Theology - Fall 2008

Click on the Course Code to see the full course description. If you have questions, please contact the academic advisor, Dr. Edward Mahoney, emahoney@smcvt.edu, 802.654.2578, or the Program Assistant, Lisa McCormick, lmccormick2@smcvt.edu, 802.654.2579.

   Classes begin the week of September 1st and end the week of December 19th unless otherwise noted. Monday classes are held on Labor Day, September 1st.

Course
Code

Course Name and Credits

Instructor

Days

Time /Dates

Place

GTH 743

Meaningful Liturgy: Planning and Preaching (3)

Verploegen

F

Sat

6:00pm-9:00pm
Sept. 26; Oct. 17;
Nov. 14; Dec. 5
9:00am-4:00pm
Sept. 27; Oct. 18;
Nov. 15; Dec. 6

JEM 393

GTH 715

Early Christian Mysticism (3)

Kenney

T

5:00pm-7:30pm

JEM 391

GTH 743 Meaningful Liturgy: Planning and Preaching (3 cr.)
Instructor: Monica (Nicki) Verploegen, Ph.D.
1) September 26-27, 2008
2) October 17-18, 2008
3) November 14-15, 2008  
4) December 5-6, 2008
Friday 6:00-9:00PM, Saturday 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Jeanmarie Hall 393
This course will focus on the liturgical life of the contemporary Christian and how worship contributes or hinders the development of a spiritual life.  In addition to discussing liturgical elements that enhance spiritual growth and communal worship, a major focus of the course will be the practical aspects of planning and implementing effective liturgy, including creating sacred space.  Emphasis will be placed on the liturgical cycle and the preparation of eucharistic and non-eucharistic liturgies within the various seasons.  Students will be expected to prepare and preach in front of their peers.  Attention will also be given to liturgical planning in situations such as retreats, a liturgy in the absence of a priest, and the Liturgy of the Hours.  Attendance at all four weekends is expected. 
Liturgical Studies
Auditors are welcome with the proviso that participation in discussion is expected and reading of the appropriate material has been done in keeping with the assignments of the class.

GTH 715  Early Christian Mysticism (3 cr.)
Instructor:  John P. Kenney, Ph.D.
Tuesday, 5:00-7:30 PM
Jeanmarie 391
The Confessions of Saint Augustine is one of the greatest works of the Christian mystical or contemplative tradition. This course will consist in a close reading of the text with special reference to Augustine’s accounts of his experiences of the presence of God. Several works which were important for Augustine’s theological development will be read: selected Enneads of Plotinus, the Life of Plotinus by Porphyry, and the Life of Saint Anthony by Saint Athanasius. We will also examine some of the earliest works of Augustine, written at the time of his conversion, especially the Soliloquies. 
Doctrinal Studies

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GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN THEOLOGY AND PASTORAL MINISTRY

Saint Michael's offers the Master of Arts in Theology with concentrations in Biblical Studies, Doctrinal Studies Religious Education, and Pastoral Ministry-Spirituality. We also offer a Graduate Certificate and a Certificate of Advanced Studies. We welcome students who wish to audit courses for their own enrichment.