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Degree Course Descriptions
Biblical Studies
Old Testament
An introductory overview of the Old Testament. The course examines the individual books of the Old Testament as well as such topics as people, lands, methodology, sources, composition, history, etc. Special attention is given to the Torah, and in particular, Genesis, as the foundation for understanding the Old Testament. This course is recommended as preparation for all other Old Testament courses
An exploration of the first five books of the Old Testament that examines critical issues in the modern study of the Torah/Pentateuch. Topics include origins, composition, literary form, and canonization of the Torah, and is presented through study and discussions enriched by a close reading of the Books of Genesis, Exodus, Deuteronomy, Leviticus and Numbers.
An introduction to the psalms as scripture and their role within the liturgical life of their times and ours.
A study of introductory issues related to the prophetic tradition as reflected in representative literature of the Old Testament. The course examines the relevant historical background, theological themes and contemporary relevance of selected Hebrew Prophets.
An examination of the literary style and theological themes of wisdom literature in the Old Testament books, including a move beyond collective and general themes into the unique features of one or more books.
The student selects a topic in the field of Biblical Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
The student selects a topic in the field of Biblical Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
New Testament
An introductory overview of the New Testament. Two primary aims are to introduce students to the material of the New Testament, from the historical context of the first-century eastern Mediterranean world to an examination of certain canonical books, and to give students a working knowledge of the critical methodology and tools necessary for responsible biblical research. This course is recommended as preparation for all other New Testament and Intertestamental courses.
An examination of the accounts of the passion and death of Jesus in their original historical and literary contexts. The historical and critical method is employed with particular emphasis on redaction-and source-criticism, although text-critical and form-critical questions are also raised. The literary patterns and theological agendas of the Synoptic passion narratives (and to a lesser extent, the Johannine Passion Narrative) are examined through a close redactional analysis.
An introductory overview of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as presented in the gospels. Particular emphasis is given to the Synoptic gospels.
An introductory overview of the Gospel of John, developed through a series of lectures and seminars. Having examined pertinent introductory issues, special emphasis is given to major topics such as Signs, Johannine-Synoptic Relationship, Role of Women, Faith, Christology, Duality, Symbolism, and Eschatology.
An introduction to the Pauline corpus and Pauline thought. The course is designed to introduce students to pertinent socio-historical information concerning the first-century eastern Mediterranean world, critical methodology, problems in Pauline scholarship and major issues and themes arising from each letter. Special attention is given to the ecclesiological and theological significance of Paul’s letters for Christians and Christianity.
An exploration of the General and the Pastoral Epistles of the New Testament. The study of these non-Pauline perspectives on the first generations of the church will enhance appreciation of the understanding of development of the theology of God, Christology, ecclesiology, eschatology and other theological themes.
As an introduction to the genre of apocalyptic writing and thought, this course explores the historical context and life setting of that original audience, and the meaning that this genre of literature had on its first readers. The course moves into a more in-depth study of the Book of Revelation in its historical context, and the importance of exegesis and interpretation of apocalyptic literature in academic and pastoral work.
The student selects a topic in the field of Biblical Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
The student selects a topic in the field of Biblical Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
Research and reflection on historical issues and significant sites in the Old and New Testament visited on an organized pilgrimage.
Equivalent to five three-credit-hours courses for students enrolled in the M.T.S. Thesis Option, which may be apportioned over two or more semesters.
Intertestamental
The Intertestamental period (about 400 BC to 100 AD) produced a number of significant writings including the Deuterocanonical writings, Pseudepigrapha, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. The course will help students to ascertain the development of thought, language and religion between the Old and New Testaments, and may count as either an Old Testament or a New Testament elective.
Church History
An examination of developments within the Christian Church from its Jewish roots until modern times. Emphasis will be given to significant personalities and important historical events.
A survey of the core convictions and concerns that have characterized Anglican theology from the Reformers to the present. The course will include a discussion of Anglican identity today.
A study of the religious history of Newfoundland and Labrador from its earliest beginnings to the present.
The focus of the course is to provide a brief historical background and discussion of the current state of the reconciliation process, and to frame the present pastoral and theological questions with respect to the relation of Indigenous Peoples and the Church in Canada.
The student selects a topic in the field of Church History and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
The student selects a topic in the field of Church History and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
The student will have opportunity to explore and research religious art, as well as visit some local significant sites.
