Spring 2022 Course Schedule

SPRING 2022:

Most courses are available for face - to -face and remote/Synchronous participation.  Please see listings below.

Please note your preference by choosing section 01A for face-to-face or 01B for  remote/Synchronous registration.

Search by Focus Area
DOCTRINE |  SCRIPTURE |LANGUAGES |  PASTORAL THEOLOGY
HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY |  MORAL THEOLOGY |  SPIRITUALITY 
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMS |  FIELD EDUCATION |  LITURGY  |  LITURGICAL MUSIC 
ONLINE COURSES 


DOCTRINE

Sacrament and Worship

Ben Durheim | DOCT 424 / LTGY 424| 3 credits
8:00-11:10 AM  (Wednesdays)      Synchronous Course

The roots of Christian worship in symbol, language, and social dynamics. Theological reflection on the sacramental life in the Church. Contemporary approaches to a theology of sacrament especially in relation to Trinitarian, theology, Christology, Pneumatology, Christian anthropology, and ecclesiology. Cross-listed DOCT 424 and LTGY 424.

Documents of Vatican II

THIS COURSE IS CLOSED

Kristin Colberg | DOCT 426 01A | 3 credits
Weekend course--Saturdays  Synchronous Course 
8:30 AM -3:00 PM (Saturdays) |  January 15, February 12, March 12, April 9

The Second Vatican Council has impacted virtually every area of Catholic life and thought. The council invited and guided the church to know itself and its relation to the world more deeply, and the implications of this enhanced understanding continue to unfold today.  This course approaches the Second Vatican Council as a historical and theological event.  It examines the development of Vatican II, its final documents and the council's interpretation.  Emphasis will be given to seeing the council as a whole and the way that each particular document -- and all the documents together -- are an expression of the council's general aims and overarching goals.  Additionally, students will be asked to think independently about the connections between particular documents and how the council's teachings inform contemporary issues.

Asian Christian Theologies:  Intercultural, Interreligious, and Liberationist   

Chris Conway | DOCT 468| 3 credits
2:45-4:15 PM  (Tuesdays and Thursdays)     Synchronous Course

In the last century, the center of Christianity has shifted from the global North and West (Europe and North America) to the global South and East (Asia, Africa, and Latin America). This demographic transformation is coupled with a theological one as these communities’ questions, hopes, and concerns—universal and particular—give rise to their theologies. This course will focus on the historical and theological development of Asian Christian theologies, particularly in South and Southeast Asia, through these theologies’ engagement with what the Federation of Asian Bishops Conference calls ‘triple dialogue’: a dialogue with Asian cultures, a dialogue with Asian religions, and dialogue with Asian poverty.  


 

SCRIPTURE

The Gospels of Matthew of Mark

Charles Bobertz | SSNT 468 | 3 credits
Weekend course--Saturdays  Synchronous Course 
8:30 AM -3:00 PM (Saturdays) | January 22, January 29, February 19, March 26

Mark and Matthew, our two earliest canonical Gospels, are unique. They both present, each in their own way, the narrative story of Jesus Christ grounded in the Theology and Christology emerging in the Christian churches of the first century. This course will provide students with a close reading of each narrative along with an extensive discussion of the pastoral implications these two Gospels have in the life of the Church today.  

New Testament Greek l

Osmundson | SSNT 401 | 3 credits
11:30 AM-12:25 PM (Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays)

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.

Psalms

Dale Launderville | SSOT 416| 3 credits
8:00- 11:10 AM  (Tuesdays )     Synchronous Course

Study of the backbone of Jewish and Christian prayer for three thousand years. In addition to the exegesis of selected psalms, topics include: the formation of the Psalter, various translations, the spirituality of the psalms, and the use of the psalms in Christian prayer, especially the Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours.

 


PASTORAL THEOLOGY

The New Evangelization in a Secular Age

Jeff Kaster |   PTHM 401 | 3 credits
8:00-11:10 AM (Mondays)       Synchronous Course

This course examines contemporary theologies and principles of evangelization and catechesis; theories of human and faith development; and various models and methods of evangelization and catechesis. Particular attention will be given to advancing catechetical leadership skills in assessment and strategic planning for program improvement.

Homiletics

Charles Bobertz | PTHM 417 01A | 3 credits
6:00-9:15 PM  (Mondays)     NOTE:  This course is not available for Synchronous particpation.

Development of speaking, reading, and preaching skills at the eucharist and in other liturgical contexts such as marriage and family counseling or counseling the chemically dependent.

Theological Research Seminar

Daniella Zsupan-Jerome |   PTHM 465 / THY 465 | 3 credits
Dates and Times TBA        Synchronous Course

THY 465

The research seminar is designed to direct and guide students in advanced theological research for writing a paper or thesis. The course will focus on types of theological research and audiences; how to make a persuasive case and argument; how to conduct research, identify sources, use them critically, and cite in footnotes and bibliographies; how to organize and construct a major paper; and how to write in a clear and persuasive way. Students will read and engage other student projects in order to enhance their understanding of theological research and writing.  This course is open to graduate students in all degree programs.

