Course Descriptions

CORE COURSES

The course title is followed by the name of the regular instructor for the course and his/her institutional affiliation. Other instructors may be substituted when necessary.

PT 500 Biblical Foundations: The Hebrew Scriptures Rabbi Jeff Ableser, Assumption University
This course will offer a survey of the history, geography and major theological themes of the Hebrew Bible. Attention will be paid to the principles of Biblical interpretation and the historical-critical method of study. An exegesis of selected passages will assist the development of biblical understanding and integration with contemporary Christian living.
3 credits

PT 510 Biblical Foundations: The Christian Scriptures Dr. Alistair Weir, Canterbury College
This course introduces the student to the New Testament by surveying its content, background and composition. An examination of both the Gospels and Pauline Literature will be included. Upon completion of this course the student will have the basis for further studies in the New Testament.
3 credits

PT 520 Church History: The First Millennium Rev. Gordon Maitland, Canterbury College
This course will present a general survey of the history of Christianity, in its various forms, from the Acts of the Apostles to the estrangement between East and West in the eleventh century. Particular attention will be given to the development of Christian doctrine and the great ecumenical councils of the first millennium of Christianity.
3 credits

PT 530 Introduction to Theology Dr. Norman King, Iona College
This course will explore themes and topics in systematic theology through the exploration of representative theologians of the twentieth century, their approaches or methodology, their writings on the central teachings of Christianity, and their relationship with other authors and current cultural issues.
3 credits

PT 540 Christian Vision of the Human Person Anne Shore, Assumption University
This course, from a Christian perspective, will seek to answer the questions - what does it mean to become truly human? What is there in our shared humanity that binds us together into one, making us sisters and brothers? In what way does Jesus transform our humanness? Concepts of creation and hell, grace, holiness and eschatology and human realities such as freedom, sexuality, community, culture and race will be addressed.
3 credits

PT 550 Introduction to Christian Ethics Dr. Ed King, Iona College
This course will explore the foundational questions related to the classic concerns regarding the moral person, the meaning and sources of moral good and the processes and criteria for moral evaluation. Topics include: the history of moral theology, scripture and ethics, conscience, sin and failure, feminist understanding of sin and conversion, natural law and moral norms. Practical issues will be used to illustrate these principles.
3 credits

PT 560 Foundations of Worship / Liturgy Dr. Jay Koyle, Canterbury College
Liturgy - the corporate worship of the church - is the foundational source and manifestation of both Christian theology and spirituality. This introduction to Liturgical Theology focuses on the meaning of faith as expressed and shaped in the rituals and sacramental life of the church, historically and in present day contexts. Participants will engage in a comprehensive survey of the Liturgy as it expresses, forms and informs Christian identity, belief and practice - considering such topics as the Trinitarian understanding of God, the person and work of Christ, the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian life, the nature of the church, Christian participation in the mission of God in the world, the mystical tradition and prayer.
3 credits

PT 570 Pastoral Care in Ministry Dr. Norman King, Iona College & Rev. Bev Diet, Canterbury College
This course examines the notion of ministry as a dimension of human caring as well as the roots, nature, and forms of Christian ministry, from its New Testament origins to its present expressions. It will also introduce the student to critical pastoral care skills dealing with communication, assertiveness and conflict resolution. This course will examine a variety of particular pastoral care issues: e.g. loss and bereavement, addictions, suicide, gender orientation struggles and divorce.
3 credits

ELECTIVE COURSES

The following are possible electives which may be offered in this degree program and the name of the person who would teach the course if / when offered. The university cannot guarantee that any or all of these courses will be offered during the time a particular student is enrolled in the degree program. They are offered here as examples of the kind of electives the student can expect to find offered in the program.

