OBLATE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY
2013-2016 CATALOG
OBLATE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY 285 Oblate Drive San Antonio, Texas 78216-6693 Tel (210) 341-1366 Fax (210) 341-4519 www.ost.edu
The statements set forth in this catalog are for informational purposes only and are not intended as a basis of a contract between a student and Oblate School of Theology. The School reserves the right to change provisions in this catalog without notice. Any student whose program is interrupted by an absence of one year or more may incur the obligation of meeting changed requirements as printed in the current catalog.
Student Nondiscriminatory Policy The Oblate School of Theology does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, handicap, gender or age in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, or other school-administered programs. PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Oblate School of Theology enjoys a long and a rich history. Founded as a tiny school on a barren hill outside the city of San Antonio more 100 years ago, it has grown up along with the city. Today the San Antonio metropolitan area numbers over two million persons and Oblate School of Theology sits near its geographic center. Like San Antonio, it too has grown. A hundred years ago Oblate School of Theology was a small enclosed Scholasticate training only Oblate seminarians. Today it is one of the 10 largest Catholic graduate schools of theology in the United States. It still trains seminarians for ordination, more in fact than it ever did before, but those seminarians today come from all over Texas, from all over the United States, and various foreign countries, and they share classrooms with lay students who too are preparing for ministry in the Church. However, inside all of this growth and change, Oblate School of Theology has remained solidly rooted in its original mission. It is still concerned with reaching out in a special way to the poor; it is still concerned about creating new church life and not just in sustaining what is; it is still concerned about who is falling through the cracks in our society; and it is still concerned with giving witness to simplicity of life. The words that undergird the charism of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate also undergird the ethos of the Oblate School of Theology: We are missionaries for the poor, particularly sensitive to the struggles of those who are being excluded, all the while trying to witness to simplicity of life. In fidelity to this, along with two of its historical partners, Assumption Seminary and the Mexican American Catholic College, Oblate School of Theology is trying to develop more programs that recognize the growing Hispanic religious and cultural influence in the United States in general and in San Antonio in particular. As well, to express its firm belief in its future, Oblate School of Theology has launched an ambitious, $30 million, capital and endowment campaign. This catalog lays out how Oblate School of Theology has tried to concretize its mission in terms of the various degree and certificate programs it offers. That, of course, is an ongoing process, but the programs listed in this catalog are where 100 years of effort has brought us. We are proud of our past and confident about our future. Come join us! Yours in Christ, Fr. Ronald Rolheiser OMI President
CONTENTS GENERAL INFORMATION 6 Admissions and Registration 12 Academic/Professional Information 19 Student Life 26 Financial Information 27 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS 32 Master of Arts (Theology) 33 Master of Arts (Spirituality) 35 Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry 36 Master of Divinity 38 Certificate of Pastoral Studies 43 MA (Theology) and MDiv Dual Program 44 Baccalaureate of Sacred Theology 45 Doctor of Ministry 46 Doctor of Philosophy (Spirituality) 50 OTHER PROGRAMS 54 Pre-Theology Studies 55 Pastoral Lay Ministry 57 Lay Ministry Institute 58 Instituto de Formación Pastoral 59 Continuing Education 59 Permanent Deacon Programs 60 Hispanic Summer Program 60 Renewal Ministries 60 Oblate Renewal Center 60 Ministry to Ministers 61 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 62 Undergraduate Courses 63 Master Level Courses 67 Doctoral Courses 85 BOARD OF TRUSTEES 94 ADMINISTRATORS 95 FACULTY 96
GENERAL INFORMATION
GENERAL INFORMATION Statement of Purpose Roman Catholic Bishop, to preach Oblate School of Theology, founded Christ’s message and to serve the and sponsored by the Missionary People of God, especially the poor and Oblates of Mary Immaculate, is a marginalized. Catholic graduate and professional Oblate School of Theology was school which provides education for founded in San Antonio in 1903 the church’s mission and ministry in as the San Antonio Philosophical the world. and Theological Seminary. The The institution prepares persons for School’s initial goal and mission was pastoral ministry through academic to educate young men to serve as study and supervised practice. Oblate missionaries in Texas, New Through degree and certificate Mexico, Louisiana, Mexico and the programs the School strives to educate Philippines. and form candidates for priestly Today, Oblate School of Theology ministry as well as lay ministries. prepares men for priesthood from The School offers opportunities for many dioceses across the United professional continuing education and States and a number of religious personal spiritual renewal to those communities. Roman Catholic men serving in church and society. and women and those from other Oblate School of Theology models Christian traditions are present on and fosters collaboration in campus as the School also prepares ministry. It accomplishes its mission men and women religious as well as in cooperation with formation laity from Catholic and other Christian communities and other ecclesial and traditions for a variety of ministries. societal institutions. The early spirit and motivation