Fall 2020 Course Schedule
Search by Focus Area
DOCTRINE | SCRIPTURE |LANGUAGES | PASTORAL THEOLOGY
HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY | MORAL THEOLOGY | SPIRITUALITY
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMS | FIELD EDUCATION | LITURGY | LITURGICAL MUSIC
ONLINE COURSES
FALL 2020:
All face-to-face courses are available for on-line/Synchronous participation.
Please note your preference on the Registration Form Notes.
DOCTRINE
Christology
Bill Cahoy | DOCT 406 | 3 credits
6:00-9:15 pm (Tuesday) Synchronous Course
Understandings of the person, presence and mission of Christ in scripture, in doctrine and dogma, and in contemporary theology.
Christian Anthropology
Kristin Colberg | DOCT 411 | 3 credits
8:00-11:10 AM (Thursday) Synchronous Course
This course undertakes a Christian exploration to the question: What does it mean to be human? As a theological discipline, Christian theological anthropology draws from a wide range of sources. These sources include the doctrine of creation, the doctrine of sin and grace, the doctrine of the Trinity, Christology, ecclesiology, and eschatology. This course examines these sources and underscores the historical evolution of Christian theological anthropology.
Diversity in the Christian Community
Anna Mercedes | DOCT 468 01A | 3 credits
BLOCK COURSE: August 31-September 24 -- 1:00-4:00 PM
This course explores difference as a dynamic component of community, and studies the contextual nature of Christian theology. Analysis of the ways in which racism and classism are experienced, perpetuated, and sometimes dismantled in Christian communities. Theological texts, Scripture and contemporary Catholic Social Teaching, and a service learning component in local organizations. [Transportation can be provided as needed.]
SCRIPTURE
Johannine Tradition
Michael Patella, OSB | SSNT 424 | 3 credits
8:00-11:10 AM (Wednesday) Synchronous Course
Extensive investigation of the Johannine corpus within its theological, social and historical context.
New Testament Greek I
Jason Schlude | SSNT 401 | 3 credits
BLOCK COURSE: Novermber 23-December 18 -- 8:00-11:30 AM
The instruction emphasizes reading Comprehension of New Testament Greek, with the aid of a dictionary. It includes the study of grammar with an eye towards its practical application. Biblical resources will be utilized for reading proficiency preparation. Graded A-F or pass/fail.
Prophets
Dale Launderville | SSOT 412 | 3 credits
8:00-11:10 AM (Tuesday) Synchronous Course
Survey of the writings of the prophets in the Old Testament with special attention given to the historical contexts of the biblical prophets and the language, genres, images, and theological content of various prophetic texts. Further consideration of the relevance of the prophetic message in contemporary church and society.
PASTORAL THEOLOGY
Introduction to Ecclesial Law
Amy Tadlock | PTHM 420 | 3 credits
12:30-5:00 PM (Friday) Synchronous Course
September 11, September 25; October 9; October 23, November 6, November 13
Students study the theology, history and general principles of Church law. Students will build capacity to effectively analyze and solve canonical cases.
Sacramental Catechesis
Barbara Sutton | PTHM 457 | 3 credits
9:00 AM-3:00 PM (Saturday) Synchronous Course
September 19, October 17, November 14, December 12
This course addresses catechetical methods for initiation into the sacramental life of the church and discipleship, including the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, Eucharist, reconciliation, and marriage. Issues of liturgical catechesis, readiness of candidates, preparation of the community and families will be incorporated.
Contemporary Spiritual Practice
Kathleen Cahalan | PTHM 416 / SPIR 416 | 3 credits
Asynchronous Course
Why is spiritual practice on the rise? What do contemplation and social justice have to do with each other? Can people from different religions borrow practices from others? Students in this course will examine spiritual practices and ways of thinking about them that have become prominent in recent decades. These movements include the retrieval and redefinition of ancient
practices (e.g., lectio divina, centering prayer, and the Jesus Prayer); the intersection of spiritual practice and social issues (e.g., the influence of other religions; the environment; and social justice); and contemporary theological emphases (e.g., work, the body, art, science, and gender). Students will explore recent scholarship on the rise of spiritual practice, the theological foundations as well as the actions and disciplines that comprise these approaches. Cross listed with SPIR 416 and PTHM 416.
HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY
History of Christianity I
Charles Bobertz | HCHR 402 | 3 credits
1:15-2:45 PM (Tuesday and Thursday) Synchronous Course
This course is an introductory survey of theology, studying representative texts from the pre-Christian era to the Reformation (100 BCE to 1650). Students will examine figures and issues selected from various historical periods. Offered Synchronous for remote student participation, as well as on campus.
