Our Programs ~ Courses Offered Fall 2006
Courses Offered Fall 2006
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Michaelmas Term 2006
Revised: July 31, 2006
Integrative Seminars
note: Course Listing 2006-08 is also available on-line.
AS550: STM Thesis
6 credits
AS582: Anglican Studies Graduate Seminar: Anglicans and the Ecumenical Future
This seminar is a documentary historical survey of Anglican’s historic commitment to and involvement in the search for greater unity among Christian churches. Major Anglican ecumenical relationships are reviewed historically and evaluated theologically from the Chicago-Lambeth Quadrilateral to the Windsor Report and its aftermath. Designed and required for S.T.M. and Th.D. students.
Prof. Wright * 4 credits * M 3:30-5:20 pm * West Building 2-D
AS590: Th.D. Comprehensive Exams
MA10: Integrative Seminar: Master of Arts
This course is designed to prepare and form laypersons who are discerning a call to transformative faith-based leadership. Students develop a biblically-based theology of mission and lay ministry. They engage in critical, creative and integrative thinking about the gospel’s message, humanity’s pressing needs, and the call to be instruments of God’s blessing. The course highlights how theological formation shapes and enriches the approach, meaning and purpose of lay vocations. There are opportunities for field trips, dialogue with outstanding lay persons serving in a variety of professions, and exposure to spiritual practices that direct and sustain growth in a realized life of faith.
Prof: TBD * 2-3 credits * M 7:00-8:50 pm * Sherred 1-A
TSP1: Tutorial Seminar: Master of Divinity
This course integrates critical thinking about the world, scripture and theology into the experience and practice of faith, while articulating questions and ideas in ways that invite one to grow and commit to God’s call and ministry. Students read and write personal reflections, engage in Scripture and theological texts as conversation partners, attend and participate in neighborhood ministry in the inner city, and integrate their spiritual autobiography into their expectations for seminary life and ordained ministry. Seminar groups explore the implications of material presented in the plenary classes. One-on-one meetings with a tutor focus on written assignments. The Tutorial Seminar is required of all beginning M.Div. students and is pass/fail.
Prof. Ewing et. al. * 3 credits * Tu + Th 8:40-10 am * Sherred 1-A
Old Testament
OT1: Introduction to the Old Testament: Pentateuch and Former Prophets
This course surveys the scriptures of Israel, with attention to the historical, cultural and religious contexts in which they arose. The introduction will treat the literature from a historical-critical perspective as well as introduce other contemporary approaches to studying the Old Testament.
Prof. Corney * 3 credits * M + W 10:10-11:30 am * Seabury Auditorium
OT130/530: The Psalms
This course examines the Psalms with attention to their literary character and the nature of the devotion and faith to which they give expression. Part of each session is devoted to detailed study of selected individual psalms.
Adjunct Prof. Salvador * 2-3 credits * Th 3:30-5:20 pm * Sherred 2B
New Testament
NT2: Introduction to the New Testament: The First Century Churches and Their Writings
This course surveys the Act of the Apostles, the Epistles, the Fourth Gospel, and Revelations as witnesses to the life and developing faith of the primitive churches. Special attention will be given to the writings of St. Paul and the Greco-Roman world in which the New Testament originated.
Prof. J. Koenig * 3 credits * M + W 8:40-10:00 am * Seabury Auditorium
NT101/501: The Gospel According to John
This course is a study of the Fourth Gospel based on the English text. Emphasis is place on the origins of this distinctive document, as well as its literary structure and theological affirmations. Lectures and in-class presentations by students facilitate the study.
Prof. J. Koenig * 2-3 credits * Tu 3:30-5:20 pm * Sherred 1A
Biblical Languages
HB10: Biblical Hebrew
Introduction to the basic elements of Hebrew grammar (phonology, morphology, and syntax) as presented in Simon, Resnikoff, and Motzkin, The First Hebrew Primer (3rd ed.).
Adjunct Prof. Han * 3 credits * Tu + Th 10:10-11:30 am * Sherred 1B
GK10: Elementary New Testament Greek
Introduction to the language.