Pastoral Studies
An opportunity to explore evangelization as an essential skill in pastoral ministry. Students will have exposure to theoretical and practical aspects of evangelization. They will explore evangelization as a joyful proclamation of the Gospel from the pulpit, in the streets and many sacred and secular settings.
An exploration of the challenges to the faith life of the church as congregations mature and age. This course will pay particular attention to the spiritual nurture and development of mature and senior persons.
(This course focuses on inviting youth and young adults (11-35) into faith. It pays particular attention to life issues encountered by young people (Identity, Belonging, Living into Christian Community, and Discipleship). A variety of approaches and models of providing Christian Education and Spiritual Formation will be explored.)
An Introduction to the Theory and Practice of Christian Religious Education, with a focus on the intergenerational promotion of growth in faith for the individual and the community within the broader parish setting.
An examination of the major challenges to the Christian churches which arise from the normal developmental process whereby adults move from a faith based solely on the authority of their religious tradition to a more personally owned and nuanced understanding of what it means to be a believer. Attention will be paid to the challenges and opportunities this presents to today’s churches. Weekly readings, active participation in classes and journaling will be required.
An introduction to pastoral counseling. Emphasis will be placed upon the development of basic pastoral counseling skills. The course will examine issues and opportunities for pastoral counseling interventions in the parish context.
An introduction to basic theological concepts that give direction and meaning to pastoral ministry. The course is foundational to the “general practitioner” in ministry and allows one to understand and appreciate the uniqueness of pastoral ministry as a vocation and helping profession.
An exposure to the essential skills for effective leadership in modern communities. The course will provide knowledge and skills for stewardship exploring matters such as strategic planning, team building, conflict management, change management, performance appraisal and time management.
An introduction to theories on grief and bereavement. Major emphasis is placed on pastoral ministries to grieving people. Students will become familiar with various types of support programs. Role plays and other experimental activities provide opportunity for practice in grief assessment and counseling.
An exploration of the theological foundations and pastoral skills to respond to the increasing number of seniors in the Church and community. The course will focus on pastoral ministry to seniors and pastoral ministry by seniors. Pastoral ministry to seniors will help students identify and find avenues to address spiritual and faith development needs of seniors. Pastoral care by seniors will examine means by which seniors can find meaning in effective ministries appropriate to their age, stage in life and wellbeing.
A twelve-week period of Clinical Pastoral Education (C.P.E.) taken at an accredited institution under the direction of a supervisor certified by the Canadian Association of Pastoral Education (C.A.P.E.).
A twelve-week supervised placement in an institutional setting in which the student participates in an instruction and a pastoral placement in a model of supervised spiritual direction. The focus is on self-awareness, pastoral presence, and theological reflection under the direction of qualified facilitators.
An historical overview of Christian marriage. It examines individual and relational dynamics in marriages and families. Students develop an understanding of family systems theories and the potential to enrich marriage and family life through effective pastoral ministries.
A fifteen-week unit of training with a supervisor and lay support group within a parochial setting.
An exploration the connections between traditional and current spiritualties and the needs of individuals and faith communities in the 21st century. It will include the insights of science and the impact of our new understandings on Christian belief. Students are required to commit to experiencing and exploring various spiritual practices in light of personal and communal needs.
An exploration of Christian spirituality informed by insights from science and theology. The course will include perspectives of several leading theologians and progressive thinkers who integrate faith, science, contemplation and action.
Provides clergy with the information and skills to mentor individuals preparing for ordination by modelling pastoral practices, demonstrating congregational leadership and offering spiritual guidance.
An introduction to foundational concepts, definitions, traditions and debates related to Christian spiritual formation and an introduction to spiritual direction. The topics and course design will allow exploration of spiritual develop through readings, discussions, lectures, guided experiences, prayer, sharing and spiritual conversations. Prerequisite: An interest in spiritual development.
An exploration of the ministry and art of spiritual companionship and guidance though lectures, readings and presentations from seasoned spiritual directors, as well as class discussions and practice of spiritual exercises. Students will also have opportunity to practice the process of guiding others through triad work within the class. Prerequisites: Module 1 and receiving spiritual direction / guidance / support on a regular basis.
An extended period of practicing the ministry of spiritual direction under the supervision of an experienced spiritual director with opportunities for feedback, reflection and experience of group support. Prerequisites: Completion of Module 2 and willingness to offer oneself as a trainee willing to offer spiritual direction to others under supervision of a competent spiritual director.
