credit when topics vary. Three term hours.
BB 8325. The Authority of the Bible for Theology. An examination of theological questions resulting from the claim that the biblical canon has primary authority among the sources of Christian theology. Three term hours (colisted as ST 8325).
Prerequisites: OT 6301, 6302 and NT 6301, 6302 and ST 6301, 6302.
BB 8330. African American Perspectives on the Bible. An exploration of the variety of approaches used by African American biblical scholars to explore Scripture and the reception history of the Bible in African American arts and letters. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: Either OT 6301 or OT 6302 and either NT 6301 or NT 6302.
BB 8345. Scripture and Christian Ethics. An examination of the hermeneutical issues that are involved when Scripture is employed as a guide for Christian ethics. After a consideration of some recent, representative proposals and models, explores a few selected topics. Three term hours. Prerequisites: OT 6301, 6302; NT 6301, 6302; and MT 6303. OT 8325. The Message of the Prophets. A seminar on the message of the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and the 12 Prophets. May vary specific texts and topics. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: OT 6301, 6302.
OT 8345. Ancient Texts and Modern Readers: Contemporary Approaches to the Hebrew Bible. An exploration of various contemporary reading methods, their political under pinnings and the biblical interpretations they produce. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: OT 6301, 6302.
OT 8351. Major Motifs of Biblical Theology. Thematic study of one or more major aspects
of biblical theology. Studies themes in the Old Testament first, but may also examine the
relation of the Old Testament witness to that of the New Testament. Varies the selection of
topics from time to time. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: OT 6301, 6302.
OT 8357. The Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books of the Old Testament. An examination
of the setting, origin, purpose and theological outlook of the Books of the Old Testament
Apocrypha, with attention given to the background they provide for an understanding of
first-century Judaism and the New Testament. Three term hours.
Prerequisite: OT 6301 or
OT 6302.
NT 8336. The Book of Revelation Through History and Cultures. An exploration of the
probable meaning and function of the Book of Revelation in its original context and the
interpretive strategies that developed in other contexts and cultures for making sense of this
text. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: NT 6301, 6302 and HX 6305.
NT 8343. The Spiritual Vision of Jesus. An examination of the spiritual vision of Jesus as
it can be reconstructed from New Testament texts. Attention to methodological challenges,
the shape of second Temple Judaism and other issues of relevance, including the attitude of
Jesus toward the Temple Law and prayer. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: NT 6301, 6302.
NT 8365. Evil, Suffering and Death in the New Testament. An examination of New Testament
perspectives on evil, suffering and afterlife. Explores how these realities were experienced,
symbolized and judged by representatives of early Christianity with a view to
relating these discoveries to the lived faith of those in contemporary churches. Three term
hours.
Prerequisites: NT 6301, 6302.
NT 8379. Issues in Pauline Theology. An examination of various issues in Pauline theology,
such as the law, faith/fullness, resurrection and Judaism. Traces methodological options and
the historical development of Pauline studies, as well as major theological issues in Paul’s
undisputed letters. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: NT 6301, 6302 and ST 6300.
Top 
Professors: Jessica Boon, William Bryan, Ted Campbell, Carlos Cardoza-Orlandi, Ruben Habito, Valerie Karras, William Lawrence, Bruce Marshall, James McMillin
The purpose of the Division II program is to examine the life and thought of the
Christian community in its historical expressions and to introduce the student to the
interrelations between Christianity and world culture. Studies are offered in the historical
development of Christianity, the manifestations of its outreach around the globe
and the varieties of religious and cultural contexts with which it has come in contact.
Enrollment in advanced HR courses requires prior completion of
HR 6302 World
Religions and Christianity: A Global Perspective. Enrollment in intermediate and
advanced HX and WX courses requires prior completion of
HX 6305, 6306 The
Christian Heritage. Exceptions to these prerequisites are by permission of the academic
dean only.
Beyond the regular elective courses offered each term, reading courses in Division
II may be arranged. Information may be obtained from the registrar.
Basic Courses
HR 6302. World Religions and Christianity: A Global Perspective. A study of world religious traditions, their interaction with Christianity and their implications for the mission and ministry of the church in the contemporary world. An examination of the global context of ministry, including themes such as poverty and socioeconomic injustice, the ecological crisis and cultural and religious diversity as issues for theological reflection and for interreligious cooperation. Three term hours.
HX 6305, 6306. The Christian Heritage I, II . An introductory study of modes of piety, patterns of thought and styles of practice that have shaped and reshaped the Christian heritage in its major variations, from its beginnings to the present. Six term hours, three hours per term.
Intermediate Courses
HX 7312. Early Christian Art. A study of the development of Christian art from such early
evidence as the paintings of the Roman catacombs and the church of Dura-Europos to the
flowering of Christian art and architecture in the Theodosian age. In particular, an examination
of the emergence of a Christian vocabulary, form and content in the art of the fourth
and fifth centuries, using both visual and literary sources. Taught occasionally, in conjunction
with Meadows School of the Arts. Three term hours.
HX 7314. The Reformation. A study of the background, origins and spread of Catholic and
Protestant reform movements in mainland Europe, England and the New World in the 16th
and 17th centuries, with particular attention to theological and spiritual developments at the
institutional and individual level. Attention to lay devotion, preaching, liturgy and spirituality
as integral to the socio-religious context of the Lutheran, Reform and Tridentine churches.
Three term hours.
HX 7316. History of American Christianity. An introduction to the most important historical
forces that have shaped the character of American Christianity, together with a critical
evaluation of some of the outstanding themes and issues in the history of American Christianity.
Provides a fresh understanding of the Christian mission in contemporary American
society. Three term hours.
HX 7322. Christianity in the Hispanic Tradition. A survey of the development of Christianity
in Spain and its former New World colonies. Special attention to the evolution of those traditions
that are formative of Hispanic culture and religious experience, Roman Catholic and
Protestant, in the United States. Three term hours.
HX 7324. Christianity in Latin America. The development and influence of Christianity,
Roman Catholic and Protestant, in Latin America from the 16th century to the present time
with special attention to Christianity’s present status and problems in Argentina, Brazil,
Colombia, Mexico, Peru and Chile. Three term hours.
HX 7335. Wesley and the 18th Century. An examination of the life and thought of John
Wesley in the context of the culture of his day. Special attention to the social and political
issues of his day, the philosophical and theological options that were prevalent and the manner
in which the Wesleyan movement took up the challenge to reform the nation, especially
the church. Three term hours.
