UMS : Unit: DP9205W

Content

This unit explores the art of engaging in Christian life and ministry with a contemplative awareness.
It will examine the Biblical, theological and practical foundations for a Christian contemplative spirituality and the implications of this posture of union with God for one’s personal life, relationships, ministry and involvement in wider society. Particular focus will be given to: The Biblical, theological and practical issues of reconciling one’s active and contemplative life with the personal and social dimensions of ministry; A theological understanding and critical engagement with the dynamics of forgiveness and reconciliation in ministry from a contemplative awareness; Spiritual and practical exercises to increase their awareness of being present to themselves, the Holy Spirit and to others.

Unit code: DP9205W

Unit status: Approved (Major revision)

Points: 24.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Elective

Unit discipline: Pastoral Theology and Ministry Studies

Delivery Mode: Face to Face

Proposing College: Whitley College

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Learning outcomes

1.	Articulate the Biblical and theological foundations for a contemplative spirituality in Christian life and ministry
2.	Identify the challenges and resources to live with a contemplative awareness in daily life
3.	Evaluate the effect of a contemplative practice and vision on a person’s engagement in ministry
4.	Analyse their theological and practical understanding of forgiveness, reconciliation and non-violent social action for a particular cultural and social context
5.	Critically self-evaluate their growth through personal and peer supervision
6.	Articulate a theological synthesis of theory and practice for a contemplative approach to ministry and social action

Unit sequence

24 Points in Field D

Pedagogy

Lectures (pre-recorded and live), seminar discussions, workshops, student case studies and presentations

Indicative Bibliography

Armstrong, K. Twelve steps to a compassionate life. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2010.
Barton, R.H. Invitation to Solitude and Silence. 2nd Edition. Downer’s Grove, IL: IVP, 2010.
Benner, D.G.Presence and Encounter. Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos, 2014.
Benner, D.G. Desiring God’s Will. Downer’s Grove, IL: IVP, 2005.
Greenspan, M. Healing through the Dark Emotions. Boston, MA: Shambhala Pubs, 2003.
Laird, M. OSA. Into the Silent Land. New York: Oxford Press, 2006.
McHugh, Adam. The Listening Life. Downer's Grove, IL: IVP Books, 2015.
Newell, J.P. The Rebirthing of God. Woodstock, VT: SkyLight Paths Publ., 2014.
Palmer, P. A Hidden Wholeness. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2004.
Schreiter, R. The Ministry of Reconciliation. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis, 1998.
Wink, W. The Powers that Be: Theology for a new millennium. New York: Doubleday 1998.
Worthington, E. Dimensions of forgiveness. Radnor, PA: Templeton, 1998.

Assessment

Type	Description	Word count	Weight (%)
Personal & Professional Evaluation	One self-awareness report	2250	30.0
Case Study	One case study	2250	30.0
Essay	One Essay	3000	40.0

Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Maggie Kappelhoff on 2 Sep, 2021

Unit record last updated: 2021-09-02 11:43:48 +1000