The student selects a topic in the field of Pastoral Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor
The student selects a topic in the field of Pastoral Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor
Equivalent to five three-credit-hours courses for students enrolled in the M.T.S. Thesis Option, which may be apportioned over two or more semesters.
Theological Studies
Equips students with fundamentals for the study of theology. It will expose them to essential skills such as basic logic, critical thinking, distributed learning and on-line research. The skills will be acquired while exploring basic philosophical and theological concepts and producing papers that demonstrate a grasp of the concepts and use of the skills.
The course can be counted as two 2000 level courses for those who have completed the Associate in Theology and are preparing for the Bachelor of Theology by Distance. The course can also count as one 3000 Level course credit.
The course is designed to be completed in an on-line format.
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Provides an organized survey of basic doctrines such as our understandings of God, Trinity, Christ, creation and salvation by examining sources, authorities, and the historical and philosophical context in which these ideas are formulated.
Focuses on selected theologians and their historical context and influence. The course will provide students with opportunity to further explore the ideas of theologians and topics of interest.
This course addresses the questions asked by Jesus: “Who do people say I am?” and “Who do you say I am?” Through exploration of Old Testament and New Testament texts, writings of the early Fathers of the Church, conciliar documents, creedal statements, as well as major heresies, the student gains an understanding of the person and work of Jesus the Christ as understood throughout history and as relevant to modern theology, mission and ministry
In today’s highly scientific and materialist culture, the idea of the “soul” is often brushed off as a fable of religion born in less enlightened times. On the other hand, among those who maintain some religious, or spiritual, orientation, the soul is usually spoken of as a given, without any very clear idea of what exactly it is. This course will introduce students to a brief history of varying conceptions of the soul in Western culture: Biblical, Greek, Medieval, Modern, and contemporary.
Explores and critiques a “popular culture” understanding of religion, the Christian Church and ourselves. Participants will have an opportunity to examine how we interact with and contribute to “pop” culture and to consider if and how the Gospel may well be put in conversation with it.
Introduces the student to Christian approaches to the environment and environmental ethics. It will consider a variety of contemporary Christian responses to the environmental crisis which draw from scriptural, doctrinal, philosophical, spiritual, and ethical resources of the tradition in order to promote a more authentic relationship with the earth which is our home. Approaches to be considered include: Christian eco-justice, stewardship, ecological spirituality, and sacramental approaches. Attention will also be given to some typical differences between western Christian (Catholic, Anglican, Protestant) approaches and eastern Christian (Orthodox) ones, with a view towards ecumenical cooperation in working together to heal the earth.
This course will explore a theology of technology, especially the digital technologies social media, meeting platforms, and smart phones and other mobile technology. It will also help students develop practical skills in the development and leadership of online worship, Christian education, spirituality, and public witness.
Explores how our understanding of God shapes the identity and mission of the church. The course will consider the essential connection of theology, ecclesiology mission, and evangelization. The course will examine the themes in light of the entire biblical scope of scriptures and the vocation of the people of God as call to find and respond to the needs and struggles of people everywhere.
Explorations in personal and communal discernment and spiritual resilience for those called to inspire others with a missional vision and to facilitate missional transformation within faith communities.
Examination of cultural realities essential to effective missional work, i.e. the divine task of the Church to spread the message of the Gospel everywhere and to develop the insight to see where God is already at work in the world. This course will draw on themes from social sciences and missional theology to explore understandings of culture and effective cross and mixed cultural engagement, including awareness of secular cultures as well as other denominations and faith traditions. Students will be provided with opportunities to discern and develop an authentic approach to shared missional evangelization in the specific ministry/ministries to which they are/may be called. Cross listed as Pastoral Studies 3400-Q.
Examination of relevant theories and theologies, as well as practice of practical and pastoral skills essential to leading and supporting missional communities and ministries
Exploration of practical matters to enable the formation and renewal of parishes and congregations to transition into becoming missional communities with a focus on missional outreach and ministry. The course will consider practical matters such as geography, demographics, stewardship and worship.
Provide students with methods to understand and appreciate how meaning is related to context and interpretation. While the course will pay attention to biblical hermeneutics, it will also consider other conduits of meaning such as literature, film, and art.