HX 7342. Passion-ate Spirituality. A survey of doctrine and spiritual techniques related to
Christ’s Passion over two millennia, with attention to the Middle Ages, Christ’s humanity,
Eucharistic theology, Mariology and the depiction of Jews. Three term hours.
HX 7365. United Methodist History. A historical survey of the polity and doctrine of
Methodism: its beginnings in Wesley’s “Societies,” the evolution of British Methodism in
its first 100 years and the development of American Methodism from its origin to the present.
Three term hours.
HX 7366. Presbyterian History, Doctrine and Polity. A course designed to equip Presbyterian
students to meet Presbyterian (U.S.A.) ordination requirements with respect to
understanding The Book of Confessions and The Book of Order. Three term hours.
HX 7367. Unitarian Universalist History and Polity. A study of Unitarian Universalist traditions
and structures for students preparing for ordination or lay ministry within the Unitarian
Universalist Church. Arranged with assistance of denominational officials on an as-needed
basis. Three term hours.
HX 7368. United Church of Christ History, Doctrine and Polity. A study of United Church
of Christ traditions and structures for students preparing for ordination or lay ministry within
the United Church of Christ. Arranged with assistance of denominational officials on an
as-needed basis. Three term hours.
HX 7370. Anglican History and Theology. An introduction to Anglican Church history, theological developments and the development of the Anglican Communion. Three term hours.
HX 7371. Episcopal History and Canon Law. An introduction to Episcopal Church history and canon law. Three term hours.
WX 7310. World Christianity: Its Mission and Unity. Examination of the world Christian community in a changing global context, with consideration of the expansion of Christianity from the perspective of the recipients as well as the missionary senders. Studies of the formation of churches and theologies within cultural diversity, Christian interaction with other religions, the ecumenical impulse and movements toward unity and the struggles for renewal on each continent. Special attention to new publications from African, Asian and Latin American sources. Three term hours.
Advanced Electives
History of Religions
HR 8331. Women in World Religions. An inquiry into the images, status and roles of women
as defined or conditioned by Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam, and by the traditional cultures
of China and Japan. Three term hours.
HR 8037. The Multicultural Alliance: Seminarians Sharing Faith Traditions. A January
interterm course involving participation by students of theological schools of various Christian
denominations in the Southwest and by representatives of the Jewish community. A four-day
seminar that focuses on a particular theme in Jewish-Christian relations, addressing it in the
context of Scriptural, doctrinal, ethical and practical perspectives. Varied themes from year to
year, including, but not limited to, the Theology of Creation, Issues in Scriptural Hermeneutics,
Faith and Justice, and Approaches to Religious Pluralism. One and one-half term hours.
HR 8341. The Christian-Buddhist Dialogue. A seminar on key issues in the effort of contemporary
Christians and contemporary Buddhists to learn about and from each other.
Through examination of writings by Buddhists and Christians interested in dialogue, considers
various understandings of existence, ultimate reality, evil and religious knowledge, as
well as the characteristic spiritual disciplines found in each tradition. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: HX 6305, 6306.
HR 8342. The Christian-Hindu Dialogue. A seminar on key issues in contemporary
Christian-Hindu dialogue, examining doctrinal and practical-experiential dimensions of
each tradition, as well as broader issues of “mutual transformation” and pluralistic theologies.
Three term hours.
HR 8343. Contemporary Christian-Muslim Dialogue. A survey of key issues in contemporary
Christian-Muslim dialogue, with a special emphasis on the issues of religious life
and freedom for religious minorities in modern states and the role of inter-religious dialogue
in the midst of a clash of civilizations. Concludes with participation in several dialogue
sessions with Muslims living in the Dallas area. Three term hours.
HR 8357. Monotheistic Mysticism. Case studies of the major genres of mysticism (theosophical,
ecstatic, magical, love, bridal and negative theology) found in medieval Judaism,
Christianity and Islam. Three term hours.
HR 8360. Eastern Spiritualities and Christian Mysticism. An examination of Eastern spiritual
traditions that developed in India, Tibet, China and Japan, and of Christian mystical expressions
from the New Testament and Christian history to discover resonating themes that can
ground an understanding of “spirituality” in interfaith dialogue. Three term hours.
History of Christianity
HX 8308. Varieties of Medieval Theology. An exploration of the diverse approaches to basic issues of Christian faith among the monastic, scholastic and mystical theologians of the Middle Ages, especially the 12th to 14th centuries. Readings from several of the following: Anselm, Abelard, Bernard of Clairvaux, the Victorines, Bonaventure, Aquinas, Scotus, Ockham, Eckhart, Julian of Norwich and others. Three term hours.
HX 8321, 8322. The History of Christian Doctrine. A cumulative examination of the basic
doctrines and theologies that have shaped the Christian tradition. In the fall term, a survey
of the formation of the patristic, Byzantine and medieval Western theological traditions. In
the spring term, a study of the Reformation, Catholic and Protestant, with certain 19th century
developments. Three term hours each.
Prerequisite: A minimum of six term hours
in church history and permission of the instructor. HX 8321 may be taken by itself, but it is
a prerequisite for HX 8322.
HX 8325. The Ecumenical Movement. An examination of the current major developments
in the Ecumenical Movement, including the World Council of Churches, regional councils,
the Second Vatican Council, the Church of South India and other unions, and the proposed
Church of Christ United in the United States and Methodist involvement. Three term
hours.
HX 8337. Sex and Gender in Greek and Latin Patristic Thought. Compares and contrasts
patristic views of human sexual differentiation and the construction of gender by examining
and critically evaluating both primary sources and modern scholarly works. Three term
hours.
Prerequisites: ST 6300 and HX 6305, 6306.
HX 8338. Patristic Anthropology and Soteriology. A study of Greek and Latin patristic
views of theological anthropology and related soteriology by examining and critically
evaluating both primary sources and modern scholarly works. Three term hours.
HX 8342. Studies in Luther. A study of the life and thought of Martin Luther, with special
attention given to his doctrine of justification, his social ethics and his significance for the
contemporary church. Extensive readings in Luther’s representative works. Three term
hours.
HX 8343. Calvin and the Reformed Tradition. A study of the life and thought of Calvin,
the reformation in Geneva and the development of reformed churches elsewhere on the
continent and in Scotland to the Synod of Dort (1618–19). Extensive readings in Calvin’s
Institutes of the Christian Religion and other primary texts. Topic to be announced when
course is offered. Three term hours.