 PTHM 465

Students enrolled in the Master of Divinity program are required to complete a capstone integration project at the conclusion of their degree. The project utilizes a fourfold method of practical theology that guides pastoral practice description, interpretation, theological reflection, and constructive response. Students will engage in theological research to write a paper and present an oral presentation. The course will focus on theological research and audiences in ministry; how to make a persuasive case and argument; how to conduct research, identify sources, use them critically, and cite in footnotes and bibliographies; how to organize and construct a major paper; and how to write in a clear and persuasive way. Students will read and engage other student projects in order to enhance their understanding of theological research and writing. 

Hello  Church:  Effective Communication for Ministry

Daniella Zsupan-Jerome | PTHM 468 | 3 credits
1:15-4:25 PM  (Wednesays)     Synchronous Course

This course explores communication both as a theological act and as a professional skill for healthy and effective ministerial practice.  Building on the foundations of communicative theology, this course invites students to examine and develop pastoral communication skills, including group process and facilitation skills, skills for dialogue, conflict management, navigating difficult conversations, and acquiring basic media literacy for public communication.   


HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY

History of Christianity II

Michael Rubbelke | HCHR 404   | 3 credits
1:00-2:30 PM  (Tuesdays and Thursdays)     Synchronous Course

This course will examine the development of the Christian tradition, including the expression of seminal doctrines within the Christian church, from the twelfth century to the present day. The course will explore the main trends in the development of the institution and primary doctrines of the church within the larger philosophical, social, and political contexts of the second millennium, paying attention to the ways in which the lived experience of Christian peoples informs and shapes its thinking.


MORAL THEOLOGY

No offerings in Moral Theology this Spring term.

SPIRITUALITY and MONASTIC STUDIES

Discernment in Prayer

Sam Rahberg | SPIR   437 | 0 credits or 1 credit

WEB COURSE

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. 

Required: Access to computer with built-in camera OR attached web cam. 

Course ASYNCHRONOUS ON-LINE January 10 to March 21

Group ZOOM meeting Tuesday, March 22, 7:00-8:30 PM   

Benedict Through the Ages

Michael Rubbelke | SPIR 468 / MONS 468   | 3 credits
6:00-9:15 PM  (Wednesdays)  Synchronous Course

This course examines how Benedict and his  Rule have molded, shaped, and creatively produced monastic life throughout Christian history. Starting from the Rule and Gregory the Great's account of Benedict, this course will examine Benedictine ascendancy in the Carolingian West, survey medieval and early modern Benedictine reform movements as well as major figures in Benedictine history. It will conclude by analyzing the importance of Benedict and his Rule for the contemporary Church.


LITURGY

History and Sources of Liturgy

Martin Connell | LTGY 400    | 3 credits
1:15-4:25 PM  (Wednesdays)  Synchronous Course

Survey of the history of Christian rites in Eastern and Western traditions, from New Testament to the present using primary texts. Basic introduction to the methodologies of liturgical studies and to disciplines related to the study of worship.

Sacrament and Worship

Ben Durheim | LTGY 424 / DOCT 424| 3 credits
8:00-11:10 AM  (Wednesdays)     Synchronous Course

The roots of Christian worship in symbol, language, and social dynamics. Theological reflection on the sacramental life in the Church. Contemporary approaches to a theology of sacrament especially in relation to Trinitarian, theology, Christology, Pneumatology, Christian anthropology, and ecclesiology. Cross-listed LTGY 424 and DOCT 424.

Liturgical Song

Anthony Ruff, OSB| LTGY 428    | 3 credits
1:15-4:25 PM  (Mondays)  Synchronous Course

Fundamental treatment of the nature of the liturgical assembly and the theological basis for sung congregational participation. Introduction to resources for all genres of congregational song – dialogues and chants; psalms, with emphasis on responsorial psalmody; service music and Mass settings; and hymns and songs, including historical survey of repertoire from various cultures. Principles of theological and liturgical appraisal of congregational repertoire.          

Liturgical Music Seminar

Anthony Ruff, OSB | LTGY 501   | 1 credit
8:00-9:30  AM (Thursdays) 

1 credit of classroom study integrated with 1 credit of participation in Chapel Choir. Students in the Seminar do not register separately for Chapel Choir. Foundational study of the theology, history, and official documents on music in worship. Principles for the ministry of cantors, choirs, instrumentalists, and ensembles. Practical aspects of music ministry and the management of a parish music program. Practica in liturgical planning of worship services in Emmaus Chapel, including (for Liturgical Music students) lab conducting of the Chapel Choir. Repeatable; offered in a four-semester sequence.  Cross listed with LMUS 501.


FIELD EDUCATION 

Clinical Pastoral Education 

Daniella Zsupan-Jerome | PTHM 412 | 3 credits

Students participate in a basic unit of an accredited Clinical Pastoral Education program.

