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 Last updated April 30, 2003

Fall 2002
Pre-registration starts May 1, 2001.  Registration deadline for Bangor returning students is August 14, 2002.  Registration for some classes is limited. Appointments for registration are to be made with your advisor.

Courses being taught by adjunct faculty must register the equivalent of seven full credit students. Liberal Studies students who wish to take courses that are not cross-listed must have permission of the instructor.

The Seminary Reserves the right to make changes without prior notice to the information contained in the publication, including the alteration of various fees, schedules and the revision or cancellation of particular courses.

Core Liberal Studies (Undergraduate level)

ENG1101 Introduction to Composition 
Raikes, Kim Ridenour

The goal of this course is for students to become competent and confident writers of college level essays. Skills are developed through regular practice on stating a thesis, gathering and organizing supporting evidence, and writing clear, concise, substantive essays. Non-fiction models are studied. Attention is given to English grammar, punctuation, and word usage. Proficiency examinations are given. Word processing skills are essential.

Scheduled Wednesdays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

HIST1101 Modern American Experience 
Grady, Marie

An examination of the development of American society and culture since the Civil War. Special emphasis is placed on changing understandings of the American environment.

Scheduled Thursdays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

PHIL1101 Introduction to Philosophy 
Yerkes, James

This course is an introduction to philosophy, its ideas and methodologies. It is designed to help students gain an overview of the main traditions of Western thought by looking at the ways different thinkers and/or schools of thought have addressed some of the questions of greatest importance to humankind, including the following: What is real? How can we know truth? How ought we to live our lives? What is the basis for our political life? What is soul? Can we prove that God exists? What is religion? What is art?

Scheduled Tuesdays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

L.S. Biblical Studies (Undergraduate level)

ENGBIB1101 The Old Testament 
Haddix, James L

A basic examination and reading of the Old Testament with a special emphasis on learning the basic literary forms used in the text.

Scheduled Wednesdays 8:00-10:50 a.m. 3 credits

L.S. Language Studies (Undergraduate level)

BL1501 Introduction to Biblical Hebrew I 
Kowalski, Vesta

These courses are designed for students who have not studied Hebrew previously. The courses emphasize the importance of Hebrew grammar and the development of a working vocabulary. By the end of the year’s study, students should be able to read and exegete passages from the various authors of the Hebrew Scriptures. The courses stress the understanding of Hebrew thought patterns and processes. (Both semesters must be taken for credit toward the Liberal Studies program, Master of Divinity or Master of Arts degrees. Credit for the first semester will not be given until the second semester is completed.

Scheduled Tuesdays 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. and Thursdays 4:00-5:30 p.m. 3 credits

L.S. Electives (Undergraduate level)

CLN1710 Current Issues in Pastoral Care 
Gustafson, Robert W

The course investigates contemporary issues in church and society, specifically the personal, familial, social and economic impact of such issues on the ministry of pastoral care.

Scheduled Tuesdays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

CMU425 BTS Choir/Topics in Sacred Music 
Sherwin, Ronald G.

The class will explore common issues encountered in church music programs and begin to develop musical skills that will be useful in ministry. Elements of a church music program, introducing hymns, resources for church musicians, and encouraging congregational singing will be some areas discussed. This semester's focus will be on hymnology. 
Previous musical experience is not required. Arrangements will be made for those students wishing to take the class, but who are unable to sing during Wednesday worship.

Scheduled Tuesdays 4:00-5:30 pm.; Wednesday Chapel 11:00-12:00 pm 1 credit

Biblical Studies (Graduate level)

BS1501 Biblical Narrative: From Genesis to Revelation 
Johnston, Ann

An overview of the biblical witness. This course examines the content and historical context of scripture, while at the same time attending to the development of expertise in exegesis. Attention is also paid to the contemporary implications of reading these texts as scripture. Strongly recommended for students in their first or second semester of study, this course is required for all M.Div. students.

Scheduled Mondays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

Old Testament Studies (Graduate level)

OT1502 The Prophets 
Johnston, Ann

A study of the prophetic tradition in ancient Israel from its origins through the period of formative Judaism. The goals include an understanding of prophecy in its ancient Near East setting as well as its formative influence on Judaism and early Christianity. Recommended to students without background in Old Testament.

