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 Last updated April 30, 2003

Spring 2002
Pre-registration starts Wednesday, November 28, 2001.  Registration deadline for Bangor returning students is January 18, 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)

ENG1104  The Variety of Literary Voices  
Raikes, Kim Ridenour   
An introduction to a wide variety of writers from different social ethnic, sexual, and political contexts forms the basis of this course.  The purpose is to explore the role of a writers' contexts in their comprehension and communication of human life.  A major research paper is required.

          Scheduled     Wednesdays 1:00-3:50 pm                     (3 credits)

SOSCI/PT1716  Congregational Studies 
Miller, Glenn T
 
 
In the 1980s, students of American religion began to study Congregations with new seriousness.  Using tools drawn from the general study of American religion, especially history and sociology, a new literature was developed around how Congregations should be studied and new methods were developed.  This course will examine these new methods of study analysis and provide students with an opportunity to study these new methods both theoretically and in the field.

          Scheduled     Mondays 9:00-11:50 am                        (3 credits)

L.S. Biblical Studies (Undergraduate level)

ENGBIB1102  The New Testament 
Miller, Glenn T
 
 
A basic introduction to the content, Hellenistic context and theological concerns of the New Testament.

          Scheduled      Wednesdays 8:00-10:50 am                 (3 credits)

L.S. Language Studies (Undergraduate level)   

BL1512  Reading the Greek New Testament 
Trobisch, David 
 
The course continues where BL1511 left off.  It concentrates on Greek grammar and the development of a working vocabulary.  In addition to the NT, passages from the Greek Old Testament and from extra-canonical Christian literature will be analyzed in class. (The Liberal Studies language requirement will only be satisfied by the completion of both semesters of Greek, BL1511 and BL1512, “Reading the Greek New Testament.”  Credit for the BL1511 will not be given until the second semester, BL1512, is completed satisfactorily.)

          Scheduled    Thursdays 8:30-11:20 am                     (3 credits)

L.S. Electives (Undergraduate level)

CLN1602  Introduction to Pastoral Care  
Gustafson, Robert W   
The ministry of caring is the work of a community of faith.  Mutual openness to one another and to the presence and will of God are central features of caring communities.  Particular attention will be given to listening and communication skills; connections between theology and practice will be developed through case studies and roll play.

          Scheduled    Tuesdays 1:00-3:50 pm                        (3 credits)

CLN1710  Introduction to Small Church Ministry 
Planting, C. Scott
 
 
Developing Ministry in the Small Church.  Small churches provide a unique setting through which to carry out ministry.   The foundation of church life centers upon building relationships rather than planning ministry programs.  One of the challenges for building congregational health is to help members of small churches to explore avenues for strengthening and expanding the church's ministry. This course will explore the development of ministry in the small church from five perspectives: creating spiritual energy, congregational identity, expanding the leadership base, connecting with the community, and planning for mission.  Various practical models for ministry will be explored along with the role of pastoral leadership.

          Scheduled    Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 pm                  (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 vocal health.  Previous musical experience is not required.  Arrangements will be made for those students wishing to take the class, but are unable to sing during Wednesday worship.

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

Old Testament Studies (Graduate level)

OT1703  Jeremiah 
Kowalski, Vesta
 
 
An examination of the text of Jeremiah with particular reference to Jeremiah's role as a religious and social reformer.  Special attention will be paid to the crisis of exile.  Enrollment limited.  Prerequisite for OT1703 is IT1001.

          Scheduled   Wednesdays  1:00 - 3:50 pm          (3 credits)

OT1720  Wisdom Literature 
Haddix, James L
.
 
A survey of wisdom literature and the wisdom genre in the Old Testament with special emphasis on Proverbs and Job.

          Scheduled   Wednesdays  8:00-10:50 am              (3 credits)

New Testament Studies (Graduate level)

NT1703  Gospel of Matthew 
Hare, Douglas
 
 
This course concentrates on the narrative technique and the theological intention of the author, which made this writing the favorite gospel of the early church.

          Scheduled    Tuesdays  1:00-3:50 pm                   (3 credits)  

Biblical Languages (Graduate level)

BL1502p  Introduction to Biblical Hebrew II 
Bidlack, Beth
 
 
PORTLAND. Second semester.  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 Theological Studies degrees.  Credit for the first semester will not be given until the second semester is completed satisfactorily.)

