Common Curriculum (30 credit hours):
Introduction to Practical Theology (LIMX 703 - 3 credit hours)
This initial course in ministry education introduces students to a process of "pastoral praxis," through a method of keeping theological reflection in constant dioalogue with action. Students explore the interplay of the Christian tradition and the dynamics of living out that tradition through the sociocultural, personal, and institutional contexts of their ministries. The method of theological reflection is based upon the work of the Rev. Bernard Lonergan, S.J., and David Tracy.
Jewish Roots of Christian Faith - Old Testament (LIMX 711 - 3 credit hours)
This course introduces students to the literature, history, and theology of ancient Israel as embodied in the ancient Hebrew scriptures commonly known as the Old Testament. It examines the major themes of Exodus, promise-fulfillment, and covenant in Israel's history from the time of the patriarchs to the period of late Second Temple Judaism, which was the context of Jesus' life and teachings. In particular those texts, events, and beliefs of ancien Israel which form an indespensable background for understanding the New Testament are highlighted.
Christian Origins - New Testament (LIMX 712 - 3 credit hours)
This course introduces students to the literature, history, and theology of the early Christian scriptures commonly known as the New Testament. It examines the historical context of Jesus' teachings, his parables and preaching of the "reign of God," and the thology of Paul and the Gospels. Particular attention is given to the experience of faith that was engendered by Jesus among his first disciples and the lived faith of the earliest Christians.
Grace, Christ and Spirit (LIMX 714 - 3 credit hours)
This course introduces students to the rich Christian tradition of theological reflection and teaching on the person of Jesus Christ, the Trinity, and grace, as well as the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian life. In the context of this tradition, students are invited to a deeper understanding of the meaning of salvation in their lives and in their ministry. Contemporary theologies of Christ and salvation are also explored, using Karl Rahner as an example of a modern theology of grace.
Church, Sacraments and Ministry (LIMX 722 - 3 credit hours)
This course presents the experience and theology of church, sacraments, and ministry as they have unfolded throught Christian history. A major part of the course is dedicated to a deeper understanding of the meaning of sacramentality and theology of the individual sacraments in the Catholic tradition. Special emphasis is given to Vatican II and post-conciliar developments in the church's self-understanding and in the theology and practice of ministy, sacraments, and liturgy.
Spirituality, Morality and Ethics (LIMX 704 - 3 credit hours)
Traditional Catholic ethics are examined in the light of Vatican II. Students study the nautre of the human person and the meaning of freedom and sin. They also explore the role of Scripture, reason and the natural law, norms, conscience, and Church authority in making moral decisions. Throughout the course, Christian living is placed in the context of personal spirituality and the call to discipleship. Sexual ethics and Catholic social teaching are discussed at length in the course.
Faith and Culture (LIMX 840 - 3 credit hours)
This course explores the mystery of faith operating within the context of contemporary culture. Students are introduced to a broad array of social science perspectives and analytical skills. Powerful cultural forces, such as the news and entertainment media, generational differences, ritual, and technology are analyzed for insightes in improving ministerial prazxis and personal spiritual understanding.
Faith Development and Spirituality (LIMX 860 - 3 credit hours)
This course invites student to develop a life-long committment to faith formation and growth. Adult faith development and integrated spirituality are explored as students reflect on their own growth and the growth of those to whom they minister. Topics of adult development, learning, and faith are presented, including vocation, relationships, prayer, liturgy, and justice.
Pastoral Leadership and Organization (LIMX 861 - 3 credit hours)
In this course, students explore the meaning of pastoral leadership in light of the current research in organizational development and ecclesiology. Current literature will be surveyed in light of the mission of the church and its implications for leadership. Special emphasis will be placed upon participative strategic planning processes and organizational development. Participants will analyze an organizational system for its strenghts and weaknesses and propose interventions that would strengthen its organizational functioning.
Pastoral and Educational Praxis (LIMX 886 - 3 credit hours)
In this capstone course, students employ the method of practical theology to reflect on concerns related to their ministterial and educational praxis. Careful analyses that include the social and cultural circumstances surrounding their identified praxis will be undertaken, as well as an appreciative and critical retrieval of the voice of the faith tradition. Based on that reflection, possible educational and ministerial interventions that meet criteria of pragmatic feasibility and religious faithfulness will be imagined and articulated verbally and in wirting for evaluation and feedback from faculty.