An exploration of the intimate link between theology, ministry, and spirituality. Theological reflection on the Catholic Christian faith tradition, the cultural world of the 21st Century, and personal faith experience. Pastoral Ministry Certificate students only. Fall semester, even-numbered years. 3 credits.

An introduction to the Old Testament exploring scholarly methods of analyzing and interpreting the scriptures; geopolitical and socioeconomic factors shaping the traditions of the people of Israel; and theological motifs of the Law, Prophets, and Wisdom writings. Satisfies the Theology requirement of the Liberal Arts Curriculum. Fall semester. 3 credits.

A study of the church’s understanding of its nature and mission in light of Vatican II. Topics also include: various ‘models’ of church, the church’s teaching role, diversity of ministries, the challenge of being a global church, and ecumenical and interfaith relations. Open to theology majors, minors, and Pastoral Ministry certificate students, or with permission of the instructor. Spring semester, even-numbered years. 3 credits.

An exploration of the theological meaning and ritual celebration of each of the seven sacraments, the liturgical year, the role of the arts in worship, and the planning of meaningful liturgical celebrations for major life events. Satisfies the Theology requirement of the Liberal Arts Curriculum. Spring semester, odd-numbered years. 3 credits. Fee.

A study of the foundations of Christian ethics and an examination of method in moral decision-making. Closer study of selected contemporary moral issues with an emphasis on social ethics. Writing Intensive course. Satisfies the Theology requirement of the Liberal Arts Curriculum. Spring semester, even-numbered years. 3 credits.

An understanding of Jesus and of the salvation He brings, grounded in the scriptural accounts of His teaching, actions, death, and resurrection. Theological reflection on the significance of Jesus in relation to contemporary global issues. Satisfies the Theology requirement of the Liberal Arts Curriculum. Fall semester. 3 credits.

The ‘capstone’ of the pastoral ministry program, this course explores the theology and spirituality of lay ecclesial ministry, develops advanced ministry skills, reflects on the role of canon law and ethics in ministry, and guides students in preparing their showcase portfolios. Upper-level pastoral ministry students only. Spring semester, odd-numbered years. 3 credits.

Supervised, evaluated ministry experience in an area relevant to a student's interest. Required of theology majors who elect the emphasis in pastoral ministry. Repeatable for credit. Permission required. Pass/Fail only. 3 credits.

Integrates knowledge obtained from the Liberal Arts Curriculum to understand the biological, psychological, social, and cultural determinants of human behavior for infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Theories of human development and human behavior are critically examined to determine their applicability to diverse populations. An ecological life model perspective is integrated with systems theory in order to help students recognize the relationship among micro (individual), mezzo (family and group), and macro (organizations, communities, and society) level problems. Tubercular check, Act 33 Child Abuse, Act 34 Criminal Record check, Act 114 FBI Federal Criminal History Record, and PDE-6004 (Arrest or Conviction Report and Certification Form) required before the course begins. Pre- or co-requisite: SSW150. Fall semester. 3 credits.

Introduces students to the social work skills of effective communication and engagement in working with individuals, families, and organizations in a variety of helping situations. Fall semester, and ADP session 4 in odd-numbered years. 3 credits.