          Scheduled   Thursdays  3:00-5:45 pm                   (3 credits)

BL1504 Hebrew Reading II  
Kowalski, Vesta   
In these courses, students will deepen their understanding of Hebrew grammar, increase their vocabulary, and develop facility in reading more rapidly.  A student may receive up to six credits for Hebrew Reading courses.

          Scheduled  Wednesdays 4:00-5:30 pm               (1-1/2 credits)

BL1512  Reading the Greek New Testament  
Trobisch, David   
The course continues where BL1511 left off.  It concentrates on Greek grammar and the development of a working vocabulary.  In addition to the NT, passages from the Greek Old Testament and from extra-canonical Christian literature will be analyzed in class. (The Liberal Studies language requirement will only be satisfied by the completion of both semesters of Greek, BL1511 and BL1512, “Reading the Greek New Testament.”  Credit for the BL1511 will not be given until the second semester, BL1512, is completed satisfactorily.)

          Scheduled    Thursdays 8:30-11:20 am                        (3 credits)

Church History (Graduate level)

CH1502  The Christian Movement in a Changing World 
Miller, Glenn T 
 
This course picks up the narrative at the Reformation and continues it to recent times. While some attention is given to Christianity in Europe, the primary focus of the course is on Christianity in the United States, Latin America, and Asia. The primary assignment for the semester is the composition of a major research paper on some aspect of modern Christianity.

          Scheduled    Tuesdays  9:00-11:50 am                           (3 credits)

Systematic Theology (Graduate level)

ST1502  Introduction to Christian Doctrine II 
Sherman, Robert J
 
 
A systematic and historical survey of both the key doctrines and the classical figures of Christian theology. The course introduces students to the basics of content and method, grounding them in the essential affirmations of the Christian faith and familiarizing them with various historic issues and debate. It continues the discussion of of theological method and Christology, and also considers the doctrines of Sin, the Holy Spirit, the Church and the "Last Things" (Eschatology).

          Scheduled Mondays 6:00-9:00 pm                         (3 credits)

ST1502p  Introduction to Christian Doctrine II  
Sherman, Robert J   
PORTLAND. A systematic and historical survey of both the key doctrines and the classical figures of Christian theology. The course introduces students to the basics of content and method, grounding them in the essential affirmations of the Christian faith and familiarizing them with various historic issues and debate. It continues the discussion of of theological method and Christology, and also considers the doctrines of Sin, the Holy Spirit, the Church and the "Last Things" (Eschatology).

              Scheduled    Tuesdays 6:00-9:00 pm        (3 credits)

ST1725  Issues in Modern Theology 
Sherman, Robert J 
 
A seminar course for students interested in examining various themes, questions and/or controversies in modern and/or postmodern or contemporary theology. This year's topic will be 
"Why Do We Believe the Way We Do?" Many of our contemporary religious and moral beliefs rest upon assumptions and attitudes conditioned by the ideology of the modern era - assumptions and attitudes which, however, often remain largely unrecognized by us. This course will survey the historical, philosophical, and theological landscape of the last several centuries to allow students a clearer sense of why contemporary Christians (and their critics) believe (or don't believe) the way they do.

          Scheduled   Thursdays  8:30-11:20 am                  (3 credits)

Christian Ethics (Graduate level)

ET/CLN1709  Pastoral Ethics 
Davies, Susan E 
 
Changing clergy roles and responsibilities are addressed in relation to a range of ethical issues faced in parish life and ministry, including confidentiality, collegiality with professional peers, clergy sexual misconduct, and the ethics of preaching, counseling, and social witness.  A framework for ethical pastoral conduct is developed which pays attention to power and professionalism within ministry.

          Scheduled    Mondays 1:00-3:50 pm                    (3 credits)

ET1704p  Economic Justice, Work and Class 
Ellison, Marvin M
 
 
PORTLAND. Debates about economic development, wealth and poverty, the democratization of the workplace, and fair distribution of resources will be examines along with specific issues, such as hunger, homelessness, and world population pressures.  The course will address local and regional concerns regarding economic justice against the backdrop of global dynamics.