HX 8354. African American Christianity in the United States. A study and appraisal of
selected topics and problems in African American Christianity in the United States. Integrates
historical studies and current concerns with the objective of providing a fuller understanding
of the African American religious experience in American society. Three term hours.
HX 8360. Studies in Wesley. Studies in the sources and development of Wesley’s theology,
with special reference to theological methods, norms and ecumenical relevance. Three term
hours.
Prerequisite: HX 7365 or permission of the instructor.
HX 8361. Wesley as Evangelist. A study of the evangelistic theology and methods of 18th
century Methodism, especially those of John Wesley, and their implications for contemporary
practice. Three term hours. (colisted as EV 8361)
Prerequisite: HX 7365 or permission of
the instructor.
HX 8367. Studies in World Methodism. A general survey of the worldwide growth of
Methodism, exploring issues in mission, culture and theology. Examines past and current
Methodist writings from around the world, including documents from the World Methodist
Council and Oxford Theological Institute. Includes research projects in original materials.
Three term hours.
HX 8383. History of Methodism in Texas. A seminar course examining the history of
Methodism in Texas from 1815 to the present time, offering students the opportunity to do
original historical research in unedited documents available at Southern Methodist University
and elsewhere. Three term hours.
HX 8387. Readings In Spanish Mysticism. A course focusing on Teresa of Avila, John of
the Cross and/or Ignatius of Loyola, with significant attention to the context of the inquisition,
convivencia, empire building and local religion. Three term hours.
World Christianity
WX 8321. Christian Mission in Cultural Context. A study of the mission, development and influence of Christianity in various cultures, with special attention to the role of the church
amid societal tensions, nationalism and social change. May be taught as an overview course
on campus or as a focused, on-site study of a particular region of the world. Varies the
specific topic with each offering. May be repeated for additional academic credit. Three
term hours.
WX 8322. Christianity in Asia. A survey, with historical background, of the problems,
achievements and prospects of the Christian churches of Asia amid a revival of ancient
religions, growing nationalism, contending ideologies and revolutionary social ferment.
Three term hours.
WX 8328. Theological Issues in World Christianity. A survey of important present and
emerging theological issues confronting the world Christian community. Includes topics
such as world religious pluralism; Christian views of other religions; interreligious dialogue;
worldwide women’s consciousness; concern for the natural environment; world economic
and political structures; cultures and Christianity; Christian theologies from Africa, Asia,
Latin America and other areas; contemporary reexaminations of Christian doctrines; and
mission theology in the midst of diversity and tension. Three term hours.
WX 8332. Mission Studies. A comprehensive study of Christian mission, including a review
of the historical background, a survey of mission presence in a world with religious plurality
and new theologies and a theological analysis of mission theories, paradigms and practice.
Provides the opportunity for research into areas of special concern. Three term hours.
Top
Professors: William Abraham, Karen Baker-Fletcher, Charles Curran, Isabel Docampo, Robin Lovin, Hugo Magallanes, Bruce Marshall, Rebekah Miles, Joerg Rieger, Theodore Walker, Charles Wood
Coursework in Division III is intended to foster an understanding of the content of the Christian faith in its historical and contemporary articulations and to enhance the student’s capacity for constructive theological and ethical reflection. Basic studies provide an orientation to theological and ethical thinking and a knowledge of the principles of Christian doctrine and moral teaching. Advanced studies are offered on specific doctrines, theological questions and ethical problems, on the works of selected theologians and ethicists and on issues having to do with the relationship between contemporary Christian thinking and current philosophical, scientific, political and cultural developments.
The following courses are prerequisite for ST 6301 Interpretation of the Christian Message I and for MT 6303 Moral Theology: two of the four required terms of Basic Studies in Bible, the two terms of HX 6305, 6306 The Christian Heritage and ST 6300 Introduction to Theology. A minimum of one term of Basic Studies in New Testament must be taken either prior to or concurrently with ST 6301. Enrollment in ST 6302 presupposes satisfactory completion of ST 6301.
Enrollment in a 7000-level course in Division III presupposes completion of ST 6300 Introduction to Theology.
Enrollment in an 8000-level course in Division III presupposes completion of ST 6301 Interpretation of the Christian Message I (for advanced courses in systematic theology) or MT 6303 Moral Theology (for advanced courses in moral theology) or ST 6300 Introduction to Theology (for advanced courses in theology and culture). Exceptions to these prerequisites, when justifiable because of the nature of the advanced course or the student’s readiness, are to be decided upon by the academic dean.
Beyond the regular elective courses offered each term, reading courses in Division III may be arranged. Instructions may be obtained from the registrar.
Basic Courses
ST 6300. Introduction to Theology. A consideration of the aims and character of theological
reflection in relation to the Christian life and to church leadership, giving particular attention
to principles of reasoning and argument and to pertinent historical and contemporary
examples. Three term hours.
ST 6301, 6302. Interpretation of the Christian Message. A study, through lectures and
preceptorials, of the methods and insights of systematic theology, aimed at aiding students
in their own understanding of the content of the Christian faith. Develops through lectures
basic perspectives in theological analysis of the cardinal issues. Provides through preceptorials
opportunities for small group discussion, examination of doctrinal standards and the
formulation of the student’s “credo.” Six term hours, three per term.
MT 6303. Moral Theology. An introduction to ethical inquiry from a Christian point of
view. Examines selected past and present methods in moral theology, basic concepts and
criteria developed in moral philosophy and selected situations as opportunities for concrete
embodiment of Christian moral reflection. Three term hours.
Intermediate Courses
ST 7029, 7329. Doing Theology From a Hispanic Perspective. An analysis of the historicalcultural
situation of Hispanic peoples in the United States and a consideration of theological
themes germane to that situation. Attention to the use and development of the theological
resources within the Hispanic community. One and one-half or three term hours.
ST 7034. United Methodist Doctrine. A study of doctrinal standards in United Methodism,
with attention to Wesley’s thought, subsequent theological transitions and contemporary
guidelines for doctrinal reflection in an ecumenical context. One and one-half term hours.
TC 7301. Philosophy and Theological Inquiry. An examination of the discipline of philosophy
as it relates to theological studies, with particular attention to the history of philosophy,
relevant religio-philosophical problems and the development of the student’s critical skills.
Three term hours.
Advanced Electives
Systematic Theology
ST 8311. Contemporary Theology. A comparison of liberal, neoorthodox, postmodern,
liberation and other theologies (approaches to theological methodology), exploring their
implications for the present as well as the question of their social and historical locations.
Three term hours.