Spiritual Biography, Spiritual Journey
Shawn Colberg | HCHR 429 | 3 credits
8:00-11:10 AM (Monday) Synchronous Course
Critical and reflective reading of works classified as "spiritual autobiography" in the Christian theological and spiritual tradition. The course introduces students to this genre and an understanding of each work in its historical and theological context. Particular attention of life as a "journey" with emphasis on those experiences which advance the person in his or her relationship with God. Themes: grace, sacramental action, self-examination, prayer, good works --inform progress in the life stories. Cross listed HCHR 429 and SPIR 429.
MORAL THEOLOGY
Fundamental Moral Theology
Nickolas Becker, OSB | MORL 421 | 3 credits
Weekend course: 6:30-8:45 PM (Friday) and 8:00-11:15 AM (Saturday) Synchronous Course
September 11-12, October 9-10, November 6-7 December 4-5
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.
SPIRITUALITY and MONASTIC STUDIES
Discernment in Prayer
Becky Van Ness | SPIR 437 | 0 credits or 1 credit
Asynchronous Course
An exploration of how our personal image of God evolves as we discern God's ways of being present to us in prayer and in life. By both studying and practicing discernment of spirits we can become sensitive to inner movements, understanding where they come from and where they lead us. The course includes an introduction to the practice of lectio divina applied to our lived experience. Grading is S/U only.
Required: Synchronous class meeting for all students after course modules are done: Either Wednesday November, 18 7:00-9:00 PM or Thursday, November 19 7:00-9:00 PM
Spiritual Biography, Spiritual Journey
Shawn Colberg| SPIR 429 / HCHR 429 | 3 credits
8:00-11:10 AM (Monday) Synchronous Course
Critical and reflective reading of works classified as "spiritual autobiography" in the Christian theological and spiritual tradition. The course introduces students to this genre and an understanding of each work in its historical and theological context. Particular attention of life as a "journey" with emphasis on those experiences which advance the person in his or her relationship with God. Themes: grace, sacramental action, self-examination, prayer, good works --inform progress in the life stories. Cross listed HCHR 429 and SPIR 429.
Rule of Benedict
Carmel Posa OSB | MONS 410 | 3 credits
Synchronous class meetings Thursdays 6:00-800 PM
The Rule of Benedict and its sources; exegesis of the text; issues of interpretation. The purpose of this course is to help present-day readers and interpreters of the Rule of Benedict (RB) to come to an appreciation of its wisdom in the context of 21st-century in order to shape their own Christian lives, their understanding of leadership, and their involvement in pastoral ministry. Rowan Williams, the former Arch Bishop of Canterbury has remarked that the Rule of Saint Benedict, "touched countless lives by the mere fact that is has shaped personalities who have in turn shaped their societies." The purpose of this course is to help present-day readers and interpreters of the Rule of Benedict (RB) to come to an appreciation of its wisdom in the context of 21st-century in order to shape their own Christian lives, their understanding of leadership, and their involvement in pastoral ministry.
Contemporary Spiritual Practice
Kathleen Cahalan | PTHM 416 / SPIR 416 | 3 credits
Asynchronous Course
Why is spiritual practice on the rise? What do contemplation and social justice have to do with each other? Can people from different religions borrow practices from others? Students in this course will examine spiritual practices and ways of thinking about them that have become prominent in recent decades. These movements include the retrieval and redefinition of ancient
practices (e.g., lectio divina, centering prayer, and the Jesus Prayer); the intersection of spiritual practice and social issues (e.g., the influence of other religions; the environment; and social justice); and contemporary theological emphases (e.g., work, the body, art, science, and gender). Students will explore recent scholarship on the rise of spiritual practice, the theological foundations as well as the actions and disciplines that comprise these approaches. Cross listed with SPIR 416 and PTHM 416.
LITURGY
The Word of God and the Liturgical Year
Ben Durheim | LTGY 4021 | 3 credits
1:15-4:25 PM (Wednesday) Synchronous Course
The interaction of time-keeping and faith in Christianity. Theology of Sunday, Easter and its seasons, Christmas-Epiphany and their seasons, with study of the prayers for the seasons and feasts in a variety of liturgical books and calendars today. Liturgical time and the rhythms of modern life.
The Rites of the Church
Johan Van Parys | LTGY 416 | 3 credits
2:00-4:30 PM (Mondays) August 31- November 23 Synchronous Course
Introductory study of the nature of ritual, and the place of sacraments and rituals in the life journey of the Christian. Treatment of the rites of vocation (marriage, religious profession and holy orders), healing (reconciliation, anointing of the sick), and burial of the dead.
