Pastoral Studies

The course introduces the students to an investigation of the theological foundations of pastoral care. It will introduce the student to critical counseling skills which will include dealing with communication, assertiveness and conflict resolution. Students will examine a variety of particular counseling issues such as addictions, loss and bereavement, suicide.

The goal of this course is to introduce students to basic interpretive and homiletical skills, to inculcate in them a reverent attitude toward the preaching task and to offer them the opportunity to practice oral communication skills. It is important to note, however, that learning to preach is a lifelong task and the goal is not to have fully formed preachers by the end of the course. Rather, by God’s grace, students will complete the course with the ability to teach themselves to preach in some regular situation in the future.

Enhancing Pastoral Care Skills through ‘Guided Life Review.’ In order to be an effective minister, the pastoral worker needs to know him/herself well.

The course introduces the students to pastoral ministry and service in the Church. It provides the students a theological view on the various ministries in the context of the individual and community dimension of human experience leading them to the appreciation of the dialogue between contemporary experience and Christian tradition.

This course provides students with a survey of common approaches to ethics in leadership, an introduction to theories of leadership, and an opportunity to apply various ethical frameworks to moral challenges that face leaders in both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations (including Catholic-based organizations). Topics include the moral foundations of ethical frameworks, developing a theory of leadership, and becoming virtuous leaders of virtuous organizations.

The course provides a theological reflection on liturgical experience and expression of Christian communities. Special attention will be given to preparation and practices of prayer, liturgy of the hours, presiding, ritual, and music. The course is designed for those planning liturgy in parishes, schools, and other institutional settings.

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An opportunity for an experience-based learning situation. During the term students will meet on regular basis in order to serve the integration of ministry experience with academic and personal growth.