          Scheduled    Wednesdays  3:00-6:00 pm                 (3 credits)

World Religions (Graduate level)

WR1604p  Buddhism 
Sawyer, Dana W
 
 
PORTLAND. Though all world Buddhists believe their teachings rely upon the same fifth century B.C. saint, Gautama Buddha, their beliefs, customs and practices vary greatly from sect to sect and from place to place.  In this course, we will first explore the early history of Buddhism to get a strong sense of its foundations, and then trace its development up through time and across various cultures, looking always for points of resonance and divergence.  What will emerge is an understanding of Buddhism as a family of related, but distinct religions.  Though many Buddhist sects and interpretations will be discussed, we will focus on three traditions in particular:  the Theravada Buddhism of Thailand and Cambodia, the Zen Buddhism of Japan, and the Tantric Buddhism of Tibet.  These varied traditions are picked to allow for a broad understanding of Buddhism.  Monks representing each tradition will visit our class as special guest speakers.

          Scheduled    Wednesdays  6:15 - 9:00 pm               (3 credits)

Pastoral Studies (Graduate level)

PS1501  Reflective Practice  
Davies, Susan E   
This course serves as an introduction to the field of Pastoral Studies. Attention is given to the larger cultural context in which the church finds itself at the beginning of the 21st century; current issues in the church such as language for God and human beings; gender, race, and class; vocation and calling; critical thinking; personal spiritual discernment; and ministerial ethics.  

Entering students develop learning goals for their theological education based on their degree program goals. The course also includes instruction in developing a portfolio for the mid-degree review. The course is strongly recommended for students in their first or second semester of study. It is required for all Master of Divinity degree candidates.

          Scheduled     Tuesdays 6:00-9:00 pm                    (3 credits)

Congregational Life & Nurture (Graduate level)

CLN/ET1709  Pastoral Ethics  
Davies, Susan E   
Changing clergy roles and responsibilities are addressed in relation to a range of ethical issues faced in parish life and ministry, including confidentiality, collegiality with professional peers, clergy sexual misconduct, and the ethics of preaching, counseling, and social witness.  A framework for ethical pastoral conduct is developed which pays attention to power and professionalism within ministry.

          Scheduled       Mondays 1:00-3:50 pm                     (3 credits)

CLN1602  Introduction to Pastoral Care  
Gustafson, Robert W   
The ministry of caring is the work of a community of faith.  Mutual openness to one another and to the presence and will of God are central features of caring communities.  Particular attention will be given to listening and communication skills; connections between theology and practice will be developed through case studies and roll play.

          Scheduled     Tuesdays 1:00-3:50 pm                     (3 credits)

CLN1710  Introduction to Small Church Ministry  
Planting, C. Scott   
Developing Ministry in the Small Church.  Small churches provide a unique setting through which to carry out ministry.  The foundation of church life centers upon building relationships rather than planning ministry programs.  One of the challenges for building congregational health is to help members of small churches to explore avenues for strengthening and expanding the church's ministry. This course will explore the development of ministry in the small church from five perspectives: creating spiritual energy, congregational identity, expanding the leadership base, connecting with the community, and planning for mission.  Various practical models for ministry will be explored along with the role of pastoral leadership.

          Scheduled     Wednesdays 4:00-7:00 pm              (3 credits)

Practical Theology (Graduate level)

PT1713p  Renewing the Art of Ministry 
Bujnak, Lynn L /Garabedian, Nash
 
PORTLAND.  Training for lay and ordained leadership in the church often focuses on the development of skills and techniques.  Yet, ministry is so much more!  It is also art, a creative expression of our life with God.  This course takes participants to the heart of ministry, our relationship with God.  Out of this center, we will explore three renewed models: Jesus' approach to leadership, finding God in the midst of conflict, and caring for ourselves body and soul.

          Scheduled    Fri. 6-9 pm 2/8, 3/15, 4/19, & 5/10;  Sat. 9am-4pm  2/9, 3/16, 4/20, & 5/11 (3 credits)

PT1722p  God and Gray Matter: Science and Religious Experience 
Guthrie, Clifton F
 
 
PORTLAND. An introduction to new developments in technology and religious studies, such as the Internet, neuro-theology, and evolutionary theories of the emergence of morality and religion.  This course allows participants to assess the relevance of these new theories for the Christian church, contemporary spirituality, and religious leadership in the new millennium.

          Scheduled            Mondays 6:00-9:00 pm              (3 credits)  

PT1723  European Choir Tour 
Ronald Sherwin
Students will join with church musicians from Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont and students and faculty from the University of Maine to form a choir that will tour German, Austrian, and Hungarian churches. The focus of the tour will be to interact with the local musicians and to gain a better understanding of the similarities and differences in our cultures. All students will be expected to read two relevant texts in the area of religious history, music, or art and architecture.

