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Fall 2001
Pre-registration starts Tuesday, May 01, 2001.  Registration deadline for Bangor returning students is August 15, 2001.  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)

ENG1102 Scholarly Composition.
Raikes, Kim Ridenour

This course focuses on techniques of scholarly composition including: identifying, using, and evaluating library and Internet sources, recording information, organizing material, composing and revising, and documenting sources. A major research paper, exhibiting assimilation of information, originality of perspective, and creative written expression, is required. ENG1101 is strongly recommended. Word processing skills are essential.

Bangor, Wednesdays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

SCI1201 Geology
Myers, Allen C.

An introduction to the geology of our planet, with emphasis on: geological processes at its surface, the perspective of geological time, and the development of habits of scientific thinking. Course includes field trips, in-class exercises, lectures, readings, and discussion.

Bangor, Thursdays, 8:30-11:20 a.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.

Bangor, Wednesdays, 8:00-10:50 a.m. (3 credits)

L.S. Language Studies (Undergraduate level)

NT/BL1511 New Testament Greek I
Trobisch, David

This one semester study of New Testament Greek is intended to furnish the rudiments of New Testament vocabulary and grammar for the lexical and exegetical purposes of the pastor and theologian. It may be taken as a stand-alone New Testament elective. The Liberal Studies language requirement will only be satisfied by the completion of BL 1512, reading New Testament texts, and Liberal Studies credit will only be given when both semesters have been successfully completed.

Bangor, Mondays, 9:00-11:50 a.m. (3 credits)

L.S. Electives (Undergraduate level)

CLN1509 Leadership, Change & Organization
Planting, C. Scott

This course focuses on basic issues of leadership, and change and organizational development in parish and community settings.

Bangor, Wednesdays, 4:00-7:00 p.m. (3 credits)

CLN1727 Learning to Connect: Communication Skills
Sherman, Carol J.

Using the text Connecting and the Connecting Skills Workbook, this course will provide a conceptual framework for improving your self-awareness and your ability to communicate with others, as well as opportunity to hone those skills with coaching and supervision in class. Reading and practice exercises between classes will prepare you for a heavy emphasis on in-class practicing of skills. Grading will be based on (1) completion of workbook assignments; (2) in-class participation; and (3) 2 or 3 five page essays.

Bangor, Tuesdays, 1:00 - 3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

CMU424 Christian Education
Mott, Annette

This course will provide an overview of the educational mission of the church with special attention to the role of the Pastor as teacher and as a teacher of teachers. It will explore the limits and possibilities of traditional educational forms (e.g. Sunday School, confirmation, youth fellowships, adult Bible study) as well as innovative models of faith formation intended to address the changing cultural context in which the church ministers. It will address the crucial role of the Pastor in setting the educational climate for the congregation and in ensuring the theological integrity of the "nuts and bolts" of educational ministry.

Bangor, Fridays, October 5; November 12; and December 14, 10:00 a.m.- 4:00p.m. (1 credit)

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

This new course will incorporate music history and hymnology into a choral rehearsal for Wednesday service. The first half of each class will include class discussions on such subjects as periods in sacred music history, the role of woman in hymnology, and the introduction of a new hymnal. The second half of each class will involve the preparation of an anthem for the Wednesday worship service. Arrangements will be made for those students wishing to take the class, but who are unable to sing during Wednesday worship.

Bangor, Tuesdays, 4:00-5:30 p.m. (1 credit)

PWS1714 The Search for Spiritual Identity
Wagner, Elizabeth

This course focuses on themes fundamental to every Christian life: calling, vocation, uniqueness, identity. What does it mean to be a Christian? How do we find out own identity in God? How does an understanding of the spiritual journey help us recognize our own deepest identity and calling? We will use psychological texts from Erikson and Jung to help illuminate spiritual masters such as Meister Eckhart, John of the Cross, Thomas Merton, and others.

Bangor, Mondays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

WR1602 History of Religions
Sawyer, Dana W.