ST 8314. The Christian Doctrine of God. An inquiry in systematic theology directed toward
the formulation of an adequate constructive statement of the Christian understanding of
God. Three term hours.
ST 8318. The Person and Work of Jesus Christ. A consideration of selected themes, images,
issues and problems, both past and present, in the area of Christological doctrine. Attempts
to draw some guidelines for present-day thinking about Christ. Three term hours.
ST 8321. The Christian Doctrine of Providence. A systematic theological study of the
Christian doctrine of providence, aimed at the development of an adequate contemporary
understanding of the doctrine. Three term hours.
ST 8325. The Authority of the Bible for Theology. An examination of theological questions
resulting from the claim that the biblical canon has primary authority among the sources of
Christian theology. Three term hours. (colisted as BB 8325)
ST 8027, 8327. North American Hispanic Theology. An exploration of the development of
North American Hispanic theology and of the dynamics of doing theology from a Hispanic
perspective as a distinctive style of theology. Attention to the issues, concerns and beliefs
of the Hispanic community and the major developments of this style of doing theology.
Requires a group project and participation in a Hispanic event. Requires no previous knowledge
of Spanish. One and one-half or three term hours.
ST 8359. God and Creation. An examination of 20th and 21st century process and relational
understandings of God and creation in response to the problem of sin against creation.
Attention to the significance of a relational god in response to questions of manyness and
oneness in God and creation. Three term hours.
ST 8365. Process Theology and Christian Thought. An overview of the development and
concepts involved in process theology and its impact upon and its compatibility with Christian
beliefs. Attention to the background, concerns and topics addressed by process thought and
to its value for Christian theologies that seek to bring forth change. Three term hours.
ST 8375. Feminist, Womanist and Mujerista Theologies. An exploration of the critique
and vision brought to contemporary theology by women’s perspectives represented in texts
by feminist, womanist, mujerista and other theologians and in women’s fiction and essays.
Three term hours.
Moral Theology
MT 8332. Ethics, Theology and Children. An exploration of Western understandings of
childhood and the formation of moral children, recent changes in parenting and childhood
and implications for ministry. Draws on classical and contemporary resources in ethics,
theology and sociocultural analysis. Three term hours.
MT 8335. Ethics, Theology and Family. Drawing on classical and contemporary resources
in ethics, theology and sociocultural analysis, reviews Western models of family, examines
ethical issues confronting U.S. families and identifies implications for ministry. Three term
hours.
MT 8345. African American Liberation Theology. A study of contemporary North American
“black theology,” with special attention to both its characteristic features and its development
of social ethics. Includes as principal readings works by James Cone, Deotis Roberts, Major
Jones and Katie Cannon. Three term hours.
MT 8352. Contemporary Moral Issues. A study of selected moral issues concerning such
subjects as abortion, crime and punishment, the environment, sexuality and war and peace.
Examines issues in relation both to moral-theological questions and to the morally relevant
circumstances. Three term hours.
MT 8362. Ethics, Theology, and Metaphysics of Morals. A class examining basic types
of moral reasoning (including deontological, areteological and teleological reasoning), plus
theological and metaphysical foundations. Considers moral philosophies and specifically
Christian/religious ethics of various kinds. Three term hours.
Prerequisites: ST 6302 and
MT 6303.
MT 8365. Ethical Reflection on Schubert M. Ogden’s Theology. A critical reflection upon
Schubert M. Ogden’s theology with particular attention to ethical and metaethical issues.
Three term hours.
MT 8375. The Poor in John Wesley’s Ethics. An examination of Wesley’s ethics in response
to the needs of the poor (and other marginalized groups in church and society) and the
challenges the poor pose for ministry and theological reflection.
MT 8377. Studies in Reinhold Niebuhr. An examination of some major issues and themes
in Niebuhr’s work. Includes special attention to The Nature and Destiny of Man. Three
term hours.
MT 8381. Theology and Ethics of Ministry. A theological and ethical examination of the
general and representative ministry of the church. Explores key issues relating to each of the
principal areas of the church’s ministry: Word, Sacrament and Order. Three term hours.
MT 8383. Process Theology and Social Ethics. An examination of process theology with
particular attention to ethical and metaethical implications for social ethics. Three term
hours.
MT 8385. Martin and Malcolm and Theological Ethics. A theological, ethical study of
selected works by and about Martin Luther King, Jr., and Malcolm X. Three term hours.
Theology and Culture
TC 8308. Contemporary Issues in Philosophy of Religion. Critical investigation of a
selected issue in philosophy of religion based on current literature in the field. Three term
hours.
TC 8310. Theology, Religion and Cultural Studies. An exploration of recent developments
in critical theory and cultural studies and their implications for religion, theology and ethics.
Gives special attention to constructive proposals and issues related to global change. Three
term hours.
TC 8318. Christian Ethics and Social Justice. An inquiry from a Christian perspective
into different theoretical and practical responses to issues of justice in society. Three term
hours.
TC 8321. Theology and Ministry in Global Contexts. A study of theology in a cultural
context different from the students’ own cultural context, usually outside the United States,
with special attention to the role of theological reflection in an environment affected by
globalization in all its dimensions. A focused, on-site study in a particular region of the
world. Varies the specific topic with each offering. May be repeated for additional academic
credit. Three term hours.
TC 8325. Bioethics. A study of religious and moral issues that have been made critical by
recent developments in the biological sciences and in medical technologies and practices.
Examines such issues as the following: experimentation on human subjects, abortion, the
decision to let someone die, the nature and determination of death, physician-patient relationships,
the concept of health and the access of the poor and ethnic minorities to the health
care system. Three term hours.
TC 8331. The Theology and Ethics of 19th Century Holiness Women. An exploration of
the knowledge and experience of God in the writings of 19th century holiness women, with
attention to their Christian thought and practice including their understanding and experience
of issues such as calling, prayer and social justice. Three term hours.
TC 8340. The Christian, the Church and the Public Good. A study of how the Christian
and the church should work for a more just society and the public good in the light of the
church’s own self-understanding from a theological and ethical perspective and in the light
of the First Amendment and today’s pluralistic society. Three term hours.
TC 8351. Theology and Literature. An examination of the methods by which various
theologians employ literary resources to articulate and elaborate their concepts of God.
Includes a sampling of literary resources. Three term hours.
TC 8360. Issues in Science and Theology. An overview and examination of the interaction
of science and theology with an emphasis on selected areas of study. Gives specific attention
to the historical interaction of science and theology, as well as to their mutual concerns and
respective methods. Three term hours.
