2015 Fall Semester Courses
Online Courses Week of August 31 – week of December 14, 2015
Introduction to Christian Tradition Dale Launderville, OSB 3 credits • THY 402 01A
This course is an introductory survey of theology, studying representative texts from the pre-Christian era to the Reformation (100 B.C. to 1650). Figures and issues will be situated within the philosophical and theological currents of their time.
Christology William Cahoy
3 credits • DOCT 406 01A
Students explore understandings of the person, presence and mission of Christ in Scripture, in doctrine and dogma, and in contemporary theology.
Campus Ministry: At the Intersection of Church, University, and Culture
Barbara Humphrey McCrabb and Donald R McCrabb 3 credits • PTHM 468 02A
An exploration of the context, mission, people, and strategies of campus ministry in service to the evangelizing mission of the Church. What are the fundamental aspects, characteristics and dimensions of campus ministry? Students will consider how campus ministry now - and may in the future - contributes to the Church’s evangelization of culture.
cover photo: Paul Middlestaedt
Ministry on the Margins Barbara Sutton
3 credits • PTHM 468 03A October 12, 2015 – January 25, 2016
This course introduces the practices of discipleship for a church that cares for at-risk communities. The Joy of the Gospel (Pope Francis) will shape the essential lens to view, understand and ultimately respond to the context in which students serve. It will explore foundational values of justice and love necessary for missionary activity, provide tools to advocate for the ‘least of these’ and build communities of hope. Spiritual tools to sustain the person ministering at margin will be explored.
Campus Courses Week of August 31 – week of December 14, 2015
Evening Classes
Liturgical Celebration TBA
3 credits • LTGY 407 01A Mondays 6:00–9:15 PM
Through a sustained reflection on the church’s tradition of lex orandi, lex credendi, students will be introduced to the theory and practice of good liturgical celebration. Contemporary liturgical practice will be evaluated in its historical, cultural, and theological context. Students will learn how the historical development of Christian liturgy, its anthropological dimensions, and important church documents influence how we worship today.
Latino Religious Expressions: Foundations in History and Spirituality Rebecca Berru Davis
3 credits • HHTH 468 01A / SPIR 468 02A/PTHM 468 01A Thursdays 6:00–9:15 PM
This course draws on history and cultural studies to examine the theological and spiritual faith practices of U.S. Latinos. It explores the confluence of indigenous, Iberian, and African traditions; expressions of popular religion and devotion; gender and generational issues; diversity within the Latino community; current debates related to immigration and Catholic social teaching; and present day pastoral interests and concerns within a Latino context. Through the use of text analysis, case studies, writing, and class discussion this course aims at developing deeper appreciation, practical knowledge and the intercultural competencies needed to better serve an increasingly diverse Church.
The Practice of Discernment in Prayer Becky Van Ness
1 credit • SPIR 437 01A Mondays 6:00–8:30 PM September 14; October 5, 19; November 2, 16
Preparatory to listening to others’ experiences of God we will explore how our own image of God evolves as we discern God’s ways of being present to us in prayer and in life. The course will include an introduction to the practice of lectio divina applied to our lived experience. Grading is S/U.
Weekend Classes
The Theology of Vatican II Kristin Colberg
3 credits • DOCT 468 01A Fridays 6:30–9:30 PM / Saturdays 8:00 AM–3:00 PM September 11–12; October 9–10; November 6–7; December 4–5
The Second Vatican Council has impacted virtually every area of Catholic life and thought. The council invited and guided the church to know itself and its relation to the world more deeply, and the implications of this enhanced understanding continue to unfold today. This course approaches the Second Vatican Council as a historical, sociological, and theological event. It examines the development of Vatican II, its final documents and the council’s interpretation. Emphasis will be given to seeing the council as a whole and the way that each particular document -- and all the documents together -- are an expression of the council’s general aims and overarching goals. Additionally, students will be asked to think independently about the connections between particular documents and how the council’s teachings inform contemporary issues.