Scheduled Tuesdays 9:00-11:50 a.m. 3 credits

OT1502p The Prophets 
Johnston, Ann

PORTLAND. A study of the prophetic tradition in ancient Israel from its origins through the period of formative Judaism.  The goals include an understanding of prophecy in its ancient Near East setting as well as its formative influence on Judaism and early Christianity. Recommended to students without background in Old Testament.

Scheduled Thursdays 3:00-6:00 p.m. 3 credits

New Testament Studies (Graduate level)

NT1504p Romans 
Michaels, J. Ramsey

PORTLAND. An exegesis of the Book of Romans with particular attention to its value for contemporary theology.

Scheduled Tuesdays 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. 3 credits

NT1716 The Corinthian Correspondence 
Trobisch, David

This course discusses the text as one part of a dialogue between Paul and the Corinthian Christians. From this perspective students are introduced to the historical background of some of the most influential theological statements in the New Testament.  For more info please go to: www.bts.edu/trobisch

Scheduled Mondays 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. 3 credits

NT/WR1729p Who Am I? In Search of a New Christian and Jewish Identity 
Trobisch, David

PORTLAND. Beginning with the history of the Jewish people in antiquity the course will follow the historical development that led to the separation of the Jewish and the Christian movement and the formation of the Hebrew Jewish Bible and the Greek Christian Bible during the first and second century. For more info please go to: www.bts.edu/trobisch

Students are expected to prepare a brief oral presentation, write a research paper, and participate in lively discussions. This class will meet at the University of Southern Maine Portland campus.

Scheduled Wednesdays 7:00-9:30 p.m. 3 credits

Biblical Languages (Graduate level)

BL1501 Introduction to Biblical Hebrew I 
Kowalski, Vesta

These courses are designed for students who have not studied Hebrew previously. The courses emphasize the importance of Hebrew grammar and the development of a working vocabulary. By the end of the year’s study, students should be able to read and exegete passages from the various authors of the Hebrew Scriptures. The courses stress the understanding of Hebrew thought patterns and processes. (Both semesters must be taken for credit toward the Liberal Studies program, Master of Divinity or Master of Arts degrees. Credit for the first semester will not be given until the second semester is completed.

Scheduled Tuesdays 2:30-4:00 p.m. and Thursdays 4:00-5:30 p.m. 3 credits

Church History (Graduate level)

CH1501 The Christian Movement 
Miller, Glenn T

An overview of the development of diverse Christian movements from the early church to the Reformation. This course emphasizes the diversity within this development as well as the evolution of Christian institutions. The major assignment for the semester revolves around learning to read Christian literature from an earlier period. Among the choices offered for this assignment are selections from Augustine's Confession, Hildegaard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, and Martin Luther. Students with a background in music or art may do portions of the interpretative assignment on a "work" (such as a chant collection, a medieval "score," an altar piece, or other artifact). Required for all Master of Divinity students.

Scheduled Tuesdays 6:00-9:00 p.m. 3 credits

CH1501p The Christian Movement 
Miller, Glenn T

PORTLAND. An overview of the development of diverse Christian movements from the early church to the Reformation. This course emphasizes the diversity within this development as well as the evolution of Christian institutions. The major assignment for the semester revolves around learning to read Christian literature from an earlier period. Among the choices offered for this assignment are selections from Augustine's Confession, Hildegaard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, and Martin Luther. Students with a background in music or art may do portions of the interpretative assignment on a "work" (such as a chant collection, a medieval "score," an altar piece, or other artifact). Required for all Master of Divinity.

Scheduled Thursdays 6:00-9:00 p.m. 3 credits

Systematic Theology (Graduate level)

ST1501 Introduction to Christian Doctrine 
Sherman, Robert J

A systematic and historical survey of key doctrines and classic figures in Christian theology. It introduces students to the basics of content and method, grounding them in the essential affirmations of the Christian faith and familiarizing them with various historical issues, and debates. It will also encourage dealing with theological texts and concerns critically and constructively, to foster skill in reaching mature theological conclusions. Recommended to students with little background in systematic theology.

Scheduled Wednesdays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

ST1730 Credo: Summary of Christian Doctrine 
Sherman, Robert J

A seminar course for students who are required to organize and express in their own words what they believe regarding the basic teachings of the Christian faith. This class is intended primarily for seniors preparing the theological segment of their ordination papers, but may be of interest to other upper-level students seeking a cumulative, integrative theology course.