The student selects a topic in the field of Theological Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
The student selects a topic in the field of Theological Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
Moral Theology
An examination of the basis, scope and dynamics of Christian ethics that includes such theological and philosophical topics as Scripture, natural moral law, conscience, reason, freedom, responsibility, obedience and discipleship. It addresses the interplay between individuals, communities of faith and their social contexts. The course format includes some lectures, seminars, presentations and pastoral applications.
A study of the ethical issues facing the Church today such as our history and identity, our national and international bodies, and the realities of local ministry.
Public theology seeks to relate a Christian understanding of the Kingdom of God to social conditions in the societies in which Christians live. This course will examine critically the biblical and theological foundations for liberal societies’ historic emphasis on freedom and respect, tolerance and human rights, along with the accelerating effects of globalization. Specific attention will be given to issues in areas of medical ethics, justice systems, equality and inequality, exclusion & inclusion, and various kinds of political interaction both global and local.
A cross-cultural exploration of the notion of the Common Good, this course will draw on the perspectives of a variety of religious traditions. The role faiths play in the pursuit of the common good will be the focus through dialogue with various faith leaders, readings, seminars and scriptural reasoning.
The focus of the course is to provide a brief historical background and discussion of the current state of the reconciliation process, and to frame the present pastoral and theological questions with respect to the relation of Indigenous Peoples and the Church in Canada.
This course introduces the student to Christian approaches to the environment and environmental ethics. We will begin by examining the roots of the global environmental crisis in Western culture, taking note of the charge which has been made by some (most notably Lynn White Jr.) that Christianity has played a leading role in the development of this crisis. We will then consider a variety of contemporary Christian responses to this crisis which draw from scriptural, doctrinal, philosophical, spiritual, and ethical resources of the tradition in order to promote a more authentic relationship with the earth which is our home. Among those approaches which we will consider are: Christian eco-justice, stewardship, ecological spirituality, and sacramental approaches. Attention will also be given to some typical differences between western Christian (Catholic, Anglican, Protestant) approaches and eastern Christian (Orthodox) ones, with a view towards ecumenical cooperation in working together to heal the earth.
The student selects a topic in the field of Moral Theology and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor
The student selects a topic in the field of Moral Theology and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
Pentecostal Studies
This course is designed to teach Pentecostal pastors to experiment with new missional ministry models while balancing the traditional core values of Pentecostalism. A pastoral candidate entering ministry today must be equipped with a myriad professional skills. As such, this course examines specific pastoral aptitudes such as conflict resolution, team building, and vision casting, as far as they relate to providing the pastoral/missional leadership necessary to evidence pastoral proficiency.
This course studies the doctrine of eschatology – the end times. It explores in detail the key areas of eschatology, from the Rapture of the Church to the Millennial Reign of Christ, relying primarily on Scripture, but with an eye to Church History as well. Various perspectives on the end times are considered, though traditional Pentecostal eschatological thought is given prominence in the course and will conclude with a Pentecostal understanding of the Book of Revelation.
This course explores Pentecostalism from a theological perspective. It examines the understanding of the person and work of the Holy Spirit within a classical Pentecostal theological framework. Special attention is given to those doctrines for which Pentecostalism is most widely known, such as Spirit-baptism (subsequence and initial evidence), healing, worship, and spiritual gifts.
This course explores the theological foundations of the church with a special focus on Pentecostal ecclesiological interpretations, models, and practices. Emphases are placed on the nature, marks, and purposes of the church, church government, practices and sacraments, spiritual gifts in the gathered community, worship, and missional focus. Other theological foci are also explored.
This course examines the diversity of the Christian experience and prevailing cultural distinctiveness which are evidenced in society. It demonstrates how the traditional values and thought of Pentecostalism are of use in aiding pastors to address and interact in an ever changing multicultural society.
Provide students with the tools necessary to address pastoral care and counselling situations in their congregations. Developing fundamental counselling skills through the application of psychological theory and Christian theology will have far reaching implications for Christian ministry. The course will equip students for ministry as pastors competent when called upon to provide counsel and care to a wide variety of needs and situations.
Liturgical Studies
This introductory course surveys the history of liturgical development in the West from New Testament times to the present. Students are introduced to methods, sources and basic concepts of liturgical studies including ritual and symbol. Included within this course are sessions in elocution and church music.
An introduction to the Eucharist as theology and as prayer from its Jewish origins to contemporary liturgical renewal. The Eucharist is considered in its biblical, ritual, historical, and theological dimensions. Special attention is given to developments within the Anglican tradition.