Adjunct Prof. Dewey * 3 credits * M + W 4-5:20 pm * Sherred 2A
GK101: Intermediate Greek
Adjunct Prof. Dewey * 1 credit * M 2:00-3:50 pm * West Building 2D
Church History
CH2: Medieval and Reformation Church History
This course surveys the history of the church in the West from Charlemagne to 1689, with emphasis on the papacy, reformation movements, and the emergence of the Church of England.
Prof. Wright & Adjunct Prof. Walden * 3 credits * M + W 1:30-2:50 pm * Seabury Auditorium
CH145/545: The History of the Episcopal Church in the United States
The first half of this course is a chronological overview of the Episcopal Church’s history from colonial to modern times. The second half consists of six thematic studies of particular subjects such as gender, race and mission. Students will read primary sources and secondary works that will familiarize them with significant historians of the Episcopal Church.
Adjunct Prof. Young * 2-3 credits * Th 7-8:50 pm * Sherred 1B
CH186/586: Introduction to Anglicanism
This course engages foundational Anglican readings, both primary and secondary, from the Venerable Bede to the Windsor Report and beyond and analyzes their implications for the development of Anglican identity. For students with little previous study in Anglicanism.
Prof. Wright * 2-3 credits * Tu 1:30-3:20 pm * Sherred 1A
Systematic Theology
ST1: Systematic Theology
An introduction to classical Christian doctrines in light of the contemporary context, this course gives attention to historical, methodological and constructive elements in the doing of theology. Topics includes the Triune God, creation, theological anthropology, sin, suffering and evil, the person and work of Christ, salvation, the Church, and eschatology.
Prof. Richardson * 3 credits * M + W 8:40-10:00 am * Sherred 1A
ST102/502: Contemporary Theological Works on the Trinity and Christology
Designed primarily for students who have completed initial courses in the theology and church history, this course will examine contemporary theologies and will be structured in two modules, the first on Trinity and the second on Christology.
Prof. Richardson * 2-3 credits * Th 3:30-5:20 pm * Sherred 1A
Ethics and Moral Theology
ET110/510: Christ and the Moral Life
This course examines the relation between Christology and Christian ethics. Although there is a review of traditional doctrinal formulations, the main emphasis is on contemporary theologians and ethicists. Where traditional Christologies have tended to separate the treatment of the person and work of Christ, a fundamental assumption in this course is that the two need to be treated as correlates. This course discusses dynamics involved with beginning with Christ’s incarnation and passion, specifically with the practices and norms of non-violence, reconciliation, and love.
Prof. Danaher * 2-3 credits * Th 1:30-2:50 pm * Sherred 2A
ET120/520: Contemporary Moral Issues
This course reviews the different approaches in Christian ethics to contemporary moral issues, specifically in the areas of the common good, politics, globalization, the environment, economics, violence, bioethics, and sexuality. The emphasis is on the identification and appreciation of the theological doctrines at stake in these topics, as well as the ethical implications of the church’s apostolic witness and mission.
Prof. Danaher * 2-3 credits * M 7-8:50 pm * Sherred 1B
Ascetical Theology
AT1: Christian Spirituality: Theological Foundation and Social Implications
This course treats issues of methodology, history, and the theological foundations for Christian spirituality through a reading of selected classics in the tradition.
Prof. E. Koenig * 3 credits * M + W 10:10-11:30 pm * Sherred 1A
AT100/500: Theory and Practice of Lectio Divina
Sacred reading (Lectio Divina) is a foundational Christian spiritual discipline. This course will review historical roots of Lectio Divina and explore in depth the dynamics of this discipline in dialog with linguistic, literary and psychoanalytic theories. Special attention will be given to the practice of Lectio Divina with the goal of deepening students’ encounters with sacred texts.
Prof. Linman * 2-3 credits * Tu 1:30-3:20 pm * West Building 2D
AT125M: The Imagination of the First Church: Art, Poetry and Spirituality 100-500 CE
How did the earliest Christians see Christ? How did they use their artwork as a catalyst for meditation and prayer? How did they create in their literature the first, powerful Christian mythos? These are the kinds of questions we will ask in this 6-week module, Oct. 3-Nov. 7, as we explore the art of the catacombs, the architecture and worship of the earliest church buildings, and the writings of the classic early theologians such as Ignatius, Irenaeus, Origen, Gregory of Nyssa, and Gregory the Great.