TC 8375. Advanced Feminist Theory. Offered yearly by the Women’s Studies program at SMU.
Includes the “classic” literature from feminist, womanist and mujerista perspectives and
addresses current theoretical issues across relevant disciplines. Taught in rotation by interested
faculty associated with the Women’s Studies program and Perkins. Three term hours.
Top
Professors: Patricia Davis, Paula Dobbs-Wiggins, Michael Hawn, Elaine Heath, John Holbert, Susanne Johnson, Hugo Magallanes, Alyce McKenzie, Evelyn Parker, Marjorie Procter-Smith, Harold Recinos, Frederick Schmidt, Thomas Spann, Mark Stamm,
Jeanne Stevenson-Moessner, Jeannie Treviño-Teddlie
The program of Division IV is concerned with the church, its nature and ministry,
and its leadership, clerical and lay. The program is designed to help students
understand their various roles as leaders in the local church and to provide opportunities
for practice in these roles.
The basic courses are designed to provide students with an introduction to the
ministry of the church. The M.Div. student must satisfactorily complete 15 term
hours of work in basic courses, consisting of
PR 6300 Introduction to Preaching
(three term hours),
WO 6313 Word and Worship (three term hours),
XS 6310 The
Church in its Social Context (three term hours) and six term hours in at least two
ministerial areas other than preaching and worship to be selected from the list of
designated courses. In addition, each M.Div. student must complete at least three
more term hours in the division at the 7000 or 8000 level.
Students in the M.Div., C.M.M. and M.T.S. programs must have completed
ST 6300 Introduction to Theology and one term each of Bible and church history
coursework before beginning any courses in ministry.
XS 6310 The Church in Its
Social Context must be taken prior to, or concurrently with, other courses in ministry.
PR 6300 is a prerequisite for all advanced courses in preaching, and
WO 6313 is a prerequisite for all advanced courses in worship.
Beyond the regular elective courses offered each term, reading courses in Division
IV may be arranged. See the registrar for details.
Basic Courses
PR 6300. Introduction to Preaching. An introduction to preaching, focusing on the preparationand delivery of the sermon. Attention to the form, content and style of the sermon, theliturgical and social context in which the sermon is preached and the person of the preacher. Three term hours.
WO 6313. Word and Worship. An introduction to the history and theology of Christian worship. Attention to the identification and function of the following elements: prayer, praise, proclamation and sacramental action. Allows students to develop a practical theology of worship and gain experience in constructing and leading worship. Three term hours.
XS 6310. The Church in Its Social Context. An examination of social structures, trends and dynamics affecting contemporary life, local communities and the mission of the church. Helps prepare students to understand and respond to specific sources of social structure and power, including economic, racial, ethnic and gender differences. Emphasis on the analysis of the local community as the context of ministry. Three term hours. The following courses (except CA 7013) satisfy the Basic Ministerial Studies requirement
for the M.Div. degree.
Christian Education
CE 7304. The Church’s Educational Ministry. An introduction to the church’s educational
ministry. Attention to practices and strategies that are biblically/theologically grounded and
informed by sociology, anthropology, psychology, cultural studies and philosophy of Christian
education; to the planning, administering, supervising and evaluating of a local church
program; and to ministry with children, youth, adults and the aging. Three term hours.
CE 7032, 7332. Educational Ministry in the Small-Membership Church. An exploration
of the unique characteristics of small-membership churches, with particular attention to
their context, such as urban and rural. Includes strategies for ministry with children, youth
and adults; methods of recruiting, training and supporting volunteers; and ways to use outside
resources. One and one-half or three term hours.
Church Administration
CA 7309. The Minister as Administrator. A study of the importance of effective administration
in pastoral ministry, with special attention to organization, the use of time, the development
of management skills and group process. Three term hours.
CA 7013. United Methodist Polity. A study of the Methodist Church, its historical emphases,
structure, polity, discipline and leadership. Special attention to the United Methodist Church
today. One and one-half term hours.
Church Music
CM 7005. The Hymn: Word and Music. An exegetical approach to hymns designed to lead
to appropriate and imaginative use of hymns and anthems with the lectionary in planning
worship and sermons. Examines texts in relationship to biblical motifs upon which they
draw. Provides practical experience in the choice and teaching of appropriate tunes. One
and one-half term hours.
CM/MN 7016, 7316. Music and Arts in the Church. A study of the role of music and additional
arts in worship and other ministries of the church. After an introduction to aesthetic
and theological foundations, explores specific art forms through hands-on workshops,
including dance, drama, visual arts and music. Also discusses acoustics for worship. One
and one-half or three term hours.
Evangelism
EV 7307. Theory and Practice of Evangelism. A study of the theological foundations of evangelism with a view to developing appropriate principles and strategies of evangelism in the local church. Three term hours.
General Ministries
MN 7311. Prayer and Spirituality. A study and exploration of various traditions of Christian
prayer and spiritual life. Examines the relationship between prayer and everyday life, as
well as various forms of spiritual practice and discipline appropriate to people of differing
temperaments and life circumstances. Three term hours.
MN/CM 7016, 7316. Music and Arts in the Church. A study of the role of music and additional
arts in worship and other ministries of the church. After an introduction to aesthetic
and theological foundations, explores specific art forms through hands-on workshops,
including dance, drama, visual arts and music. Also discusses acoustics for worship. One
and one-half or three term hours.
MN 7320. Ministry in the Black Church. A course designed for all students interested in
knowing more about the ministry of the black church. Examines the underlying theological
rationale and its practical implications for ministry in the black church from the perspective
of cultural pluralism in the black experience. Includes an experience in the context of the
black church. Three term hours.
MN 7329. Issues in Practical Theology. A critical look at how to develop, strengthen and
exercise the habit of integrating theological inquiry and understanding into congregational
ministry by helping students to reflect on the practice of ministry in light of disciplines in
theological education and other sources. Emphasizes the case study method and provides
in-depth attention to selected areas of ministry. Three term hours.
MN 7342. Women in Ministry. An interdisciplinary inquiry into the experience of women
in ordained ministry, giving attention to feminist, womanist and mujerista critiques and
constructions of ecclesiology and to the impact of race, class and sexual orientation on
women’s pastoral leadership. Three term hours.
Pastoral Care
PC 7321. The Caring Congregation. An introduction to the church’s ministry of pastoral
care. Three term hours.
PC 7322. Pastoral Care and Family Systems. An introduction to the church’s ministry of
pastoral care by means of theological reflection upon, and application of, relevant “family
systems” theories in the nurture of congregations. Three term hours.
