Catalogue 2008 Book - Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary

DEPARTMENT OF THE CHURCH’S MINISTRY
offering viable ways to rethink church in relationship to the world and to understand the
public dimensions of Christian discipleship. Six credits. Messrs. Jensen and Jinkins
CM.301 THE POLITY OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (U.S.A.)
In this course students become acquainted with the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.), with special attention to the Book of Order. An emphasis is placed on the theological
roots of Presbyterian government. Students explore the practices of government that grow out
of Presbyterian polity in order to further the faithful mission of the church. Three credits.
CM.305 LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR
In this course students examine various models of organizational leadership and administration
with particular reference to communities of faith and non-profi t organizations. Special
attention is given to understanding the character of public leadership and how such leadership
serves the mission of various institutions. Students learn about the signifi cance of leading
in organizations that depend on “volunteers.” They also develop theory-rich practices for
analyzing social systems and negotiating confl ict within and beyond the organizations they
serve. Six credits. Mr. Jinkins
CM.329DOC THE HISTORY AND POLITY OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH (DISCIPLES
OF CHRIST)
In this course students critically examine the historical context for the origin of the Disciples
of Christ denomination and explore the development of that church up to the present day.
Participants also study the polity of the denomination in order to gain further understanding
of that tradition. Six credits.
CM.335 ENTRY INTO MINISTRY
This course addresses issues and aspects of ministry which students are likely to encounter in
the fi rst three-to-six years of service in a congregation. Particular attention is paid to identifying
professional growth concerns, developing practical survival skills—such as time management
and delegation of tasks—locating resources for personal and family support, learning to deal
effectively with congregational dynamics and interpersonal confl ict, and gaining competence
in theological refl ection on ministry. Six credits. Mr. Jinkins
CM.337 POWER AND CHANGE IN PASTORAL MINISTRY
This course inquires into the dynamics of congregational life and pastoral ministry. Questions
of vocation, authority, and power are addressed, including the pastor’s roles as priestly bearer
Dr. David F. White
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Dr. Louis H. Zbinden Jr.