PT 501 Women of Hebrew Scripture Mary Mousseau, Assumption University
Recent biblical scholarship has brought new focus to an understanding of significant women and their life witness within the Hebrew scripture gift of revelation. The meaning and challenge of these women will be linked to our own lives today.
1 - 3 credits

PT 503 Postmodern Biblical Interpretation David Thiessen, Canterbury College
Keeping one on the cultural shift from "modernity" to "postmodernity" this course aims to explore how this shift has affected the way the Bible has been read and is being read. We will consider the ways in which modern Enlightenment assumptions tended to distance the Bible from the Church and the life of faith, and ask how postmodern thinking has helped to re-open the possibility of reading the Bible within and for the life of the church.
1 - 3 credits

PT 504 Themes in Biblical Literature Rev. BoJeong Kim, Iona College
Course description is currently being developed.
1 - 3 credits

PT 511 Real to Reel: Jesus in the Movies Anne Shore, Assumption University
The story of Jesus is told and retold in every age and culture. From the earliest oral traditions to contemporary art and film, we continue to seek out the Jesus story. This course will look at film stories of Jesus. Four Jesus films will form the basis of the course. Films will be watched at home and discussed in the classroom. We will look at how the various films have presented Jesus and His Good News, what each tells us about Jesus and how each connects to our own stories of Jesus and the gospels. Course participants will be introduced to film resources and strategies to incorporate these insights into a variety of ministry and religious education settings.
1 - 3 credits

PT 512 Women in the New Testament Mary Mousseau, Assumption University
This course will focus on the named and un-named women who either experienced themselves or had eye-witness accounts of Jesus' mercy, healing and resurrection. The course will approach the various texts from a variety of contemporary interpretations. It will examine the awesome positive and negative roles ascribed to women that literally made history through historical-critical, feminist, and sociological approaches.

1 - 3 credits

PT 513 Pastoral Issues in the Gospel of Matthew Rev. William Riegel CSB, Assumption University
Using the Gospel as a foundation for understanding Matthew's vision of the church, this course will seek to explore how this vision impacts various issues of church in our contemporary world.
1 - 3 credits

PT 518 Pauline Texts Dr. Alistair Weir, Canterbury College
This course will examine various approaches to the letters of Paul in contemporary scholarship. Various literary forms of Paul's communication will be recognized. Specific reference will be given to the rhetoric Paul employs in making his arguments; the sources Paul draws on; the communities he writes to and a profile of the members. Movement from the various letters will offer a coherent statement of Paul's theology
1 - 3 credits

PT 521 West Encounters East Rev. Gordon Maitland, Canterbury College
This course will present an introduction to the various forms of Eastern Christianity for Westerners unfamiliar with Eastern Christianity. The lectures will include such topics as Eastern Christian liturgy and architecture, "reading" (interpreting) icons, Eastern Christian spirituality (the use of the "Jesus Prayer") and issues of estrangement of Eastern Christianity from Western Christianity. Students will take a "field trip" in which they will attend a service of Orthodox Vespers at a local Orthodox Church
1 - 3 credits

PT 522 Liturgist, Apologist, Theologian, and Poet - Anglican Reformation History Rev. Gordon Maitland, Canterbury College
This course includes readings from authors of the reformation era of Anglicanism which have shaped the Anglican ethos and contributed to some of its distinctive features. Along with selected readings from Thomas Cranmer, John Jewel, Richard Hooker, John Donne, and George Herbert, the student will be introduced to the Book of Common Prayer and the XXXIX Articles of Religion. The unique contribution of a woman (Queen Elizabeth I) to the Anglican Settlement will also be mentioned.
1 - 3 credits

PT 523 Vatican II Anne Shore, Assumption University
This course will look at the documents and themes of Vatican II and their impact on the contemporary church. Ministry, church in the world, mission and inter-religious dialogue will be of particular concern in the course.
1 - 3 credits

PT 524 Fostering Ministerial Congregations Dr. Jay Koyle, Canterbury College
This course will consider the theology and praxis of missional church, describing effective strategies for promoting a missional orientation within a congregation. Participants will survey concrete patterns and practices of churches (and their leaders), from a variety of denominations that understand their purpose as participating in the missio dei. The implications of this understanding for worship, preaching, hospitality, evangelism, formation and education, political and advocacy work, outreach and relief efforts, and other dimensions of the church's life will be investigated. Students will engage in theological discourse on a missional framework for ministry and develop specific ministry applications of missional practice for their congregations / faith communities.
1 - 3 credits