Evangelization and Catechesis Jeff Kaster
3 credits • PTHM 401 01A Fridays 6:30–9:30 PM / Saturdays 8:00 AM–3:00 PM September 4–5; October 2–3; October 30–31; December 11–12
This course examines contemporary theologies and principles of evangelization and catechesis, theories of human and faith development, and various models and methods of evangelization and catechesis.
Particular attention will be given to advancing catechetical leadership skills in assessment and strategic planning for program improvement.
Daytime Classes
Christology William Cahoy
3 credits • DOCT 406 01A Tuesdays 1:15–4:25 PM
Students explore understandings of the person, presence and mission of Christ in Scripture, in doctrine and dogma, and in contemporary theology.
Reformation, Modernity, and the Global Church Shawn Colberg
3 credits • HHTH 412 01A Wednesdays 8:00–11:10 AM
This course surveys church history from the age of Luther to the present, introducing students to the historical dynamics that transformed the united “Christendom” of the Middle Ages into a diverse and truly global twenty-first century church.
History and Sources of the Liturgy Martin Connell
3 credits • LTGY 400 Mondays and Wednesdays 1:15–2:45 PM
This course explores the historical development and theology in the East and West of the catechumenate and the rites of baptism, the Spirit-gift, and first Eucharist, including contemporary reforms in the churches, with special emphasis on the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.
Modern Liturgical Movements Anthony Ruff, OSB
3 credits • LTGY 468 01A Thursdays 8:00–11:10 AM
A study of the modern liturgical movement, with its roots in the 19th century (Solesmes, Oxford, Tractarians), the new impulse given in 1903 with Pope Pius X’s call for active participation in the liturgy, the breakthrough of the Second Vatican Council, the development of an ecumenical understanding of liturgical renewal, and the implementation of liturgical renewal in the various churches (especially Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran). Attention will be given to the more recent controversies caused by questioning of the movement’s goals at both grass roots and official levels.
Monastic Formation TBA
3 credits • MONS 423 01A Mondays / Wednesdays 9:45–11:10 AM
Monastic formation according to the Rule of Benedict encompasses living the Christian monastic life, from the stages of initial formation through ongoing formation, that is, as a lifelong conversion process. This course will focus on aspects of monastic spirituality essential to integration of the varied dimensions of the human person: thinking, spirituality, affectivity, psychology, theology, reflection, and experience. Topics will include, but will not be limited to: monastic practices of prayer, work and common life; vowed commitment; governance; growth in monastic virtues; vocational discernment; stages of the formation process; and monastic profession.
Eastern Christianity
theologies of ordained and lay ministry. Students also explore basic methods in the practice of ministry.
3 credits • MONS 468 01A / SPIR 468 01A Tuesdays 8:00–11:10 AM
Theology and Spirituality of Vocation
The traditions of eastern Christianity were formative of the western church, and have continued to develop their distinctive identities rooted in ancient Christian cultures. This course will consider the variety and history of eastern Christian traditions, and then examine distinctive characteristics of eastern Christian faith and practice, especially liturgical spirituality, the importance of image and sacred space, the use of the body in prayer, and an emphasis on monasticism as the fundamental form of spiritual life for both vowed monastics and lay people.
3 credits • SPIR 468 03A Tuesdays 1:15–4:25 PM
Columba Stewart, OSB
Kathleen Cahalan
This course examines theologies of vocation and practices of discernment from both Catholic and Protestant traditions. The course examines vocation in relationship to who I am, how I live (marriage, single or religious life), and what I do (work and service). Students will explore God’s callings across the lifespan, in relationship to work and profession, and in terms of gifts and social context.
Fundamental Moral Theology
New Testament Greek I
Catholic Epistles, Hebrews, and the Book of Revelation Charles Bobertz
3 credits • SSNT 468 01A Thursdays 1:15–4:25 PM
This course will survey the historical context as well as the major theological and literary themes of the Catholic Letters, the Epistle to the Hebrews and Revelation. Special attention will be given to the dynamic history of interpretation associated with these New Testament writings.