A study of the various religious traditions in their historical context. Each religion will be examined for its own understanding of humankind and of the world.

Bangor, Mondays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

Biblical Studies (Graduate level)

BS1501 Biblical Narrative: From Genesis to Revelation
Kowalski, Vesta

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.

Bangor, Wednesdays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

New Testament Studies (Graduate level)

NT/BL1511 New Testament Greek I
Trobisch, David

This one semester study of New Testament Greek is intended to furnish the rudiments of New Testament vocabulary and grammar for the lexical and exegetical purposes of the pastor and theologian. It may be taken as a stand-alone New Testament elective. The Liberal Studies language requirement will only be satisfied by the completion of BL 1512, reading New Testament texts, and Liberal Studies credit will only be given when both semesters have been successfully completed.

Bangor, Mondays, 9:00-11:50 a.m. (3 credits)

NT1701 Gospel of John
Throckmorton, Burton H.

An exegesis of the Gospel of John.

Bangor, Thursdays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

NT1705p Gospel of Mark, Exegesis
Michaels, J. Ramsey

An exegesis of the Gospel of Mark with particular attention to its relevance for the contemporary church.

Portland, Wednesdays, 3:00-5:45 p.m. (3 credits)

NT1720 The Text of the New Testament
Trobisch, David

An introduction to the oldest extant handwritten copies of New Testament writings. The objective is to develop skills in reading ancient manuscripts, to understand the editorial effort behind the critical apparatus, and to assist in a theological appreciation of the text. There is probably no sentence in the New Testament that has exactly the same wording in each of the Greek manuscripts. Reading knowledge of Greek required.

Bangor, Tuesdays, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (3 credits)

Biblical Languages (Graduate level)

BL1501p Introduction to Biblical Hebrew I
Bidlack, Beth

This course is designed for students who have not studied Hebrew previously. The course emphasizes 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.)

Portland, Thursdays, 3:00-5:45 p.m. (3 credits)

BL1503 Hebrew Reading I
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.  

Bangor, Wednesdays, 4:00-5:30 p.m. (1-1/2 credits)

NT/BL1511 New Testament Greek I
Trobisch, David

This one semester study of New Testament Greek is intended to furnish the rudiments of New Testament vocabulary and grammar for the lexical and exegetical purposes of the pastor and theologian. It may be taken as a stand-alone New Testament elective. The Liberal Studies language requirement will only be satisfied by the completion of BL 1512, reading New Testament texts, and Liberal Studies credit will only be given when both semesters have been successfully completed.

Bangor, Mondays, 9:00-11:50 a.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.

Bangor, Tuesdays, 8:30-11:20 a.m. (3 credits)

CH1601 Religion in America
Miller, Glenn T.

A study of the origin, development, and contemporary status of religion in the United States. Particular attention is paid to the interaction of religious organizations and their ideals with the larger culture.

Bangor, Wednesdays, 8:00-10:50 a.m. (3 credits)

CH1717p Images of Women in Christian History
Miller, Glenn T.

This course surveys the church's attitudes toward women and identifies key streams in the tradition. Special attention will be paid to witchcraft and women's leadership roles in various heretical movements.

Portland, Wednesdays,  6:00-9:00 p.m. (3 credits)

Systematic Theology (Graduate level)

ST1501 Introduction to Christian Doctrine
Sherman, Robert S.

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.

Bangor, Mondays, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (3 credits)

ST1501p Introduction to Christian Doctrine
Sherman, Robert S.

An historical and systematic survey of both classic figures and the key doctrines of Christian theology. It introduces students to the basics of content and method, grounding them in the historic issues, various debates and essential affirmations of the Christian faith and fostering a critical and constructive ability to "think theologically." Recommended to students with little background in systematic theology.

Portland, Tuesdays, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (3 credits)

ST1711 The Theology of Karl Barth
Sherman, Robert S.