Scheduled Thursdays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

World Religions (Graduate level)

WR1613p Islam 
Gunn, Janet Varner

PORTLAND. A course about Islam in practice and how the second largest of world religions is interpreted and deployed in the push and pull of daily lives in post-1967 Middle East and present-day Portland. As depicted in poetry, memoir, and film, Islam is examined as a "sense of practical readiness" for life in the day-by-day round. 

Quaranic passages, Karen Armstrong's monograph Islam, and testimonies from Portland's Muslim community will be used. Additionally, the class will follow the ongoing trial of the "American Taliban" John Walker Lindh for current understandings of "terrorism" and "jihad."

Scheduled Tuesdays 6:00-9:00 p.m. 3 credits

WR/NT1729p Who Am I? In Search of a New Christian and Jewish Identity 
Trobisch, David

PORTLAND. Beginning with the history of the Jewish people in antiquity the course will follow the historical development that led to the separation of the Jewish and the Christian movement and the formation of the Hebrew Jewish Bible and the Greek Christian Bible during the first and second century.  For more info please go to: www.bts.edu/trobisch

Students are expected to prepare a brief oral presentation, write a research paper, and participate in lively discussions. This class will meet at the University of Southern Maine Portland campus.

Scheduled Wednesdays 7:00-9:30 p.m. 3 credits

Preaching, Worship and Spirituality (Graduate level)

PWS1601 Introduction to Christian Worship 
Guthrie, Clifton F

An exploration of the history and theology of Christian worship, including the shape of the liturgical calendar, the sacraments, and music in the congregation. The course pays close attention to forces that are reshaping worship in our time, such as issues of culture, gender, technology, and consumerism. Participants develop their own insights into the theology of worship through the study of their own denominational worship traditions and gain confidence in liturgical leadership. Required for all Master of Divinity students. Course Prerequisites: At least one course in theology or church history or permission of instructor.

Scheduled Wednesdays 8:00-10:50 a.m. 3 credits

Congregational Life & Nurture (Graduate level)

CLN1710 Current Issues in Pastoral Care 
Gustafson, Robert W

The course investigates contemporary issues in church and society, specifically the personal, familial, social and economic impact of such issues on the ministry of pastoral care.

Scheduled Tuesdays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

CLN1721 Theological and Psychological Understandings of Love 
Sherman, Carol J

Theological foundations for this course rest on C.S. Lewis' The Four Loves, Roberta Bondi's To Love as God Loves, and portions of Anders Nygren's Agape and Eros. Reinhold Niebuhr's theology and Erik Erikson's ego psychology provide a bridge to the psychological perspectives of Harry Stack Sullivan (interpersonal psychology), Margaret Mahler (object relations theory), Heinz Kohut (self-psychology), and Erich Fromm's The Art of Loving.

Scheduled Wednesdays 1:00-3:50 p.m. 3 credits

CLN1733 Pilgrimage and Home 
Planting, C. Scott

The title for this course comes from an article by Sharon Daloz Parks written in 1989. In this essay, Parks suggests that the metaphors of pilgrimage and home, which belong together, have been "sheared away" from one another. This course will explore these two metaphors as it relates to rural communities and small churches and the pastors that serve them.

Scheduled Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 p.m. 3 credits

Practical Theology (Graduate level)

PT1725 Evangelism 
Miller, Glenn T

An examination of the ways in which Christianity is communicated in the modern world.  The course will emphasize the changing place of Christian faith in modern American society and will study the psychology of religious commitment.  The capstone of the course will be an examination of the biblical and theological underpinnings of a contemporary understanding of Christian witness. 

Scheduled Mondays 9:00-11:50 a.m. 3 credits

PT1727 The Work of the Parish Minister 
Imes, William

A survey of the many different tasks faced by contemporary ministers, including, worship, education, fellowship, social advocacy and service, stewardship, evangelism, counseling, pastoral care, and administration. Special attention will be given to work of ministry in churches with only one minister and the work of ministry on church fields where one minister serves several congregations. Problems of time-management and proper priorities will be discussed. The Biblical and theological understandings of the Church and its appointed leaders will be examined in the light of the minister's everyday tasks.

Scheduled Wednesday 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. 3 credits

Preaching and Worship (Graduate level)

PWS1711 Creation Spirituality 
Guthrie, Clifton F

This class is an introduction to creation-centered spiritualities, particularly as expressed by contemporary Christian thinkers. Participants will discuss understandings of creation present in scripture, in some key voices from Christian tradition such as Julien and Aquinas, and in current perspectives represented by writers like Matthew Fox, Leonardo Boff, Sally McFague, Rosemary Ruether, and Brian Swimme. The base of the discussions will be broadened through the use of film and other media.

