PASTORAL CARE IN CHAPLAINCY (PS-3378)

This course will introduce students to the principles and possibilities of pastoral care in the contexts of chaplaincy and congregational ministry, and it will do so by attending to the contexts and needs of those who live on the margins. This contextual approach is critical because it is, in the words of Howard Thurman, the “growing edge” of our global society. As Thurman notes, life at its fullest is lived along the margins: “Such is the growing edge! It is the extra breath from the exhausted lung, the one more thing to try when all else has failed, the upward reach of life when weariness closes in upon all endeavor.” Making a way out of no way is the height of pastoral care, both for the caring and the cared for. Part One employs the case study method as an opportunity for congregational leaders to use the resources of the course for help with their contexts. Part Two delves into a contextual/theological approach to the techniques of chaplaincy, giving students an opportunity to apply new skills to an actual case. [Auditors With Faculty Permission]