Pastoral Theology and Care

3 credits · Divinity School

This course introduces students to basic theories, theologies and methods of pastoral care, especially (though not exclusively) in the ecclesial context. This course assumes that care is mediated through acts of pastoral leadership, liturgy, preaching and the forming of congregational life and programming as well as through specific individual conversations. Special attention is paid to the person of the pastor as caregiver and leader of a community of faith and care. Theories and methods of care are related to real and practical problems a pastor faces in a congregation including illness and death, grief and loss, marriage and family issues, domestic violence and abuse. Skills learned will include listening, analysis of systems, and diagnosis and referral. FALL, SPRING. [3]