An introduction to Barth’s theology. Apart from some basic secondary material, this seminar emphasizes the reading and in-depth examination of a variety of Barth’s own work, drawn from his Church Dogmatics and/or other writings.

Bangor, Thursdays, 8:30-11:20 a.m. (3 credits)

Christian Ethics (Graduate level)

ET1502 "The View From Below": An Introduction to Christian Ethics
Ellison, Marvin M.

This course provides the basic tools and resources for Christian ethical reflection within the context of Christian life and ministry. Adopting the "view from below" and advocating justice (or right-relatedness) with those who suffer and are marginalized, provide the starting points for shaping Christian ethics in the midst of cultural conflict. Recommended to students without background in ethics or social critique.

Bangor, Wednesdays, 4:00-7:00 p.m. (3 credits)

ET1751 Domestic Violence in Theological Perspective
Ellison, Marvin M.

This course seeks to increase awareness of the nature and extent of violence in the family, to develop strategies of response and prevention, and to strengthen cooperation between the churches and the domestic violence movement. A major focus is the religious and theological concerns of victims/survivors and their questions about suffering, obedience, power, forgiveness, reconciliation, and hope. (This course is co-taught by a staff member from the local domestic violence project.)

Bangor, Thursdays, 8:30-11:20 a.m. (3 credits)

ET1751p Domestic Violence in Theological Perspective
Ellison, Marvin M.

(See previous description)

Portland, Mondays, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.  (3 credits)

World Religions (Graduate level)

WR1602 History of Religions
Sawyer, Dana W.

A study of the various religious traditions in their historical context. Each religion will be examined for its own understanding of humankind and of the world.

Bangor, Mondays, 1:00 - 3:50 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.

Bangor, Thursdays, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (3 credits)

Congregational Life & Nurture (Graduate level)

CLN1711 Ministry with People who are Dying or Bereaved
Gustafson, Robert W.

An examination of the church's unique role and ministry in the context of dying, death and bereavement. Theological, social experiential and pastoral dimensions provide the framework for the course. Particular attention is given to the distinctive aspects of congregational and pastoral ministry in understanding and caring for those experiencing loss through death. Readings, discussion, video analysis, role plays, visit to a local funeral home and consultations with area hospices are included.

Bangor, Tuesdays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

CLN1727 Learning to Connect: Communication Skills
Sherman, Carol J.

Using the text Connecting and the Connecting Skills Workbook, this course will provide a conceptual framework for improving self-awareness and the ability to communicate with others, as well as opportunity to hone those skills with coaching and supervision in class.

Bangor, Tuesdays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

Spirituality (Graduate level)

PWS1713p The Spiritual Journey
Kerr, Carol L.

The development of the contemplative spiritual path, with primary emphasis on understanding and deepening our own journeys. Focus will be on the fundamental elements of the contemplative path such as calling/discipleship, uniqueness/commonality, stability/openness, community/solitude, liberty/accountability, presence/alienation, and prayer/service. This course will develop a contemporary methodology of the spiritual journey, and will be augmented by readings from ancient and contemporary Christian writers.

Portland, Thursdays, 6:00-9:00 p.m. (3 credits)

PWS1714 The Search for Spiritual Identity
Wagner, Elizabeth

This course focuses on themes fundamental to every Christian life: calling, vocation, uniqueness, identity. What does it mean to be a Christian? How do we find out own identity in God? How does an understanding of the spiritual journey help us recognize our own deepest identity and calling? We will use psychological texts from Erikson and Jung to help illuminate spiritual masters such as Meister Eckhart, John of the Cross, Thomas Merton, and others.

Bangor, Mondays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

Mentored Practice (Graduate level)

MP1501-1502 Mentored Practice 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 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.

Thursdays, 4:00-6:00 p.m. (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 Council at the Medical Center.

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 6 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 the 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 has a limited enrollment (6-12 participants). Programs are subject to affirmative action requirements, including community participation.

