Course Description

This course begins by considering the role of conversation in SCC life, the ecclesiology of SCCs, a working model of SCCs and an examination of current research on SCCs. It then examines the inner life of small Christian communities: communication, leadership, conflict and consensus, and the role of scripture.

 

Course Goals

By the end of this course you will be able to:

 

Required Readings

Baranowski, A. Creating Small Church Communities: A Plan for Restructuring the Church and Renewing Catholic Life (Third revised edition). Cincinnati, St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1996.

Kleissler, T., Lebert, M. & McGuinness, M. Small Christian Communities: A Vision of Hope for the 21st Century. New York: Paulist Press, 1997.

Lee, B. & Cowan, M. Gathered and Sent: The Mission of Small Church Communities Today. Mahwah, New York: Paulist Press, 2003.

Lee. B. The Catholic Experience of Small Christian Communities. New York: Paulist, 2000.

Whitehead, E. & J. Community of Faith: Crafting Christian Communities Today. Lincoln, NE: AuthorsGuild, Backinprint.com, 2001.


Course Requirements

LIM online courses are available for 3 graduate semester credits or 3 continuing education units.

Graduate students will participate in the class by:

  • completing readings in assigned texts and review of other course materials each week
  • posting responses to discussion questions and to the reflections of other students at least three times each week (10 weekly sessions)
  • completing two reflective essays (described in more detail in the course syllabus)

CEU students will participate in the class by:

  • completing readings in assigned texts and review of other course materials each week
  • posting responses to discussion questions and to the reflections of other students at least three times each week (10 weekly sessions)

 

How to Register