Catalogue 2008 Book - Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary

DEPARTMENT OF THE CHURCH’S MINISTRY
CM.126 INTRODUCTION TO PREACHING
This course provides students a general introduction to the task of preaching. In it students
will be asked to consider basic questions relative to the purpose of preaching and methods
appropriate to that purpose. Further, students will examine the ordinary mode of preaching
called a sermon to determine its essential characteristics. In addition, this introductory course
will offer the opportunity for the participants to practice various skills requisite to responsible
designing of sermons and effective oral communication. Six credits.
Ms. Lord or Ms. Saldine; Spring
CM.239 CHORAL MUSIC AND CORPORATE WORSHIP
In this course, students sing and learn about a wide variety of music from the standard
repertoire of the past, as well as some of the fi nest music of our own time. Students refl ect
upon music as a part of worship, and evaluate its role in specifi c services. The goal is to
increase participants’ understanding of the possible uses of music in worship and to broaden
their knowledge of music resources. Regular participation in the Seminary choir is required.
Students of varying vocal abilities are welcome. CM.239A concentrates on music from the
Medieval period to the 18 th century. CM.239B concentrates on music from the 19 th century
to the present day, including “world” music. Three credits. Mr. McClure
CM.249 RESPONSORIAL PSALMODY
This course explores the history and practice of responsorial psalmody. Six approaches are
covered: Gregorian psalm tones, Lutheran Book of Worship, Anglican chant, Gelineau, Hal
Hopson, and Haugen/Haas. Participants practice pointing the psalms in the various styles
and conclude the course by serving as cantor in a chapel service. Three credits.
Mr. McClure
CM.251 HYMNODY
This course provides students with a working knowledge of today’s eclectic repertoire of
hymns. Acknowledging the vital role of historic expressions in congregational praise today,
the fi rst part of the course is an intense historical survey, beginning with biblical hymns
and extending through the hymnals of the latter nineteenth century. The course then deals
with developments in contemporary hymnody, especially that of the last fi fteen years. Three
credits. Mr. McClure
CM.263 BAPTISM AND CHRISTIAN INITIATION
This course examines the function of sacramental celebrations in shaping and expressing
Christian faith and discipleship within the larger process of initiation in the life of the
worshiping community. Following liturgical-historical study of the theology and practice of
baptism, students examine the implications of recent reforms in sacramental theology and
the practice of Christian initiation for the church’s mission today, including the role of the
eucharist in initiation. The practical-theological study of baptism within Christian initiation
includes scrutiny of contemporary baptismal rites and doctrinal statements of the churches,
exploration of the liturgical space for baptism, and examination of liturgical roles in the
celebration of baptism. A variety of learning approaches are used, including lecture, discussion,
workshop exercises, and on-site study of liturgical environment and art. Prerequisite: CM.122
or instructor’s permission. Six credits.
CM.265 EUCHARIST AND THE CHURCH’S MINISTRY
This course examines the function of sacramental celebrations in shaping and expressing
Christian faith and discipleship against a background of shifting social, cultural, and political
contexts. Following historical investigation of the theology and practice of eucharistic
celebration, students examine the implications of recent reforms in sacramental theology and
the practice of the eucharist, or Lord’s Supper, for the understanding of Sunday, the church, and
the church’s ministry today, including attention to issues of evangelism and the role of baptism.
Practical-theological refl ection includes the study of ecumenical statements, denominational
standards, and liturgical rites within the context of a variety of learning approaches, such
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