PC 7639. Basic Clinical Pastoral Education. A 400-hour quarter of supervised pastoral
experience approved by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education. Normally offered
during a 10-week, 40-hour-per-week summer term. Requires prior consultation with a faculty
member in Pastoral Care. Students may take either this course or a CPE internship but not
both. Six term hours.
Christianity and Society
XS 7302. Issues in Urban Ministry. An examination of ministry issues in urban multicultural
contexts, with emphasis on the connections between theories of urbanization, the reality of
urban life and the praxis of ministry. Three term hours.
XS 7330. The Social Ministry of the Church. An examination of the theological foundations,
historical roots and current manifestations of social ministry. Attention to models of social
ministries at the local church levels as well as non-parish models of response to the social
environment. Three term hours.
Advanced Electives
Christian Education
CE 8301. Teaching the Bible in the Local Church. An examination and practice of a variety
of approaches to the study of the Bible with children, youth and adults in the local church.
Three term hours.
CE 8020, 8320. Ministry With Children. A consideration of the church’s educational ministry
with children. Attention to developmental theory to the nature of teaching and to comprehensive
planning for ministry with children. One and one-half or three term hours.
CE 8330. Youth Ministry. A consideration of the church’s educational ministry with youth.
Includes observation of and participation with young people. Requires a one-day service
learning module with young people. Three term hours.
CE 8332. Speed Dating Spirituality: Ministry With Young Adults. A critical exploration
of the spiritual beliefs, values and practices of young people ages 18 to 30 from diverse social
contexts. Attention to the vocation of the young adult and the role of the congregation and
pastor. Three term hours.
CE 8338. Emancipatory Educational Ministry With Adolescent Girls: Liberating Ophelia
and LaTomika. An interdisciplinary inquiry of the experiences of teenage girls, focusing on
the impact of race, class and gender oppression. Uses feminist, womanist and mujerista perspectives
to inform the construction of a critical educational ministry with teenage girls in the
church. Requires a one-day service learning module with young people. Three term hours.
CE 8340. Adult Ministry. A consideration of the church’s educational ministry with adults.
Attention to recent studies of middle-aged adults and the aging and to ways in which the
church can prepare them for effective ministry in the church and world. Three term hours.
CE 8072, 8372. Christian Education in Cultural Context. An exploration of the teaching
ministry of the church in relationship to diverse local and global settings. Special attention
to equipping students with knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to design curricular
resources and learning environments appropriate to diverse contexts. May be taught on
campus or as an immersion experience in an off-campus site, local or international. One and
one-half or three term hours.
CE 8375. Spiritual Formation in the Church. An exploration of a variety of historic and
contemporary practices that support and guide Christian formation and spirituality in a
pluralistic world. Special attention to leadership of small groups in the congregation and to
the interrelationship between spirituality and justice. Three term hours.
Christianity and Society
Prerequisite for all XS courses is XS 6310.
XS 8302. Race Relations and the Church. An examination of race relations in the United
States with special attention to the role of the church in intergroup relations. A survey of
the basic theories of race relations, identifying current intergroup dynamics and exploring
implications for ministry. Addresses the experiences of black, Hispanic, Anglo, Asian and
Native American populations as they interact. Three term hours.
XS 8321. Witness and Ministry in Global Context. A study of Christian witness and ministry
in a cultural context different from the students’ own cultural context, usually outside the
United States, with special attention to the role of theological reflection in an environment affected by globalization in all its dimensions. May be repeated for additional academic
credit when topics vary. Three term hours.
XS 8326. Broad-Based Community Organizing: Holiness and Politics in the Urban
Church. An examination of the principles and practices of ministers and churches in shaping
the political life of their communities. Asks why and how churches organize and teaches
the art of organizing. Three term hours.
XS 8332. Contemporary Issues in Urban Ministry. A study of metropolitan issues of
poverty, racism, crime, youth gangs, housing, education, immigration, urban policy, politics
and economics. Particular attention to the cultural and religious values reflected in the inner
city as positive resources for urban revitalization. Offers a single topic focus during each
term. May be repeated for academic credit. Three term hours.
XS 8339. Christian Ministry in a Multicultural Society. A historical, theological and ethical
examination of the foundations for ministry in a diverse and pluralistic society to assist
students in developing Christian ministry models in a multicultural/pluralistic society. Three
term hours.
XS 8350. The Social Mission of the Church. Theological reflection and social analysis of the
church and society – their structures, processes and interactions – as related to the church’s
mission and roles in society. Attention to social and moral reflection and to the exploration of
action strategies as the church discerns its task in society. Three term hours.
Christian Worship
WO 6313 is prerequisite for all WO courses except WO 8018, 8318.
WO 8308. Women and Worship. An examination of feminist critique of religion with reference
to its implications for reform of worship. Considers issues of language, symbol and
action, and examines and evaluates various positions and proposals. Three term hours.
WO 8311. The Rites of Christian Initiation. A historical and practical study of the catechumenate,
baptism, confirmation, first communion and renewal, and also the theology proclaimed
by these rites. Three term hours.
WO 8313. The Church Year. A historical and practical study of the witness of the church
year to the Christian faith. Three term hours.
WO 8315. From Agape to Eucharist. A survey of the evolution of the Christian Eucharist
from its New Testament beginnings and possible Jewish roots to its current manifestation
in a context of liturgical renewal and reform. Also attention to issues of pastoral practice.
Three term hours.
WO 8317. The Daily Prayer of Christians. A study of the historical development of Christian
daily worship with particular attention to its use as a school of Christian spiritual formation.
Allows students to examine historical documents and contemporary revision of the daily
office and to consider the theological significance and pastoral possibilities of daily prayer.
Three term hours.
WO 8018, 8318. Worship in a Global Perspective. A study of primarily non-Euro-American
worship resources, including prayers, stories, litanies, music and other worship forms from
Asia, Africa, Spanish-speaking countries of Central and South America, Native American
cultures and global ecumenical movements such as the Taizé Community of France and the
Iona Community of Scotland. May be taught as an overview course on campus or as a focused,
on-site study of a particular tradition off campus. One and one-half or three term hours.
WO 8322. Ritual Studies and Liturgical Practice. An introduction to the field of ritual
studies with emphasis on implications for liturgical performance, creation and leadership.
Three term hours.
WO 8325. Issues in Methodist Worship. An examination of the historical background,
spiritual commitments and stylistic issues that shape and define Methodist worship, with
application to contemporary liturgical issues within Methodism and the wider church. Three
term hours.