Scheduled Thursdays 6:00-9:00 p.m. 3 credits

PWS1711p Creation Spirituality 
Guthrie, Clifton F

This class is an introduction to creation-centered spiritualities, particularly as expressed by contemporary Christian thinkers. Participants will discuss understandings of creation present in scripture, in some key voices from Christian tradition such as Julien and Aquinas, and in current perspectives represented by writers like Matthew Fox, Leonardo Boff, Sally McFague, Rosemary Ruether, and Brian Swimme. The base of the discussions will be broadened through the use of film and other media.

Scheduled Mondays 6:00-9:00 p.m. 3 credits

Supervised Practice (Graduate level)

MP1714-1715 Chaplain Intern Program 
Garrett, Rex H

The Chaplain Intern Program (based upon the CPE model) is a seventeen hour per week, five and one-half month clinical pastoral training internship designed to assist the student in developing confidence and competence in hospital ministry, while facilitating personal growth and pastoral identity. Through the practice of ministry within Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, the intern is given the opportunity, through group and individual supervision, to reflect upon his/her ministry and process the insights gained. Through the exploration of issues and concerns raised, the intern works toward an integration of the theory and practice of ministry to the sick. Consideration for admission into the Chaplain Intern Program includes an interview with the Director of Chaplaincy Services, followed by a meeting with the Chaplaincy Advisory Council at Medical Center.

Scheduled at EMMC. 3-6 credits/semester

MP1718-1719 Clinical Pastoral Education

The basic unit of Clinical Pastoral Education is a 400-hour course. The student is given clinical pastoral responsibility for persons in need and receives close pastoral supervision as well as peer group feedback. This facilitates new awareness of the self as a person and as a minister, and of the needs of those receiving care. From theological reflection on specific human situations, new understanding is gained. Within the interdisciplinary team of helping persons, skills are developed in interpersonal and inter-professional relationships. Enrollment is limited to six persons per Supervisor. Applications must be completed at an early date. This course is accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education.

The are several opportunities for students to secure a full unit of CPE training within commuting distance of the Seminary. Summer opportunities out of state are also available. Students should apply for one of these programs at the appropriate institution and must register for course credit through the Seminary. Contact the Director of Mentored Practice for details.  Registration for clinical experiences during any academic year takes place in September of that year in order to allow various institutions to make adequate preparation.  

A full unit of CPE is equivalent to six semester credits at the Seminary. Students should apply early for the program in which they have interest as each site is limited (6-12 participants). Programs are subject to affirmative action requirementsincluding community participation.

Scheduled with an accredited C.P.E. program. 3-6 credits/semester

Mentored Practice (Graduate level)

MP1501-1502 Mentored Practice and Seminar 
Carlson, Robert T

Within a variety of church and community contexts, students reflect on the skills and sensibilities needed for effective ministry with a qualified ministry mentor. In addition, weekly seminars on campus encourage students to engage their peers in theological reflection, and serve as opportunities for constructive critique and support. So as to enhance their understanding of the dynamics of ministry in a congregational setting (regardless of their specific vocational goals), all students must complete at least one semester of practical work in a local church. To be properly registered for this program, all students must file a registration form, along with a completed learning covenant in consultation with their mentor and the director. When either CPE or CIP credits are used to meet a portion of the Mentored Practice requirements, the director and registrar must be notified in writing at the time of registration. Only three of the six elective credits for CPE or CIP may be applied toward Mentored Practice. New students register for 3 credits. Returning students register for 4 credits.

Scheduled Thursdays 4:00-6:00 p.m. 3 or 4 credits

Denominational Studies (Graduate level)

DS1702 The History and Theology of the United Church of Christ 
Gaewski, David R

This course contains an overview of the structure of the United Church of Christ; the biblical and theological foundations; its history prior to 1957 and its formation; its history since 1957; and the ecumenical context in which it now lives.

Scheduled Fridays Sept. 6 & 13; Oct 4 & 25; Nov. 1 & 15; Dec. 6 & 13, 9:30 am - 3 credits

DS1707 The Polity and Doctrine of the United Methodist Church 
Campbell-Marshall, Linda

The course examines the structures and government of the United Methodist Church.