Adj. Prof. McPherson * 1 credit * T 6:00-7:50 p.m., Oct. 3-Nov. 7 * House of the Redeemer: 7 E. 95th St,, NYC.
AT131/531: Mysticism and Social Transformation
Contemporary scholarship recognizes that all religious texts arise in social and political as well as ecclesiastical contexts. In 14th century England, people were struggling with issues startlingly similar to those of today, such as the problem of authority, the political significance of religious actions, the role of women, the relationship between the individual and the church, and the shift from feudalism to democracy. We will read Julian of Norwich’s Book of Showings, the works of Richard Rolle, Walter Hilton, the author of the Cloud of Unknowing, The Book of Margery Kempe, and groundbreaking secondary literature, to learn how spiritual practice is related to social change. With permission of the instructor, qualified students may substitute this course for AT1.
Prof. E. Koenig * 2-3 credits * Th 7-8:50 pm * Sherred 1A
Studies in Contemporary Society
CS304/504: Christian Social Action and Social Entrepreneurship
This course is an introduction to a particular kind of Christian social action. It will combine a robust theology of the world with leadership training in social transformation. The leadership training will require participants to define and undertake a field-based project coordinated with Rural and Migrant Ministry, Inc., a Poughkeepsie-based advocacy and service organization serving migrant farm workers and other rural people, which is sponsored by an ecumenical consortium of covenanting partners, including the Diocese of New York. The leadership training will explore the emerging social entrepreneurship movement in the nonprofit arena, and employ some of its methodologies. It will also use local resources such as the Industrial Areas Foundation in Brooklyn and the South Bronx, the social transformation program component of the Trinity Grant Board, and the recently initiated Trinity Academy for Social Leadership. Students from the New York Theological Seminary are encouraged to cross-register and will themselves be a resource. The course will draw on ecclesiology, eschatology, ecumenical theology and historical theology, with a special emphasis on American religion. Planned activities will require students to be flexible, but the total time required will be commensurate with the number of credits offered for the course.
Adjunct Prof. Walden * 3 credits * W 7-8:50 pm * Sherred 1A
Liturgics
LT1: Christian Liturgy: Theology, History, and Contemporary Issues
This course covers Christian liturgical worship from its beginnings to the present day, in four parts. The first and second parts explore the theological, ethical, and ritual dimensions of liturgy and the theology and structure of the 1979 Book of Common Prayer, respectively. The third part traces the structural development of the rites of Baptism, Eucharist, Orders, and the Paschal Triduum, with attention to the theological significance of these developments. The final part of the course examines issues at the leading edge of developments in Anglican worship.
Prof. Farwell * 3 credits * Tu + Th 8:40-10:00 am * Sherred 1B
LT121/521: Pastoral Liturgy
This practical course is the follow-up to LT1, intended for those who will be responsible for the leadership of liturgy in parishes and other ecclesial communities. After addressing the practicalities of leading the Daily Office (coinciding with the leadership of Morning Prayer in chapel by students in their final year), the first part of the course explores the art of liturgical presidency. Next, the course walks through the use of the calendar and issues in presiding at Baptism and Eucharist, with all students “practice-presiding” at one of these two services. The third part of the course explores the practice of pastoral rites in the context of pastoral care and the theology of the rites. The focus is on Holy Matrimony, Reconciliation, Ministration to the Sick, Ministration at the Time of Death, and Burial of the Dead.
Prof. Farwell * 2-3 credits * W 3:30-5:20 pm * Seabury Auditorium
Preaching
PR1: Preaching in the Liturgy
This is the basic course in preaching. By writing and delivering sermons we explore various dimensions of preaching as the liturgical event in which the preacher interprets the Gospel in and to the Church, equipping the people of God in their pilgrimage. In our complex and pluralistic world, the preacher must be aware of the needs and expectations of the congregation as well as of the wider church and the world. In order to preach the gospel in this world with responsibility and integrity, the preacher must be aware of some of the basic principles of preaching, the place of preaching in the liturgy and various styles and forms of preaching.