WO 8327. Contemporary Patterns of Christian Worship. A study of selected current worship
patterns and musical styles including charismatic and Pentecostal influences (“Praise
and Worship”), worship from intentional ecumenical communities such as Taizé and Iona,
feminist worship, “Emerging Church” worship and cross-cultural influences in Christian
worship. Three term hours.
Church Administration
CA 8315. The Pastor as Financial Leader. An introduction to the basic theological principles
of church finances. Includes examination of the relationships between budgets and campaigns,
how to lead a finance committee and stewardship challenges. Seeks to develop a model for
sound pastoral leadership in church finances. Three term hours.
CA 8317. Theology and Practice of Stewardship. An examination of a range of issues
related to the theology and practice of stewardship and how theology informs church stewardship
programs and fundraising. Three term hours.
CA 8319. Dynamics of Pastoral Leadership. A study of the nature and function of pastoral
leadership in a local church setting. Provides opportunities for a study of literature in the
field of effective local church leadership and for responses to case studies of effective local
church pastors at work. Three term hours.
CA 8368. Leadership in the Christian Context. A seminar on current models of leadership
and their practical, ethical, social and theological implications for ministry. Covers issues
of role theory, leadership and systems theory, women’s roles as leaders, conflict management,
leadership in times of crisis and working with lay leaders. Three term hours.
Church Music
CM 8102, 8103, 8104. Instruction in Conducting. (M.S.M.) A three-term sequence of
specialized instruction in church music conducting for M.S.M. students with a performance
concentration in choral conducting. Includes specialized class and private instruction and a
repertoire lab. Three term hours, one hour per term.
CM 8106. Handbells and Worship. (M.S.M.) A comprehensive study of the techniques of
English handbell ringing and the pedagogy of handbell choir directing. Includes the use of
handbells and handbell repertoire in a liturgical setting. One term hour. M.Div. students by
permission.
CM 8107. The Youth Choir and the Church. (M.S.M.) A comprehensive study of philosophy
and techniques for working with church youth choirs, including recruitment, voice building,
working with changing voices, touring, effective group building and literature development.
One term hour. M.Div. students by permission.
CM 8108. Cantoring in Worship. (M.S.M.) A course on leading congregational singing in
a variety of styles, including psalmody, African American song, Taizé prayer and global
music. Also addresses issues of basic vocal pedagogy. One term hour. M.Div. students by
permission.
CM 8012, 8013. Seminary Singers. An organization devoted to the performance of choral
music and worship leadership in Perkins Chapel. Allows students to enroll for noncredit, but
requires those registered for credit to take two terms in the same academic year and be present
for all public appearances. Allows students to take the course in addition to 12 term hours of
regular coursework. One and one-half term hours, credited at the end of the spring term.
CM 8120. Supervised Practicum. (M.S.M.) Required of all M.S.M. students, with course
activities that occupy both years of study. During the first or second spring term of study,
focuses one class session a week on issues of pastoral care and problems in human relationships
in church music work. Gives professional field supervision in music and ministry
during all terms. Requires a special church music project and other agreed-upon activities
during the last spring term of study. Provides a final evaluation with supervisors, the M.S.M.
director and the practicum committee. One term hour.
CM 8024, 8124. Music Ministry with Children. (M.S.M.) A course designed for musicians
and educators interested in developing a church music education program for children ages
3 through 12. Includes topics such as vocal development and literature, children’s choir curricula, music reading skills, children in worship and music in the church school. Music
reading skills helpful but not necessary. One or one and one-half term hours. M.Div. students
by permission.
CM 8330. Church Music Colloquium I. (M.S.M.) An intensive study of the theological,
liturgical and musical aspects of church music, including hymns, service music and choral
literature for all age groups. Focuses on the Advent, Christmas and Epiphany seasons. Requires
a study of masterworks and public and in-class conducting. Three term hours.
CM 8331. Church Music Colloquium II . (M.S.M.) An intensive study of the theological,
liturgical and musical aspects of church music, including hymns, service music and choral
literature for all age groups. Focuses on the Lent and Easter seasons. Requires a study of
masterworks and public and in-class conducting. Three term hours.
CM 8332. Church Music Colloquium III . (M.S.M.) An intensive study of the theological,
liturgical and musical aspects of church music, including hymns, service music and choral
literature for all age groups. Focuses on Pentecost and the common liturgical season. Requires
a study of masterworks and public and in-class conducting. Three term hours.
Evangelism
EV 8308. The Ministry of Evangelism. The role of the minister in equipping the local congregation for evangelism. Presents theological foundations and practical strategies in evaluative
studies of contemporary models. Also considers particular contexts such as the inner city, varying residential patterns, places of work, education and recreation. Three term hours.
EV 8310. Issues in Evangelism. An examination of various issues in the theory and practice of evangelism, such as evangelism in postmodern culture, evangelism and the emerging
church, evangelism and congregational renewal, evangelism and spiritual direction, and evangelism and popular culture. Three term hours.
Prerequisite: EV 7307.
EV 8325. Revivalism and Evangelism. A critical study of revivals in the history of the Catholic Church with a view to examining their significance for the theory and practice of
evangelism. Gives special attention to the work of Charles G. Finney. Three term hours.
EV 8361. Wesley as Evangelist. A study of the evangelistic theology and methods of 18thcentury Methodism, especially those of John Wesley, and their implications for contemporary
practice. Three term hours. (colisted as HX 8361) Prerequisite: HX 7365 or permission of the instructor.
Hispanic Heritage
HH 8023, 8323. The Church and the Mexican American Community. A study of the relationship of the church to the Mexican American community in the Southwest, including a brief review of the origins, developments and struggles. Attention to past and present models of church involvement. One and one-half or three term hours.
HH 8027, 8327. Christianity and Social Justice in the Southwest. A study of the political, economic and racial dynamics in the Southwest and the churches’ responses. Special attention
to strategies of justice developed by Mexican American and other local, conference and general church organizations. One and one-half or three term hours.
Pastoral Care
PC 8301. Pastoral Care: Special Problems. An examination of several major areas of pastoral work and of the relationship between pastoral care and some of the other functions
of ministry. Allows the class to select specific topics. Three term hours.
PC 8318. Mental Health Skills for the Pastor. Basic skills, concepts and knowledge needed to evaluate mental health problems presented by parishioners, to intervene in problem situations
and to make effective referrals. Pastoral experience required. Three term hours.