The goal of the course is to develop a realistic, holistis and practical approach to worship with youth in the context of the community of faith. The focus will be on developing theoretical and practical ministry skills in areas such as spiritual disciplines, sacraments, music and retreats with young people that can also be shared with the whole faith community.
This course traces the historical development of Christian initiation (water baptism, laying on of hands, and Eucharist) and the Pastoral Offices (reconciliation, ministry to the sick, matrimony, ordination). Students discover how and why changes in practice and theology took place, and in the light of this, consider critically modern forms of these rites. (Prerequisite: Liturgical Studies 3808-Q)
This course will provide an introduction to the field of homiletics. It will offer an opportunity for students to explore both the theoretical and practical aspects of preaching. Students will develop the necessary skills for biblical preaching and will exercise these skills in both classroom and chapel settings.
Builds on the student’s knowledge and experience in the field of homiletics, this course offers an opportunity for students to explore more fully both the theoretical and practical aspects of preaching. Students will be encouraged to examine various theologies and practices of preaching. Students will discover approaches to proclamation in settings and at times where not conducive typical homilies and preaching. They will consider preaching in a postmodern context, as well as non-traditional memorial services, civic events and community gatherings on special occasions as well as homilies for weddings, funerals, and anniversaries. They will be given the opportunity to exercise their skills in both classroom and chapel settings.
This course will explore a theology of technology, especially the digital technologies social media, meeting platforms, and smart phones and other mobile technology. It will also help students develop practical skills in the development and leadership of online worship, Christian education, spirituality, and public witness.
The student selects a topic in the field of Liturgical Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
The student selects a topic in the field of Liturgical Studies and pursues a course of reading and research in consultation with an instructor.
Integrative Seminar
This seminar course, typically completed in the final year of degree programs, will facilitate integration of student’s learning from life experience, theological studies, pastoral placements and discernment for ministry and leadership. Each student, in consultation with the instructor, selects a topic to research, prepares a written report, and presents on the topic in an interactive forum.
Vocational Development Seminar
Facilitated discussions to help students appreciate the call to Diaconate and / or Priesthood by reflecting on their observations and the experiences shared with them by visiting priests.
An opportunity to examine and appreciate the distinct ministries within the Anglican Church. There will be particular attention to the Marks of Mission, Ministry with Indigenous People; Primates World Development and Relief Fund, and Church Governance.
In exploration of the presiding role at the various liturgical rites in the Anglican Church from both a theological and practical perspective. The focus will help those in ordination stream appreciate the importance of liturgical practices that are built on a theological understanding of the sacraments and rites, as well as the rubrics. Topics include the rubrics and options, gestures, movements, and preparations that facilitate being a prayerful presider who is personally present to the people of God and their worship.
An on-campus exploration of the practical aspects of serving and presiding at liturgies and leading in prayer. It will provide individual and small group coaching in elocution, music ministries, as well as opportunities to explore options and trial liturgies.
The focus is on personal spiritual development by ensuring each student is introduced to a range of Christian spiritual disciplines and options for guidance and direction on their spiritual journey. Individual spiritual direction, peer support groups, and group spiritual direction are among the options to be explored in individual and group sessions organized by the Chaplain.
Provides opportunity to deepen one’s spirituality by participating in and reflecting on organized sessions such as Exploring Prayer and Spiritual Conversations, Days of Awareness, and Silent Retreats. This seminar will expose students to the importance of integrating beliefs, values, practices, workload and lifestyle as a means to, not merely survive or endure the challenges of ministry, but to have joy in the activities of ministry.
Academic Development Seminar
This is a compulsory series for all students admitted to a degree program. The seminars focus on 1. effective and efficient access to and use of research resources; 2. proper use and citation of resources; and 3. critical thinking.
Academic Development Seminar: Research Methods 1: deals with the difference between analysis papers, reflection papers, and research papers; determining researcher and audience roles; gathering one’s sources; creating a template for note-taking; and how to categorize your notes. Research Methods Seminar (Part 1)
Academic Development Seminar: Research Methods 2: deals with planning your draft / creating an outline; engaging your sources creatively; avoiding plagiarism; summarizing, paraphrasing, and quoting your sources; and strategies for working through writers’ block. Research Methods Seminar (Part 2)
Academic Development Seminar: Research Methods 3: deals with how to punctuate quotes; writing introductions and conclusions; how to revise your work; and doing a work-in-progress presentation. Research Methods Seminar (Part 3)