Prof. DeChamplain * 3 credits * W 10:10-11:30 am * Sherred 1B
PR44/544: Preaching in the Context of the Pastoral Rites
Weddings and funerals present special challenges for the preacher. Members of the congregation with varying degrees of intensity are involved in strong emotions of joy and grief, changes of relationship, and sometimes profound personal questioning. The preacher is offered a unique opportunity to help people reflect on the gospel in an emotionally-charged context which may open new horizons for them. We will explore the various dimensions of these situations, preach and comment on sermons. Prerequisite: PR1 or its equivalent.
Prof. DeChamplain * 3 credits * Tu 3:30-5:20 pm * Sherred 2A
Church Music
CM1: Introduction to Music
The course focuses on the fundamentals of music literacy, the resources of Hymnal 1982 and Holy Eucharist Altar Edition, and the development of basic chanting skills. Particular attention is given to the liturgical singing of deacons and priests. Required of all M.Div. students, the course may be taken for 2 credits by those who have prior experience in reading music. Those who are not already familiar with the principles of music notation should register for the 3-credit option, which will include a basic foundation in music reading.
Prof. Hurd * 2-3 credits * Tu + Th 1:30-2:50 pm * Sherred 1B
CM111: The Schola
The class takes the shape of a choir, which rehearses and performs representative sacred choral music at Tuesday evening celebrations of the Eucharist in the Chapel of the Good Shepherd and at other times. Admission to this course is by audition. Vocal and music reading ability are prerequisites.
Prof. Hurd * 1 credit * M 7:30-9:20 pm Seabury Auditorium & Tu 5:30- 5:50 pm Chapel
Ministry Leadership
Pastoral Theology
PT1: Congregations as Systems in Theological and Cultural Perspective
This course analyzes congregations as theological, cultural and systemic entities. Areas considered include: congregations as theological entities; congregations as cultural realities; systems analysis of congregations; congregational development; congregations as change agents in their communities; theories and best practices of leadership; the ministry of the baptized; evangelism; use of the canons in pastoral ministry; professional ethics and boundaries in the parish ministry; and the dynamics of grief, change and conflict.
Adjunct Prof. Derr/Fryer * 2 credits * Tu + Th 10:10-11:05 am * Sherred SD1A
PT3: Catechetics: The Teaching Ministry of Pastor and Parish
This course considers the intentional life-long processes by which persons become faithful Christians. The following topics will be explored: the priest’s role as teacher; the church as a learning community; catechesis and evangelization; the theory and practice of teaching and learning; historical insights on parish education; care of the soul; preparing persons for baptism, confirmation/reception, marriage, parenting, and the end of life; and the nurture of children, youth, young adults, mature and older adults.
Adjunct Prof. Foulke * 3 credits * Tu+Th 9:40-11:30 am * Sherred 2A
Theological Field Education
TFE 1 and 2: Basic Field Placement
Theological Field Education is a required element in ministry preparation in the M.Div. degree program. Typically, the basic placement is fulfilled during the third and fourth semesters of the program, when the student undertakes 6-8 hours of ministry per week in a congregation or other setting under the supervision of an approved Field Education Supervisor. Part-time students consult with the Field Education Director about when to schedule placements. Placements are explored in consultation with the Field Education Director, who must approve all placements. In the typical congregational basic placement, the student explores the parish system and has opportunity to learn ministry through practice in the areas of liturgy, preaching, teaching, visiting, and outreach. The specific experience is designed as the student and supervisor negotiate a Learning Agreement, which focuses on areas where the student has less previous experience and which must be endorsed by the Field Education Director. Expectations include a weekly meeting of student and supervisor and mutually drafted mid-year and final evaluations submitted to the Field Education Director.