PC 8326. The Pastor’s Crisis Ministry. An introduction to the church’s ministry of pastoral care, with special emphasis on crisis theory and intervention and theological reflection upon
human crisis. Provides opportunities for intervention procedures to be practiced and then applied to typical crises in which the minister is called upon to help, such as illness, dying, bereavement, wife and child abuse. Three term hours.
PC 8330. Pastoral Care and Counseling of Adolescents. A theoretical and experiential
exploration of pastoral ministry with youth. Special attention to faith and identity development,
adolescent/family dynamics and the diversity and influence of current youth cultures.
Three term hours.
PC 8333. Pastoral Care and Counseling of Women. Addresses pastoral care and counseling
concerns of women through exploration of issues such as women’s psychological/social/
spiritual development, women’s roles and functions in families and relationships, women’s
bodies and sexuality, and women in the church. Three term hours.
PC 8335. Sexual and Domestic Violence: Theological and Pastoral Concerns. An introduction
to the issues of domestic violence, child sexual abuse, rape and elder abuse, focusing
on theological and ethical concerns and the church’s pastoral and educational response.
Three term hours.
PC 8036. Premarital Counseling. An exploration of the educational, psychological and
pastoral perspectives on counseling persons for marriage in the light of an overview of the
meaning of marriage in the Christian tradition. One and one-half term hours.
PC 8341. Spirituality and the Human Life Cycle. An introduction to intersections of spirituality
and developmental psychology. Includes case analysis of autobiographies, novels and
film. Three term hours.
PC 8345. Justice Issues in Pastoral Care. An exploration of the ways in which ethical
reflection and sociocultural analysis are foundational for the practice of pastoral care. Focuses
on four interrelated forms of systemic injustice: sexism, racism, classism and heterosexism.
Three term hours.
PC 8348. Pastoral Self-Care. Remembering the Good Samaritan’s example of finishing
the journey while caring for the hurting, explores the healthy balance between caring for
self and caring for others. The ministerial role of caregiver can intensify this search for
spiritual symmetry. Three term hours.
Prayer and Spirituality
PS 8045. Explorations in Christian Spiritual Formation. Using historical and contemporary
resources, allows the participants to explore and experience habits and practices appropriate
for education and growth in Christian life. Emphasis on the vocational and personal needs
of the ordained minister. One and one-half term hours.
PS 8059, 8359. Christian Spirituality. A general overview of spiritual traditions in the
Western Church. Practical instruction and personal exercises in addition to theoretical
considerations of the material. Emphasis on development of the student’s spiritual formation,
as well as the enhancement of capacity to serve as a spiritual guide for others. One and
one-half term hours or three term hours.
PS 8355. Introduction to Monastic Spirituality. An introduction to the theology and spiritual
practice of the monastery, exploring the genesis and genius of monastic spirituality and its
possible relevance for those living beyond the boundaries of the monastery. Three term
hours.
Preaching
Prerequisite for all PR courses is PR 6300.
PR 8303. Preaching From the Bible. An exegetical-expository study of a book of the Bible
with reference to pulpit proclamation. Three term hours.
PR 8322. Reading and Preaching Biblical Narrative. A study of selected narratives from
the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament, with special concern for the ways in which new
literary critical analysis of those narratives is important for the construction and delivery
of sermons. Allows students to preach and evaluate sermons. Three term hours.
PR 8323. Preaching and the Creation. A study of issues surrounding creation care, with
special reference to theological and biblical resources, and how those issues may be addressed
in Christian proclamation. Three term hours.
PR 8325. The Old Testament and the Christian Pulpit. A seminar exploring the ways in
which the Old Testament can be a major resource for the Christian pulpit. Special attention
to the careful study of specific Old Testament texts and to how that careful study can aid
effective proclamation. Three term hours.
PR 8327. Preaching and Contemporary Literature. A course designed to explore some of
the best of contemporary novels, short stories and plays, raising questions about the theologies
implied and searching for ways to use these materials in the homiletical task. Includes
authors such as Saul Bellow, Frederick Buechner, Graham Greene, Peter Shaffer and Flannery
O’Connor. Three term hours.
PR 8331. The Sermon as Theological Reflection. An examination of the sermon as an
exercise in practical theology, critical reflection on contemporary practice in light of the
witness of Scripture and tradition, directed toward individual and social transformation.
Within that broader methodology, equips students to preach a particular type of sermon,
one that focuses on a Christian doctrine, renovating and reappropriating it for contemporary
Christian communities. Three term hours.
PR 8340. Preaching Biblical Wisdom Literature. An exploration of biblical wisdom themes
and genres for Christian preaching, with special attention to placing biblical wisdom in
conversation with contemporary secular wisdom. Three term hours.
PR 8345. Preaching Public Issues: Biblical, Theological and Homiletical Perspectives. A biblical and theological analysis of the practice of public-issues preaching in the mission of
contemporary congregations to their communities with reference to three occasions of pulpit
address: chronic social problems, controversial issues and social crises. Three term hours.
PR 8352. Creative Sermon Design. An exploration of the rhetorical and theological implications
of sermonic form in 21st-century congregations. Attention to the power of form to
gain and hold attention, to convey essential biblical and theological knowledge and to shape
faith. Three term hours.
General Ministries
MN 8026, 8326. Ministry in the Hispanic Church. A course designed to introduce students
to the practice of ministry in the Hispanic church covering the topics of: the Hispanic community
and Bible reading, the Hispanic community and the role of the church, the Hispanic
context and the dominant culture, the Hispanic community and mission strategy and the
Hispanic community and leadership. Offers methodological tools and practice that allow
students to be ready to participate in team developing ministries with Hispanics. One and
one half or three term hours.
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XX 6003, 6104. Spiritual Formation I, II . For description, please see the “Special Programs for Academic Credit” section of this catalog. One term hour credit after completion of both
XX 6003 and XX 6104.
XX 8610, 8611. Concurrent Internship. For description, please see “Internship” in the M.Div. program section of this catalog. Twelve term hours, six per course. XX 8365, 8366. C.M.M. Internship. Supervised ministry in Christian education in a local church or alternative ministry setting. Required of all C.M.M. students during a fall and spring term in the second year of study or thereafter. Allows students to work with a local church mentor under general supervision provided by the Perkins staff. Requires individual learning covenants that are drawn up with the approval of the church mentor, the lay teaching committee and the Perkins supervising personnel. Six term hours, three per term.
XX 8600, 8601. Full-time Internship. For description, please see “Internship” in the M.Div. section of this catalog. Twelve term hours, six per course.
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