PT 531 An Introduction to The Theology of Karl Rahner Dr. Norman King, Iona College
This course will introduce the underlying vision, central themes, and some practical implications of the theology of Karl Rahner. It will consider his thought as an approach to systematic theology which attempts to be faithful to the Christian tradition, to respond to the experience and questions of the present, and to open up to new vistas for the future.
1 - 3 credits

PT 532 Jesus Christ and His Ministry Dr. Norman King, Iona College
This course will examine the faith meaning and significance of the historical person, message and ministry of Jesus Christ. Various biblical, doctrinal and contemporary theological / Christological interpretations will be surveyed. This study will be focused by the student's concern for deepening his / her own spirituality of Christian discipleship.
1 - 3 credits

PT 533 The Absence of God Rev. Ann Corbett, Iona College
As Christians, we spend much time celebrating the presence of God, and, yet, we frequently fail to ignore the oft-lived experience that God appears to be absent. This experience of a hidden or withdrawn presence of God cries out to be addressed from both a theological and pastoral perspective. Referring to various narratives - from medieval to post-modern, from St. John of the Cross to Mother Teresa - we will examine the professed experience of the "absence of God". This will give us insight into our own spiritual journey and will, hopefully, enable us to continue that journey more thoughtfully and empathically with others.
1 - 3 credits

PT 534 God, Suffering, and Evil Dr. Norman King, Iona College
If God is good and all-powerful, why is there so much suffering and evil in the world? Various attempts to answer the question (Augustine, Irenaeus, Hartsorne) will be considered and evaluated as the theological problems which the question raises are explored.
1 - 3 credits

PT 541 Personal Spiritual Formation and Development Dr. Timothy Dobbin, Canterbury College
This course intends to explore the wide variety of resources God has made available through the Church for spiritual formation both in and through the servant minister's journey with Christ and Christ's people. It is expected that such an exploration will reveal God's desire to nourish a lifetime of service.
1 - 3 credits

PT 542 Spirituality through Music Dr. Norman King and Jane Ripley, Iona College
This course will explore the power of music to express and evoke the deepest humanity; to heal, renew, and develop the person; and to put us in touch with the sacredness and mystery of the universe. Consideration of the connection of music with silence, listening, and discovery of one's authentic voice; its essentially rational and communal dimension; its blend of inner depth and outer expression; its link with presence, memory, and longing.
1 - 3 credits

PT 551 Moral Issues of Our Times Rev. Victor Clore, Assumption University
This course will provide the opportunity for participants to explore interesting and important moral issues within the fields of health care and ethics, ecology, business and the professions. It will be grounded in theological reflection and sessions will engage students in challenging discussions around practical applications for pastoral ministry.
1 - 3 credits

PT 552 Making Social Justice Real Anne Shore, Assumption University
This course will look at the biblical and ecclesial calls to justice and peace. It will demonstrate how principles of social justice promote and make concrete connections between faith and life, prayer and worship. It will include a practical plan for the development of social justice programs and learning opportunities for both parish and school settings. The course will deal with the practical implications of working for justice within such issues as: hunger and poverty, globalization issues, environment, racism and human rights.
1 - 3 credits

PT 561 Lectionary Based Preaching Dr. Jay Koyle, Canterbury College
Students gain instruction and experience in learning how to be effective communicators of the gospel through the discipline of preaching the texts of the Revised Common Lectionary. The course includes a theological and historical introduction to lectionary based preaching, including an understanding of the Church Seasons as a framework for the lectionary selections.
1 - 3 credits

PT 562 Pastoral Issues in the Sacramental Preparation of Children Sr. Barbara Rund, Assumption University
This course will focus on the pastoral preparation for the sacraments of Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation. It will survey contemporary approaches to these sacraments as they relate to the spiritual growth on individuals and community.
1 - 3 credits

PT 571 Ministry of Listening Rev. Bev Diet, Canterbury College
This course is an introduction to the theology and practice of listening within the context of relationship, pastoral care and general ministry. The course will of particular benefit to pastoral ministers, coordinators of youth ministry, chaplains and all those who work with others. This course will give special attention to the ministering person, listening skills, and pastoral care as a context for counselling and hospital visitation.
1 - 3 credits