Liturgical Music Seminar
Anthony Ruff, OSB | LTGY 501 | 1 credit
8:30-10:00 AM (Thursday) Synchronous Course
Classroom study integrated with participation in Chapel Choir (online Fall 2020), which is taken for 0-1 credits.
Cross listed with LMUS 501.
FIELD EDUCATION
Clinical Pastoral Education
Barbara Sutton | PTHM 412 | 3 credits
Students participate in a basic unit of an accredited Clinical Pastoral Education program.
Practicum/Theological Reflection
Barbara Sutton | PTHM 459 01A- 09A | 1-6 credits
Students work with an organization, project, or parish in the area of their ministerial interest. The supervised experience requires students to integrate theological competence with pastoral practice in developing vocational identity as a public minister, exploring issues of leadership, power and authority; and gaining facility in articulating the Christian faith and in fostering the development of faith with others. Students will reflect on the practice of ministry in theological reflection groups.
- Theological Reflection dates TBA
- Fridays, 9:00 AM-12:00 Noon
- + Three sessions Theological Reflection -- Schedule TBA
FOCUS AREAS:
- 01A General Parish
- 02A Religious Education
- 03A Social Ministry
- 04A Liturgy
- 05A Homiletics
- 06A Pastoral Care
- 07A Campus Ministry and Young Adult Ministry
- 09A Ministry on the Margins
Practicum / Theological Reflection: Spiritual Direction Practicum
Becky Van Ness | PTHM 459 08A |
6:00-8:00 PM (Monday) August 31, October 12, November 9, December 7
MAM Ministry Portfolio
Barbara Sutton | PTHM 598 | 0 credit--registration required
Students preparing for ministerial leadership through the MAM degree are required to document and self-assess their readiness for ministry by developing a Ministry Learning Portfolio and presenting it first to a peer group, and second to faculty review group. The Ministry Learning Portfolios are developed over the duration of one’s degree preparation. MAM degree students are required to present their Ministry Learning Portfolio in their last semester. Offered for S/U grading only.
MDIV Ministry Portfolio
Barbara Sutton | PTHM 599| 0 credit--registration required
Students preparing for ministerial leadership through the MDIV degree are required to document and self-assess their readiness for ministry by developing a Ministry Learning Portfolio and presenting it first to a peer group, and second to faculty review group. The Ministry Learning Portfolios are developed over the duration of one’s degree preparation. MDIV LEM students present mid-degree (39-42 credits), MDIV seminarians (54-60 credits). Offered for S/U grading only.
MDIV Seminary Spiritual Formation
Michael Patella, OSB | SPIR 468 | 3 credits
Times TBA
THM THESIS
Thesis
Charles Bobertz | 12973 THY 580 | 6 credits
TBA--Director will arrange meeting with student.
The Thesis is the capstone project for the ThM degree.
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMS
Reading for Comprehensive Exams
TBA | THY 598 | 3 credits
Comprehensive Exams
TBA | THY 599 | 0 credit--registration only
LITURGICAL MUSIC
Gregorian Chant
Anthony Ruff, OSB | LMUS 468 | 1 credit
Asynchronous Course
September 28-November 20, 2020
Comprehensive introduction to Gregorian Chant, with practical emphasis on singing it in the liturgy. Treatment of historical development, Latin pronunciation, notation, modality, rhythmic interpretation, repertoire and liturgical use, English adaptations, and conducting. Some knowledge of the basics of music theory is expected.
Format: Asynchronous, done at the student’s own pace over the course of each week. Instructional videos each week for a total of c. 1 to 1½ hours viewing weekly, plus c. 3-5 hours weekly of individual study, reading, exercises, and submissions.
Participants should have the capability of submitting short videos of their singing (and optionally, conducting), which are typically made with laptop, tablet, or cell phone.
Required text: Canticum novum, Anthony Ruff, OSB, (GIA, 2012).
Applied Piano
Robert Koopmann, OSB | LMUS 406 | 1 credit
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. Secondary organ students will develop sufficient techniques and familiarity with the instrument to play knowledgeably and/or coach others in parish settings. Open to Liturgical Music students.
Applied Organ
Kim Kasling | LMUS 407 | 1 credit
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 | LMUS 408 | 1 credit
Fundamentals of singing and vocal pedagogy (breathing, efficient use of voice, diction, etc.) addressing differing musical styles and their interpretation based on the performance practices of given periods in music history. Study and performance of significant bodies of solo repertoire. Technique and pedagogical skills appropriate to choral directors, section leaders, and coaches for cantors and song leaders.