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

Small Church (Graduate level)

CLN1509 Leadership, Change & Organization
Planting, C. Scott

This course focuses on basic issues of leadership, and change and organizational development in parish and community settings.

Bangor, Wednesdays, 4:00-7:00 p.m. (3 credits)

Denominational Studies (Graduate level)

DS1703 The Practice of Ministry in the United Church of Christ Alexander, Jean M.; Gaewski, David R.

This course incorporates preparation for ordination; the process of placement; resources for ministry within the United Church of Christ; current issues; and practical preparation for the ethical, social, and sacramental life of the denomination.

Bangor, Fridays, Sept. 14, 21; Oct. 19, 26; Nov. 9, 16,& 30; Dec. 7, 10:00a.m.-3:00p.m. (2 credits)

DS1708 The History of the United Methodist Church
Campbell-Marshall, Linda

The development of Methodism from John Wesley to the present, with a special emphasis on the roles of women and minorities in the Methodist tradition.

Bangor, Wednesdays, 1:00-3:50 p.m. (3 credits)

DS1721 Anglican Worship: Practicum
Cox, Clyde H.

This one semester course will provide occassions for the practice in the conduct of all Prayer Book Services (Holy Baptism; Holy Eucharist), all of the Pastoral Offices (Burial: Marriage; Visitation of the Sick), as well as the Daily Offices. Actual practice of "how to celebrate" will equip students in the presiding roles in Prayer Book Worship.

Bangor, Fridays, 1:00-4:00 p.m. (3 credits)

DS1722 Anglican Pastoral Care
Cox, Clyde H.

This course will concentrate upon the practice of Parish Ministry. Topics to be covered include: Parish Administration; recordkeeping; the spiritual life of a Pastor; models of Parish Ministry; church and school leadership in the Parish; and conflict management and resolution in small, town, or rural mission congregations.

Bangor, Fridays, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (3 credits)

Church and Ministry Units (Graduate level)

CMU424 Christian Education
Mott, Annette

This course will provide an overview of the educational mission of the church with special attention to the role of the Pastor as teacher and as a teacher of teachers. It will explore the limits and possibilities of traditional educational forms (e.g. Sunday School, confirmation, youth fellowships, adult Bible study) as well as innovative models of faith formation intended to address the changing cultural context in which the church ministers. It will address the crucial role of the Pastor in setting the educational climate for the congregation and in ensuring the theological integrity of the "nuts and bolts" of educational ministry.

Bangor, Fridays, October 5; November 12; and December 14, 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m. (1 credit)

CMU425 BTS Choir/Topics in Sacred Music

Sherwin, Ronald G.

This new course will incorprate music history and hymnology into a choral rehearsal for Wednesday service. The first half of each class will include class discussions on such subjects as periods in sacred music history, the role of woman in hymnology, and the introduction of a new hymnal. The second half of each class will involve the preparation of an anthem for the Wednesday worship service. Arrangements will be made for those students wishing to take the class, but who are unable to sing during Wednesday worship.

Bangor, Tuesdays, 4:00-5:30 p.m. (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.

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.

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 Guide for complete details.

Applied for. (2-1/2 credits/semester)

Doctor of Ministry Studies

Unit I, The Vocation of The Congregation
Davies, Susan E.

CONCORD. This opening seminar provides an opportunity for candidates to reflect critically on the meaning of vocation and ministry within the context of contemporary North American culture.

On the Academic Calendar. 6 credits

Unit III, The Integrity of the Congregation
Guthrie, Clifton F.

CALAIS. Congregations develop their distinctive ethos or character in the ways in which they appropriate, articulate and reform the Christian heritage. This seminar examines congregations as institutions of integrity, responsibility and accountability. The theme of conflict and change in North American church life is highlighted. Of particular concern is the economics of the congregation and the ways in which money influences both congregational life and ministerial practice. In addition, this seminar studies the internal theological cohesion of the congregation and moves from this study to an examination of the empowerment of the whole people of God.

On the Academic Calendar. (6 credits)

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 November 18, 2001