PT 572 Addiction and Pastoral Care Rev. William Riegel CSB, Assumption University
This course will focus on the addictive personality as expressed in the many forms of addiction such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, sex, relationships, co-dependency, even religion. Various models will be studied in understanding addiction and the addictive process. Emphasis will be given to how addiction impacts relationships such as the family and to pastoral approaches with various groups such as men, women, youth, trauma victims, seniors, and others. This course will provide pastoral care workers, teachers, and health professionals with insights in recognizing addiction and offering pastoral care and support
1 - 3 credits

PT 573 Holiday Harmony: Coping with Grief during Christmastime, Holidays and Other Annual Reminders of Loss Rev. Beverley Diet, Canterbury College
This course will help the students to gain knowledge and insight into the grief process. It will help them understand the impact of Christmas and other annual reminders of grieving. Our losses may not be due only to the death of a loved one - it could be a change in a relationship or the loss of employment. In this process we will explore our expectations of Christmas and look at some helpful suggestions for the holidays.
1 - 3 credits

PT 575 Ministry to the Aging Community Rev. Joe Quinn CSB, Assumption University
This course will address itself to the concerns of those who live with or care for those persons whose spirituality celebrates the mature years of life. It will focus on such themes as: Christian maturity, the human experiences of loss and diminishment, creative inter-generational relationships, the pastoral issues in care giving for an elderly parent / parishioner.
1 - 3 credits

PT 576 Women's Issues in Pastoral Care Norene Chevalier, Assumption University
The purpose of this course is to address those issues and concerns that are commonly presented by women in counselling by using a holistic perspective (bio-psycho-social-spiritual). A variety of women-specific issues will be addressed: domestic violence, addictions, depression, post-traumatic stress, life-cycles, and body image. First person accounts (video, lyrics, poems, autobiographies) will be utilized to emphasize personal aspects. Specific resources needed to provide effective counselling will be presented. By the end of the course, it is expected that students will be more knowledgeable and prepared to provide pastoral care to women.
1 - 3 credits

PT 580 Foundations of Christian Religious Education Anne Shore, Assumption University
This course will explore the field of religious education. It will look at the ways of fostering growth in faith over the life cycle: children youth, young adults and adults. It will address the areas of: catechesis, evangelization, witness, call and discipleship, the ministry of the catechist (teacher), whole community catechesis and sacramental preparation.
1 - 3 credits

<h1>Course Descriptions</h1>

CORE COURSES

The course title is followed by the name of the regular instructor for the course and his/her institutional affiliation. Other instructors may be substituted when necessary.

PT 500 Biblical Foundations: The Hebrew Scriptures Rabbi Jeff Ableser, Assumption University
 
This course will offer a survey of the history, geography and major theological themes of the Hebrew Bible. Attention will be paid to the principles of Biblical interpretation and the historical-critical method of study. An exegesis of selected passages will assist the development of biblical understanding and integration with contemporary Christian living. 
 
3 credits

PT 510 Biblical Foundations: The Christian Scriptures Dr. Alistair Weir, Canterbury College
 
This course introduces the student to the New Testament by surveying its content, background and composition. An examination of both the Gospels and Pauline Literature will be included. Upon completion of this course the student will have the basis for further studies in the New Testament.
 
3 credits

PT 520 Church History: The First Millennium Rev. Gordon Maitland, Canterbury College
 
This course will present a general survey of the history of Christianity, in its various forms, from the Acts of the Apostles to the estrangement between East and West in the eleventh century. Particular attention will be given to the development of Christian doctrine and the great ecumenical councils of the first millennium of Christianity.
 
3 credits

PT 530 Introduction to Theology Dr. Norman King, Iona College
 
This course will explore themes and topics in systematic theology through the exploration of representative theologians of the twentieth century, their approaches or methodology, their writings on the central teachings of Christianity, and their relationship with other authors and current cultural issues.
 
3 credits

PT 540 Christian Vision of the Human Person Anne Shore, Assumption University
 
This course, from a Christian perspective, will seek to answer the questions - what does it mean to become truly human? What is there in our shared humanity that binds us together into one, making us sisters and brothers? In what way does Jesus transform our humanness? Concepts of creation and hell, grace, holiness and eschatology and human realities such as freedom, sexuality, community, culture and race will be addressed.
 