Psalms
Dale Launderville , OSB
3 credits • SSOT 416 01A Thursday 6:00–9:15 PM
Kathy Lilla Cox
Jason Schlude
3 credits • MORL 421 01A Mondays 1:15–4:25 PM
3 credits • SSNT 401 01A Mondays / Wednesdays / Fridays 10:20–11:15 AM
This course covers the foundations of the Christian moral life and of Christian moral decision making. The fundamental themes to be covered include, but are not limited to: freedom; conscience formation and moral agency; moral normativity; what constitutes moral reasoning; the use of scripture, tradition, and natural law in moral decisions; the interplay between sin and grace; virtue ethics; and the ecclesial aspect of moral decisions.
The instruction emphasizes reading comprehension of New Testament Greek with the aid of a dictionary. It includes the study of grammar with an eye toward its practical application.
The Psalms have formed the backbone of Jewish and Christian prayer for three thousand years. In addition to the study of selected psalms, topics include: the formation of the Psalter, various translations, the spirituality of the psalms, and the use of psalms in Christian prayer, especially the Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours.
Johannine Tradition
Introduction to Christian Tradition
3 credits • SSNT 424 01A Tuesdays / Thursdays 9:45–11:10 AM
3 credits • THY 402 01A Mondays / Wednesdays 8:00–9:45 AM
Introduction to Pastoral Ministry Dawn Carrillo
3 credits • PTHM 405 01A Thursdays 8:00–11:10 AM
This course introduces students to the theology of ministry, including historical and contemporary
Michael Patella, OSB
Dale Launderville, OSB
The Gospels and Letters of John have been very influential in the shaping of Christian theology. A close reading of the texts will provide an examination of the Johannine corpus within its theological, social and historical context.
This course is an introductory survey of theology, studying representative texts from the pre-Christian era to the Reformation (100 B.C. to 1650). Figures and issues will be situated within the philosophical and theological currents of their time.
Music Courses Applied Organ Kim Kasling
1 credit • LMUS 407 01A Schedule TBD by student and instructor
Students will develop technical skills and knowledge of performance practices at the graduate level, including the ability to play a large variety of repertoire fluently and with understanding. Major works of significant periods and schools of organ literature will be studied and performed. Secondary organ students will develop sufficient techniques and familiarity with the instrument to play knowledgeably and/or coach others in parish settings.
Applied Voice
Carolyn Finley, Patricia Kent
1 credit • LMUS 408 01A / 02A Schedule TBD by student and instructor
Fundamentals of singing and vocal pedagogy (breathing, efficient use of voice, diction, etc.) and addresses differing musical styles and the need to interpret the music based on the performance practices of given periods in music history. Voice majors will study and perform significant bodies of solo repertoire. Majors and secondary voice students will emphasize technique and pedagogical skills appropriate to roles as choral directors.
Applied Composition Brian Campbell
1 credit • LMUS 409 01 Schedule TBD by student and instructor
Individualized coaching in advanced composition of sacred music and music appropriate for liturgical performance. Work in various forms and styles is possible, depending on the needs and interests of individual students. Students should normally have a bachelor’s degree in music or equivalent training and have significant experience in music composition. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor and the liturgical music program director.
Service Playing Kim Kasling
1 credit • LMUS 433 01A Schedule TBD by students and instructor
This course seeks to develop the qualified church organist as leader and enabler of the assembly’s singing. The course will require high proficiency levels of assembly leadership and accompanimental skills (hymns, masses, psalm forms) as well as vocal and choral accompaniment. Students will also develop abilities in sight-reading, modulation, transposing, and extemporization.
Service Leadership Patricia Kent
1 credit • LMUS 435 01A Schedule TBD by students and instructor
This course examines the historic role of the cantor in Jewish and Christian liturgy. Students will learn how to teach antiphonal music to the assembly, appropriate directing skills, the cantor’s ritual moments, and cantorial music resources. Students will study the role of congregational song leader as
distinguished from that of cantor and choir director. Students will develop good song leading style, i.e., teaching new music to a congregation, learning appropriate directing techniques for congregational leadership. Developing vocal and musical styles for both ministries will be emphasized.