Applied Composition
Brian Campbell | LMUS 409 | 1 credit
Individualized coaching in advanced composition of sacred music and music appropriate for liturgical use. Work in various forms and styles, depending on the needs and interests of individual students. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor and the liturgical music program director.
Service Playing
Kim Kasling | LMUS 433 | 1 credit
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. Open to Liturgical Music Students.
Chapel Choir
Anthony Ruff, OSB and Dr. Caleb Wenzel | LMUS 412 | 0 credits or 1 credit
10:15 -11:15 AM (Thursday) (Meeting on-line)
A liturgical choir open to all graduate students which sings regularly for SOT worship. Choral music in a wide variety of styles including contemporary and world music. Offered every semester. Fall 2020: offered entirely online. May be taken for 0 or 1 credit.
Liturgical Music Seminar
Anthony Ruff, OSB | LMUS 501 | 2 credits
8:30-10:00 am (Thursday) Synchronous Course
Classroom study integrated with participation in Chapel Choir (online Fall 2020), which is taken for 0 credits.
Cross listed with LTGY 501.
Conducting Techniques I
Axel Theimer | LMUS 430 | 1 credit
1:00-2:30 PM (Thursday)
Individualized small-group lessons on the basics of conducting techniques such as beat patterns, cueing, expression and dynamics, and score preparation.
LANGUAGES
Reading Ecclesial Latin
Scott Richardson | LANG 401 | 3 credits
BLOCK COURSE: October 26-November 19 -- 8:00-11:30 AM
An overview of the grammatical structure of the language and practice in reading short works. The course is graded pass/fail.
Reading German l
Charles Bobertz | LANG 405 | 3 credits
TBA--Instructor will arrange meetings with students.
An overview of the grammatical structure of the language and practice in reading short works. The course is graded pass/fail.
Biblical Hebrew
David Calbro | SSOT 470 | 3 credits
TBA--Instructor will arrange meetings with students.
An overview of the grammatical structure of the language and practice in reading short works. The course is graded pass/fail.
ONLINE COURSES
Synchronous-- Offered for remote participation– as well as on campus (Distance students attend in real time, participating via video camera)
FALL 2020:
All face-to-face courses are available for on-line/Synchronous participation.
Please note your preference on the Registration Form Notes.
Asynchronous-- no class meetings
Discernment in Prayer
Becky Van Ness | SPIR 437 | 0 credits or 1 credit
Asynchronous Course
An exploration of how our personal image of God evolves as we discern God's ways of being present to us in prayer and in life. By both studying and practicing discernment of spirits we can become sensitive to inner movements, understanding where they come from and where they lead us. The course includes an introduction to the practice of lectio divina applied to our lived experience. Grading is S/U only.
Required: Synchronous class meeting for all students after course modules are done: Either Wednesday November, 18 7:00-9:00 PM or Thursday, November 19 7:00-9:00 PM
Contemporary Spiritual Practice
Kathleen Cahalan | PTHM 416 / SPIR 416 | 3 credits
Aynchronous WEB course
Why is spiritual practice on the rise? What do contemplation and social justice have to do with each other? Can people from different religions borrow practices from others? Students in this course will examine spiritual practices and ways of thinking about them that have become prominent in recent decades. These movements include the retrieval and redefinition of ancient
practices (e.g., lectio divina, centering prayer, and the Jesus Prayer); the intersection of spiritual practice and social issues (e.g., the influence of other religions; the environment; and social justice); and contemporary theological emphases (e.g., work, the body, art, science, and gender). Students will explore recent scholarship on the rise of spiritual practice, the theological foundations as well as the actions and disciplines that comprise these approaches. Cross listed with SPIR 416 and PTHM 416.
Gregorian Chant
Anthony Ruff, OSB | LMUS 468 | 1 credit
Asynchronous Course
September 28-November 20, 2020
Comprehensive introduction to Gregorian Chant, with practical emphasis on singing it in the liturgy. Treatment of historical development, Latin pronunciation, notation, modality, rhythmic interpretation, repertoire and liturgical use, English adaptations, and conducting. Some knowledge of the basics of music theory is expected.
Format: Asynchronous, done at the student’s own pace over the course of each week. Instructional videos each week for a total of c. 1 to 1½ hours viewing weekly, plus c. 3-5 hours weekly of individual study, reading, exercises, and submissions.
Participants should have the capability of submitting short videos of their singing (and optionally, conducting), which are typically made with laptop, tablet, or cell phone.
Required text: Canticum novum, Anthony Ruff, OSB, (GIA, 2012).