3 credits

PT 550 Introduction to Christian Ethics Dr. Ed King, Iona College
 
This course will explore the foundational questions related to the classic concerns regarding the moral person, the meaning and sources of moral good and the processes and criteria for moral evaluation. Topics include: the history of moral theology, scripture and ethics, conscience, sin and failure, feminist understanding of sin and conversion, natural law and moral norms. Practical issues will be used to illustrate these principles.
 
3 credits

PT 560 Foundations of Worship / Liturgy Dr. Jay Koyle, Canterbury College
 
Liturgy - the corporate worship of the church - is the foundational source and manifestation of both Christian theology and spirituality. This introduction to Liturgical Theology focuses on the meaning of faith as expressed and shaped in the rituals and sacramental life of the church, historically and in present day contexts. Participants will engage in a comprehensive survey of the Liturgy as it expresses, forms and informs Christian identity, belief and practice - considering such topics as the Trinitarian understanding of God, the person and work of Christ, the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian life, the nature of the church, Christian participation in the mission of God in the world, the mystical tradition and prayer.
 
3 credits

PT 570 Pastoral Care in Ministry Dr. Norman King, Iona College & Rev. Bev Diet, Canterbury College
 
This course examines the notion of ministry as a dimension of human caring as well as the roots, nature, and forms of Christian ministry, from its New Testament origins to its present expressions. It will also introduce the student to critical pastoral care skills dealing with communication, assertiveness and conflict resolution. This course will examine a variety of particular pastoral care issues: e.g. loss and bereavement, addictions, suicide, gender orientation struggles and divorce.
 
3 credits
 
 
ELECTIVE COURSES
The following are possible electives which may be offered in this degree program and the name of the person who would teach the course if / when offered. The university cannot guarantee that any or all of these courses will be offered during the time a particular student is enrolled in the degree program. They are offered here as examples of the kind of electives the student can expect to find offered in the program.

PT 501 Women of Hebrew Scripture Mary Mousseau, Assumption University
 
Recent biblical scholarship has brought new focus to an understanding of significant women and their life witness within the Hebrew scripture gift of revelation. The meaning and challenge of these women will be linked to our own lives today.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 503 Postmodern Biblical Interpretation David Thiessen, Canterbury College
 
Keeping one on the cultural shift from "modernity" to "postmodernity" this course aims to explore how this shift has affected the way the Bible has been read and is being read. We will consider the ways in which modern Enlightenment assumptions tended to distance the Bible from the Church and the life of faith, and ask how postmodern thinking has helped to re-open the possibility of reading the Bible within and for the life of the church.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 504 Themes in Biblical Literature Rev. BoJeong Kim, Iona College
 
Course description is currently being developed.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 511 Real to Reel: Jesus in the Movies Anne Shore, Assumption University
 
The story of Jesus is told and retold in every age and culture. From the earliest oral traditions to contemporary art and film, we continue to seek out the Jesus story. This course will look at film stories of Jesus. Four Jesus films will form the basis of the course. Films will be watched at home and discussed in the classroom. We will look at how the various films have presented Jesus and His Good News, what each tells us about Jesus and how each connects to our own stories of Jesus and the gospels. Course participants will be introduced to film resources and strategies to incorporate these insights into a variety of ministry and religious education settings.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 512 Women in the New Testament Mary Mousseau, Assumption University
 
This course will focus on the named and un-named women who either experienced themselves or had eye-witness accounts of Jesus' mercy, healing and resurrection. The course will approach the various texts from a variety of contemporary interpretations. It will examine the awesome positive and negative roles ascribed to women that literally made history through historical-critical, feminist, and sociological approaches. 
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 513 Pastoral Issues in the Gospel of Matthew Rev. William Riegel CSB, Assumption University
 
Using the Gospel as a foundation for understanding Matthew's vision of the church, this course will seek to explore how this vision impacts various issues of church in our contemporary world.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 518 Pauline Texts Dr. Alistair Weir, Canterbury College
 