Practicum/Theological Reflection

Daniella Zsupan-Jerome| PTHM 459 01A- 11A | 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
  • 08A  Spiritual Direction (limited to Spiritual Direction Cohort)
  • 09A Ministry on the Margins
  • 10A Liturgical Music Ministry
  • 11A  Liturgical Space Analysis (limited to Liturgical Art and Architecture Cohort)

Practicum / Theological Reflection:  Spiritual Direction Practicum 

Sam Rahberg | PTHM 459 08A | Variable 1-6  credits
6:00-8:00 PM  (Mondays)

January 31; February 28, March 28; April 25

Note:  Limited to those in the Spiritual Direction Program

MAM Ministry Portfolio

Daniella Zsupan-Jerome|   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

Daniella Zsupan-Jerome | 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

Shawn Colberg | THY   580 | 6 credits

TBA--Director will arrange meetings with student.

The Thesis is the capstone project for the ThM degree.


COMPREHENSIVE EXAMS

Reading for Comprehensive Exams

Shawn Colberg | THY   598 | 3 credits

Comprehensive Exams

Shawn Colberg | THY   599 | 0 credit--registration only

LITURGICAL MUSIC

Applied Piano

Robert Koopmann, OSB |  LMUS 406 | 1 credit

Times TBA

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

Times TBA

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

Times TBA

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

Times TBA

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

Times TBA

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.

Choral Literature

Elizabeth Grefsheim | LMUS 434 | 1 credit
TBA  |     Synchronous Course

Survey of repertoire for liturgical choirs, with emphasis on liturgical appropriateness. Practical aspects of

programming choral music through the liturgical year and for various rites.

**********************************

ELIZABETH GREFSHEIM is the Director of Music and Liturgy at the Church of the Epiphany in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, where she directs several choirs and ensembles, directs the annual dinner theater, and teaches in the parish school. She has presented and conducted extensively at the state and national levels. She recently retired from the faculty of the VoiceCare Network, for which she was also on the board, and she is the co-author of a Voice Conditioning CD. She is a member of ALM, NPM, and ACDA.

 

Chapel Choir

Maureen Putnam|  LMUS 412 | 0 credits or 1 credit
9:45-11:15 AM  (Thursdays)

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.  May be taken for 0 or 1 credit.

Liturgical Music Seminar

Anthony Ruff, OSB |   LMUS 501 | 2 credits
8:00-9:30 AM  (Thursdays) 

1 credit of classroom study integrated with 1 credit of participation in Chapel Choir. Students in the Seminar do not register separately for Chapel Choir. Foundational study of the theology, history, and official documents on music in worship. Principles for the ministry of cantors, choirs, instrumentalists, and ensembles. Practical aspects of music ministry and the management of a parish music program. Practica in liturgical planning of worship services in Emmaus Chapel, including (for Liturgical Music students) lab conducting of the Chapel Choir. Repeatable; offered in a four-semester sequence.  Cross listed with LTGY 501.

Gregorian Chant II:  Advanced

Anthony Ruff, OSB |   LMUS 411 | 1 credit 
   WEB COURSE

Asynchronous Course

Expanded treatment of historical development, modality, solemn psalm tones, Latin pronunciation, and repertoire for liturgical use, with extensive study of lineless notation (St. Gall, Laon) and its application to the interpretation of advanced chant repertoire; advanced conducting. Prerequisite: Gregorian Chant I or equivalent.

___________________________________________________________________________

LANGUAGES

Reading Ecclesial Latin  ll

Scott Richardson | LANG 402 | 3 credits

9:10-10:05 AM (Monday/Wednesday/Friday)

Continuation of 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 468| 3 credits

TBA--Instructor will arrange meetings with students.

Through a combination of rapid reading of selected OT Hebrew texts and a more methodical analysis of grammar and syntax, this course aims to assist the student in her/his skill in interpreting Old Testament texts.   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 ZOOM Conference)

All regular  three-credit courses are available in SYNCHRONOUS format (except LTGY 501/LMUS 501 and PTHM 417 Homiletics)

Asynchronous--Course is offered entirely on the WEB platform

Discernment in Prayer

Sam Rahbeg | SPIR   437 | 0 credits or 1 credit

WEB COURSE

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. 

Required: Access to computer with built-in camera OR attached web cam.  

Course ASYNCHRONOUS ON-LINE January 10 to March 21

Group ZOOM meeting Tuesday, March 22 (7:00-8:30 PM)       

Gregorian Chant II -- Advanced

Anthony Ruff, OSB |   LMUS 411 | 1 credit 
Asynchronous Course

Expanded treatment of historical development, modality, solemn psalm tones, Latin pronunciation, and repertoire for liturgical use, with extensive study of lineless notation (St. Gall, Laon) and its application to the interpretation of advanced chant repertoire; advanced conducting. Prerequisite: Gregorian Chant I or equivalent.