Advanced Choral Conducting Axel Theimer
3 credits • LMUS 431 01A Schedule TBA
Students will review basic conducting techniques and will apply advanced vocal and conducting techniques through studies of standard choral literature representing various styles and forms. Special attention will be given to application of vocal techniques in the choral setting, gestures, and their effects on singing. The course will include score preparation, analysis of major choral works, and special rehearsal techniques.
Gregorian Chant Schola Anthony Ruff, OSB
1 credit • LMUS 468 01A Tuesdays / Thursdays 11:15 AM–12:30 PM
Small ensemble singing Gregorian chant according to informed scholarship and performs regularly at liturgies on campus. Commitment occasional weekday and weekend liturgies outside of class meeting time required.
Why study theology?
Theology impacts so many other areas of life • It will change the way I look at the world around me • To integrate knowledge with ministry • It is a subject greater than which none other can be conceived • It is fascinating • To be part of a lifelong community of learners • Brings joy, hope, challenge • To become a qualified leader in society • Theology is life giving, life breathing • To gain a deeper understanding of questions pertaining to self, God, and history • It opens my mind to possibilities about life, death and the meaning of being part of the universe • It deepens my appreciation of the meaning of God’s mystery • Desire • Love is more important than money • To learn to teach theology in order to make it more accessible to others • To participate in the New Evangelization • Because we have to understand our place in history so we can be at peace with our journey and its limitations • To prepare to be of service to the world • Working for God provides job security • To live a coherent faith • To ground a life dedicated to service • To seek the truth • To be intellectually qualified in spreading the news of the Gospel to others • To increase intellectual content of belief • To obtain wisdom • To give additional perspective to philosophical inquiry • To better understand doctrine • To acquire deep understanding of liturgy and its symbolic, ritual meaning • To become a scholar • To live a life of purpose • To understand my relationship to God • To know myself better • For deeper understanding of God and my role on this earth • God made each of us intentionally and it seems right to learn as much as possible about our Creator • Theology feeds my mind and soul • To quench the thirst for living water • To learn to pray better • To explore life’s deepest questions: who is God and who are we? • To become all that I am created to be • To bring Christian virtue and morality to our culture • The quest for understanding the meaning of human life and the relationship of humankind to God • To confront life fully • To change the world, by example, in leadership by informed faith • Life is short and I want to pay attention • Because God only knows what the future brings
Who We Are Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary is the graduate school of Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota. We are a theological graduate school for men and women. We are also a Catholic seminary. The establishment of the Benedictine Institute of Sacred Theology in 1958 by Saint Benedict’s Monastery led to a cooperative arrangement whereby Saint John’s Seminary became the first Roman Catholic theologate to offer graduate degrees to women. From this evolved a dynamic model of education for collaborative ministry at Saint John’s. The seminary formation program was brought together with the academic program to form what is now known as the School of Theology and Seminary. • Our campus is 2,400 acres of forest land with five lakes and hiking trails; an idyllic, natural setting for study, prayer, and spiritual growth. • Our student body is composed of about 130 students, full- and part-time, degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking. • We are a community of lifelong learners that offers graduate level coursework for the completion of graduate certificates and master’s degree programs or for personal enrichment and professional development.
What We Do Master’s Degree Programs Master of Arts in Theology (42 credits) Master of Arts in Liturgical Music (36 credits) Master of Arts in Liturgical Studies (36 credits) Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry (48 credits) Master of Divinity (78 credits) Master of Theology (ThM, pre-doctoral) (24 credits)
Graduate Certificate Programs Spiritual Direction (22 credits) Liturgy (18 credits) Church History (18 credits) Scripture (18 credits) Spirituality (18 credits) Monastic Studies (18 credits) Systematic Theology (18 credits)
collegevilleMN.com gradschool@csbsju.edu 320-363-2622