This course will examine various approaches to the letters of Paul in contemporary scholarship. Various literary forms of Paul's communication will be recognized. Specific reference will be given to the rhetoric Paul employs in making his arguments; the sources Paul draws on; the communities he writes to and a profile of the members. Movement from the various letters will offer a coherent statement of Paul's theology
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 521 West Encounters East Rev. Gordon Maitland, Canterbury College
 
This course will present an introduction to the various forms of Eastern Christianity for Westerners unfamiliar with Eastern Christianity. The lectures will include such topics as Eastern Christian liturgy and architecture, "reading" (interpreting) icons, Eastern Christian spirituality (the use of the "Jesus Prayer") and issues of estrangement of Eastern Christianity from Western Christianity. Students will take a "field trip" in which they will attend a service of Orthodox Vespers at a local Orthodox Church
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 522 Liturgist, Apologist, Theologian, and Poet - Anglican Reformation History Rev. Gordon Maitland, Canterbury College
 
This course includes readings from authors of the reformation era of Anglicanism which have shaped the Anglican ethos and contributed to some of its distinctive features. Along with selected readings from Thomas Cranmer, John Jewel, Richard Hooker, John Donne, and George Herbert, the student will be introduced to the Book of Common Prayer and the XXXIX Articles of Religion. The unique contribution of a woman (Queen Elizabeth I) to the Anglican Settlement will also be mentioned.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 523 Vatican II Anne Shore, Assumption University
 
This course will look at the documents and themes of Vatican II and their impact on the contemporary church. Ministry, church in the world, mission and inter-religious dialogue will be of particular concern in the course.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 524 Fostering Ministerial Congregations Dr. Jay Koyle, Canterbury College
 
This course will consider the theology and praxis of missional church, describing effective strategies for promoting a missional orientation within a congregation. Participants will survey concrete patterns and practices of churches (and their leaders), from a variety of denominations that understand their purpose as participating in the missio dei. The implications of this understanding for worship, preaching, hospitality, evangelism, formation and education, political and advocacy work, outreach and relief efforts, and other dimensions of the church's life will be investigated. Students will engage in theological discourse on a missional framework for ministry and develop specific ministry applications of missional practice for their congregations / faith communities.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 531 An Introduction to The Theology of Karl Rahner Dr. Norman King, Iona College
 
This course will introduce the underlying vision, central themes, and some practical implications of the theology of Karl Rahner. It will consider his thought as an approach to systematic theology which attempts to be faithful to the Christian tradition, to respond to the experience and questions of the present, and to open up to new vistas for the future.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 532 Jesus Christ and His Ministry Dr. Norman King, Iona College
 
This course will examine the faith meaning and significance of the historical person, message and ministry of Jesus Christ. Various biblical, doctrinal and contemporary theological / Christological interpretations will be surveyed. This study will be focused by the student's concern for deepening his / her own spirituality of Christian discipleship.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 533 The Absence of God Rev. Ann Corbett, Iona College
 
As Christians, we spend much time celebrating the presence of God, and, yet, we frequently fail to ignore the oft-lived experience that God appears to be absent. This experience of a hidden or withdrawn presence of God cries out to be addressed from both a theological and pastoral perspective. Referring to various narratives - from medieval to post-modern, from St. John of the Cross to Mother Teresa - we will examine the professed experience of the "absence of God". This will give us insight into our own spiritual journey and will, hopefully, enable us to continue that journey more thoughtfully and empathically with others.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 534 God, Suffering, and Evil Dr. Norman King, Iona College
 
If God is good and all-powerful, why is there so much suffering and evil in the world? Various attempts to answer the question (Augustine, Irenaeus, Hartsorne) will be considered and evaluated as the theological problems which the question raises are explored.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 541 Personal Spiritual Formation and Development Dr. Timothy Dobbin, Canterbury College
 
This course intends to explore the wide variety of resources God has made available through the Church for spiritual formation both in and through the servant minister's journey with Christ and Christ's people. It is expected that such an exploration will reveal God's desire to nourish a lifetime of service.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 542 Spirituality through Music Dr. Norman King and Jane Ripley, Iona College
 
