THEOLOGY AND MINISTRY IN THE AGE OF MIGRATION (RSST-8300)

This course is co-taught by Eduardo Fernandez and GTU doctoral student Hanna Kang, with a Newhall Award.Migration has long been a “sign of the times,” and part of a phenomenon that is producing significant economic, social, political, and ethical changes globally. In theology, the complexity of migration raises serious questions about our Christian values and God-talk. It causes us to revisit our notion of neighbor, changes our pastoral setting, and challenges our conventional, simplified responses to issues related to the subject. This course is designed for master’s students to help them a) explore the diverse patterns of global migration in today’s context b) discuss why migration should be brought to the center of theological reflection, and c) give examples of current pastoral responses. It engages media as well as guest speakers. Since this is an introductory course, there are no prerequisites. However, because the course integrates studies from different fields, students are expected to approach the subject in an interdisciplinary way. This course is part of a Newhall Fellowship, marking the collaboration between a doctoral Korean-Argentinean student and a Latino missiologist, both members of GTU’s department of Religion and Practice. Assignments include class presentations and a final research paper. Advanced master’s and doctoral students are welcome but will require an upgrade to be negotiated with the instructors. Auditors are welcome with permission. [Auditors with faculty permission]