TFE Director Griffin * 1 credit per semester * Michaelmas and Easter
TFE 3 and 4: Expanded Field Placement
Expanded Theological Field Education is a required element in ministry preparation in the M.Div. degree program. Typically, the expanded placement is fulfilled during the fifth and sixth semesters of the program, when the student undertakes 10-12 hours of ministry per week in a congregation or other setting under the supervision of an approved Field Education Supervisor. Part-time students consult with the Field Education Director about when to schedule placements. Involving more time than the basic placement, the expanded placement may emphasize particular areas of ministry development, or it may continue a general overview of ministry. The expanded placement may continue in the setting of the basic placement or may be in a different setting. Oversight of placement selection and ministry evaluation continues as in the basic placement.
TFE Director Griffin * 2 credits per semester * Michaelmas and Easter
TFE101 and 102: Elective Field Placement
Students in certificate or degree programs needing or wishing to undertake Theological Field Education on an elective basis may arrange to do so in consultation with the Field Education Director, who will offer guidance in the discernment of an appropriate ministry setting and supervisor. This opportunity is available to M.A., diploma and certificate candidates, and to M.Div. candidates who wish to undertake additional field work. Supervision and evaluation requirements pertain as described for TFE 1-4, and may be taken for 1 or 2 credits per semester, depending on the agreed time commitment.
TFE Director Griffin * 1-2 credits per semester * Michaelmas and Easter
Mission and World Christianity
WM150/550: Christianity in the Two-Thirds World
In numbers and vitality, Christianity’s center of gravity shifted to Africa, Asia and Latin America in the 20th century, and it is there that the representative Christianity of the 21st century may be found. This course explores overviews by Lamin Sanneh, Andrew Walls, Kwame Bediako and Philip Jenkins. We then consider particular regions and phenomena such as African prophet movements; the united churches of south Asia; popular Roman Catholicism in Latin America; global Pentecostalism; and post-denominational Christianity in China.
Prof. Presler * 2-3 credits * W 7-8:50 pm * Sherred 1B
Los Cursos para el Programa Hispano/Latino en Teología y Pastoral
Los cursos del Programa Hispano/Latino son en Español siempre que no se indique lo contrario. El Coordinador: el Rev. Canonigo Juan M.C. Oliver. oliver@gts.edu
TSP1 PHL Seminario Tutorial (Tutorial Seminar)
Los objetivos de este curso son: (1) Proveer una introducción a la práctica de la reflexión teológica; (2) ayudar a los estudiantes a encontrar y reclamar sus inquietudes, sus voces, y estilos como teólogos Latinos y ayudarlos a planificar su trabajo en cursos futuros de acuerdo a sus inquietudes; (3) evaluar y señalar las destrezas y debilidades del estudiante como escritor. El curso incluye los siguientes sujetos: autobiografía espiritual; lectura crítica de textos teológicos; teología y las artes y el papel de las santas escrituras en la formación vocacional. The objectives of this course are: (1) to provide an introduction to the practice of theological reflection; (2) to help students find and/or claim their concerns, voices and styles as Latino theologians and to help them plan their approach to future course work accordingly, and (3) to assess and address the student’s strengths and weaknesses as writers. The course deals with the following subjects: spiritual autobiography, the critical reading of theological texts, theology and the arts and the role of scripture in vocational formation.
Adj. Prof. Juan Oliver * 3 creditos * Michaelmas 2006
NT1 PHL: Introducción al Nuevo Testamento I (Introduction to the New Testament I)
El origen, contenido y teología de los evangelios sinópticos con una introducción a metodología contemporánea de investigaciones científicas de los evangelios. The origin, contents, and theology of the synoptic gospels with an introduction to contemporary methods of gospel research.
Leticia Guardiola * 3 credits * Michaelmas 2006
CH1 PHL: Historia de la Iglesia I (Church History I)
Historia de la Iglesia desde el cierre del canon neotestamntario hasta la edad media temprana en el oriente y occidente. Una presentación integrada de la historia, teología espiritualidad y culto. Early Church survey from the close of the New Testament canon into the Early Middle Ages in both East and West. An integrated presentation of church history, theology, spirituality, and worship.
Adj. Prof. Carla Roland * 3 creditos * Michaelmas 2006