Scheduled Friday Sept. 6 & 13; Oct. 4 & 25; Nov. 1 & 15; Dec. 6 & 13 9:30 a.m. 3 credits

DS1709 Unitarian Universalist History 
Worth, J Mark

A study of the development ofanti-trinitarianism and the Unitarian and Universalist movements, including biblical, theological and philosophical foundations, up until the 1961 consolidation and the history of the united body.

Scheduled Fridays 9:00-11:50 a.m. 3 credits

DS1713 The Emergence of Anglicanism 
Thomas, Margaret A

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the beginnings of Anglicanism. Particular attention is paid to its historical roots of Augustine of Cantebury, the Celts and the Synod of Whitby; the emergence in the Reformation in England and the Elizabethan settlement; and its continuing development during the seventeenth century including the influence of the Caroline Divines. Emphasis is placed on significant historical events and theological controversies and how these are apparent in the twenty-first century.

Scheduled Thursdays 8:30-11:20 a.m. 3 credits

Church and Ministry Units (Graduate level)

CMU425 BTS Choir/Topics in Sacred Music 
Sherwin, Ronald G.

The class will explore common issues encountered in church music programs and begin to develop musical skills that will be useful in ministry. Elements of a church music program, introducing hymns, resources for church musicians, and encouraging congregational singing will be some of the areas discussed. This semester's focus will be hymnology. Previous musical experience is not required. Arrangements will be made for those students wishing to take the class, but who are unable to sing during Wednesday worship.

Scheduled Tuesdays 4:00-5:30 pm; Wednesday Chapel 11:00-12:00 pm 1 credit

Independent Study

1790-1793 Independent Study

Tutorials are available in every area of theological study. To do a directed study, a student and a full-time professor contract with each other for a definite amount of work, including meetings with the instructor, to be accomplished during the coming academic semester. The student is then responsible for fulfilling those requirements. A student may take no more than four independent studies during the course of their degree.

Scheduled Contracted with full-time faculty. 1-3 credits

M.Div. Thesis (Graduate level)

1798-1799 M.Div. Portfolio, Project or Thesis

M.Div. students may complete a portfolio (3 credits), a project (3 or 6 credits) or a thesis (6 credits) during their senior year. The topic of the project or thesis must be academically acceptable and within the collective competence of the faculty. During the third semester prior to your graduation consult with a faculty member to discuss, define, or formulate the proposed topic. Obtain an M.Div. Project/Thesis Application form from the Registrar or an Independent Study Contract for the portfolio. Submit the completed form to the Chair of the Curriculum Committee at least six weeks before the end of the semester. See the Student Guide for complete details.

Scheduled Applied for. 3 credits/semester

M.A. Thesis (Graduate level)

1796-1797 M.A. Portfolio, Project or Thesis

M.A. students may complete a portfolio, a project or a thesis during their senior year for five (5) credits. The topic of the project or thesis must be academically acceptable and within the collective competence of the faculty. Completion of the portfolio, project or thesis must involve work equivalent to five (5) credits. During the third semester prior to your graduation consult with a faculty member to discuss, define, or formulate the proposed topic. Obtain an M.A. Project/Thesis Application form from the Registrar or an Independent Study Contract for the portfolio. Submit the completed form to the Chair of the Curriculum Committee at least six weeks before the end of the semester. See the Student

Scheduled Applied for. 2-1/2 credits/semester

Doctor of Ministry Studies

Unit III Values, Conflict, and Visions 
Sherman, Robert J

CONCORD. This seminar offers a theological, ethical, and pastoral examination of selected conflicts in North American culture and how these may be constructively addressed in churches synagogues, and other ministry contexts.

Scheduled See Academic Calendar 4 credits

Unit V Project in Ministry 
Guthrie, Clifton F

CALAIS. The third or project year is the capstone of the program. During this year, candidates carry out a specific project in ministry and prepare a report on the results of their work. Candidates work closely with the Team and a faculty advisor during this year.

Scheduled See Academic Calendar 4 credits

Courses being taught by adjunct faculty must register the equivalent of seven full credit students.
Liberal Studies students who wish to take courses that are not cross-listed must have permission of the instructor. 

The Seminary Reserves the right to make changes without prior notice to the information contained in the publication, including the alteration of various fees, schedules and the revision or cancellation of particular courses.


Previous Semesters:
The following course descriptions are from previous semesters.  They are provided for reference only and may contain outdated information.

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Last modified April 30, 2003