              Scheduled           To be announced                   (2-3 credits)

SOSCI/PT1716  Congregational Studies 
Miller, Glenn T 
 
In the 1980s, students of American religion began to study Congregations with new seriousness.  Using tools drawn from the general study of American religion, especially history and sociology, a new literature was developed around how Congregations should be studied and new methods were developed.  This course will examine these new methods of study and analysis and provide students with an opportunity to study these new methods both theoretically and in the field.

          Scheduled      Mondays  9:00 - 11:50 am                (3 credits)

Preaching and Worship (Graduate level)

PWS1602  Principles and Practice of Preaching 
Guthrie, Clifton F 
 
An introduction to the practices and principles of preaching, highlighting the use of Scripture in preaching, language and imagination, and good communication skills. Special attention is also given to preaching with small churches and preaching in the postmodern world. Each participant makes several oral presentations in class, preaches two complete sermons, and provides critical reflection on sermons preached by peers. Enrollment is limited to 12 students per term.

Required for all MDiv students. Prerequisites include a course in Bible, a course in Theology or the permission of the instructor.

          Scheduled     Thursdays  1:00 - 3:50 pm                 (3 credits)

PWS1703  Preaching Practicum 
Guthrie, Clifton F
An opportunity for students, with or without a regular preaching assignment, to practice and develop their exegetical, hermeneutical, and homiletical abilities. Participants preach at least six sermons during the semester.

          Scheduled        Wednesdays  1:00-3:50 pm             (3 credits)

PWS1716  Spiritual Direction  
Wagner, Elizabeth
  
A look at spiritual direction in its contemporary practice, its aims and goals as well as its limits, and an understanding of some of the basic skills necessary. Participants consider spiritual direction in its primary role of facilitating the relationship with and experience of God. A brief overview of the history of spiritual direction within the Christian tradition is also

          Scheduled   Mondays  1:00 - 3:50 pm          (3 credits)

Supervised Practice (Graduate level)

MP1501-1502  Supervised Ministry and Seminar  
Davies, Susan E  
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 Supervised 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 Supervised Practice.  
Enrollment limited to 10.

          Scheduled      Thursdays  4-6:00 pm                         (3 or 4 credits)

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

          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.  

There  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 requirements including community participation.

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

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 vocal health.  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)

CMU431  Transformative Process and Spiritual Development  
Burkart, Joseph Anthony  
Traditionally a seminal role of the religious leader has been aiding in the discernment of God's activity in one's individual
life and in the gathered community. This course will explore transformative process; a brief look at its historical, functional, and symbolic frameworks and its implication in the practice of ministry.

          Scheduled   Fridays 9:00 am -12:00 pm on Apr. 12, 19, and 26.     (1 credit)

CMU432  Understanding Jews & Judaism  
Milder, Laurence
This course presents an introduction to Jewish religion, history, and culture. An orientation to the basic texts of the Jewish tradition, the holiday cycle, life cycle rituals, liturgy, Jewish belief, and the sociology and politics of contemporary Jewish communities will be discussed.

          Scheduled   Fridays 9:00 am- 12:00 pm on Feb 8 & 15,and  Mar 1, 8, & 15        (1 credit)

CMU433  The Religion of Islam
El-Begearmi, Mahmoud   
 
A discussion regarding the beliefs, concepts, and cultural themes of the Islamic religion.

          Scheduled  Thursdays March 7, 14 & 21, April 4 & 11  6:00-9:00 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  Thesis  
Students may complete a thesis during their senior year for two courses (6 credits).  The Thesis Application must be submitted during the third semester prior to graduation.  The topic of the thesis must be academically acceptable and within the collective competence of the faculty.  Completion of the thesis must involve work equivalent to that of two regular three credit courses.  See the Student Guide for complete details.

          Scheduled         Applied for.      (3 credits/semester)

Doctor of Ministry Studies

Intensive IV  
Doctor of Ministry Intensive IV          
This session permits careful review of the proposed projects and addresses issues proposed by candidates as they move into the ministry project.

          Scheduled   June 10-14, 2002        (2 credits)

Unit II  
Resources for Sustenance and Renewal
  
Trobisch, David