This course will explore the power of music to express and evoke the deepest humanity; to heal, renew, and develop the person; and to put us in touch with the sacredness and mystery of the universe. Consideration of the connection of music with silence, listening, and discovery of one's authentic voice; its essentially rational and communal dimension; its blend of inner depth and outer expression; its link with presence, memory, and longing.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 551 Moral Issues of Our Times Rev. Victor Clore, Assumption University
 
This course will provide the opportunity for participants to explore interesting and important moral issues within the fields of health care and ethics, ecology, business and the professions. It will be grounded in theological reflection and sessions will engage students in challenging discussions around practical applications for pastoral ministry.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 552 Making Social Justice Real Anne Shore, Assumption University
 
This course will look at the biblical and ecclesial calls to justice and peace. It will demonstrate how principles of social justice promote and make concrete connections between faith and life, prayer and worship. It will include a practical plan for the development of social justice programs and learning opportunities for both parish and school settings. The course will deal with the practical implications of working for justice within such issues as: hunger and poverty, globalization issues, environment, racism and human rights.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 561 Lectionary Based Preaching Dr. Jay Koyle, Canterbury College
 
Students gain instruction and experience in learning how to be effective communicators of the gospel through the discipline of preaching the texts of the Revised Common Lectionary. The course includes a theological and historical introduction to lectionary based preaching, including an understanding of the Church Seasons as a framework for the lectionary selections.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 562 Pastoral Issues in the Sacramental Preparation of Children Sr. Barbara Rund, Assumption University
 
This course will focus on the pastoral preparation for the sacraments of Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation. It will survey contemporary approaches to these sacraments as they relate to the spiritual growth on individuals and community.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 571 Ministry of Listening Rev. Bev Diet, Canterbury College
 
This course is an introduction to the theology and practice of listening within the context of relationship, pastoral care and general ministry. The course will of particular benefit to pastoral ministers, coordinators of youth ministry, chaplains and all those who work with others. This course will give special attention to the ministering person, listening skills, and pastoral care as a context for counselling and hospital visitation.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 572 Addiction and Pastoral Care Rev. William Riegel CSB, Assumption University
 
This course will focus on the addictive personality as expressed in the many forms of addiction such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, sex, relationships, co-dependency, even religion. Various models will be studied in understanding addiction and the addictive process. Emphasis will be given to how addiction impacts relationships such as the family and to pastoral approaches with various groups such as men, women, youth, trauma victims, seniors, and others. This course will provide pastoral care workers, teachers, and health professionals with insights in recognizing addiction and offering pastoral care and support
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 573 Holiday Harmony: Coping with Grief during Christmastime, Holidays and Other Annual Reminders of Loss Rev. Beverley Diet, Canterbury College
 
This course will help the students to gain knowledge and insight into the grief process. It will help them understand the impact of Christmas and other annual reminders of grieving. Our losses may not be due only to the death of a loved one - it could be a change in a relationship or the loss of employment. In this process we will explore our expectations of Christmas and look at some helpful suggestions for the holidays.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 575 Ministry to the Aging Community Rev. Joe Quinn CSB, Assumption University
 
This course will address itself to the concerns of those who live with or care for those persons whose spirituality celebrates the mature years of life. It will focus on such themes as: Christian maturity, the human experiences of loss and diminishment, creative inter-generational relationships, the pastoral issues in care giving for an elderly parent / parishioner.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 576 Women's Issues in Pastoral Care Norene Chevalier, Assumption University
 
The purpose of this course is to address those issues and concerns that are commonly presented by women in counselling by using a holistic perspective (bio-psycho-social-spiritual). A variety of women-specific issues will be addressed: domestic violence, addictions, depression, post-traumatic stress, life-cycles, and body image. First person accounts (video, lyrics, poems, autobiographies) will be utilized to emphasize personal aspects. Specific resources needed to provide effective counselling will be presented. By the end of the course, it is expected that students will be more knowledgeable and prepared to provide pastoral care to women.
 
1 - 3 credits

PT 580 Foundations of Christian Religious Education Anne Shore, Assumption University
 
This course will explore the field of religious education. It will look at the ways of fostering growth in faith over the life cycle: children youth, young adults and adults. It will address the areas of: catechesis, evangelization, witness, call and discipleship, the ministry of the catechist (teacher), whole community catechesis and sacramental preparation.
 
1 - 3 credits