of The pastoral orientation of the School the pioneering missionaries to be of requires practical and reflective service to the church in the cultural engagement with the multi-cultural, context where faith is lived and global reality of church and society. expressed is still a driving force Drawing upon Oblate School of for Oblate School of Theology. It Theology’s location and historical understands preparation for mission dedication to the Mexican-American and ministry as the actual integration presence in the Southwest, the of pastoral experience and theological learning, teaching, and research of the study. School pay particular attention to the In 1981, Oblate School of Theology diverse and rich Hispanic reality of the began the Ministry to Ministers Americas. program. The program is a four month intensive spiritual and theological History sabbatical experience for priests and The Missionary Oblates of Mary religious men and women who have Immaculate came to Texas in 1849, been in ministry for a number of at the urgent request of Texas’ first years. The Lay Ministry Institute
opened its doors in 1982, and the The Campus Instituto de Formación Pastoral in Oblate School of Theology is located 1985. These two programs prepare in San Antonio, Texas, a city of rich candidates theologically and cultural heritage. The Gayle and Tom spiritually in certificate programs for Benson Theological Center houses the pastoral lay ministry. In 1992, the business offices, classrooms, a large Oblate School of Theology assumed lecture hall. The beautiful grounds the responsibility for the Oblate including the Merium Study Garden Renewal Center (formerly Casa San provide ample space for enjoying the José). Through its facilities, the Center outdoors and finding a quiet place offers a variety of programs to respond for study and reflection. A large to the needs of the local church. swimming pool is available during the The School recognizes the many warm months of the year. ethnic groups present in the The Donald E. O’Shaughnessy Southwest and the United States Library (DEOL) is a resource as a whole, reflecting the reality of center that acquires materials in those the world church. In the Southwest, areas which relate to the curriculum understanding ministry within its and programs of Oblate School of proper cultural context is particularly Theology (OST), as well as materials relevant to the Mexican-American designed for scholarly research community and heritage. There are in theological subject fields, and distinct challenges, for example, of the organizes those materials for efficient Mexican-American in predominantly intellectual and physical retrieval. Anglo-American institutions Through the provision of its as well as those of the Anglo- collection development and database American preparing for ministry to subscriptions, DEOL provides for the predominantly Mexican-Americans. informational needs of the students, The School’s programs utilize the faculty, administration, and staff of Hispanic cultural environment of the School in matters relating to the San Antonio to learn from and to performance of their functions at OST. prepare students to minister effectively among peoples of diverse cultural To assist those it serves in obtaining backgrounds. access to informational resources which are not a part of its collection, In addition to a commitment to the the Library participates in resource- Hispanic/Latino population, Oblate sharing activities in both a local and a School of Theology has opened its national level, including the utilization doors to a diverse student population of computerized bibliographic from all over the world. The school services. also is a center where students from a number of religious denominations The Donald E. O’Shaughnessy complete a degree in theology and Library holds approximately 85,000 ministry. plus volumes in its 17,000 square-foot facility, which consists of three floors
in its west wing and three floors in its The Lebh Shomea Project entails north wing. incorporating the library holdings at The north wing consists of the main the Oblate Lebh Shomea House of entrance, the circulation desk, a Prayer in Sarita, Texas into the DEOL patron-resource center, and reading catalog. area. The second and third floors The DEOL doors are open to the local house the circulating collection. Study community as well as researchers. areas throughout the library are also These patron groups may apply for available. library privileges. The west wing of the library houses The Immaculate Conception the Periodical Reading Room that Memorial Chapel, which has seating displays about 400 scholarly and for 400 persons, stands prominently on popular journals and periodicals. This the campus. The Lourdes Grotto and floor also holds special collections Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe are that feature items such as thesis/ located on the adjoining tree-shaded dissertations of our faculty and park area. alumnae, the Loeb Classic Library, The Pat Guidon Center for Penguin Classics, and other artifact- Continuing Education houses the specific collections. Ministry to Ministers Sabbatical This wing also holds the reference Program and provides additional room that is rich in research materials housing for guests for the School. geared and maintained for the The 50,000 square-foot Oblate theology student and research scholar. Renewal Center (ORC) is a The area holds biblical commentaries, conference, workshop and retreat dictionaries, and concordances. The center that accommodates individuals Fathers’ Room houses collections or groups of up to 120. The facilities specific to the writings of the Fathers include three conference rooms, of the Church, like the Latin and smaller breakout rooms, library, Greek Migne Collections, and the classrooms and 60 bedrooms (either Sources Chretiennes. The Basement single or double occupancy) with in this wing houses religion/theology private bath. The spacious dining bound journals like Acta Apostolicae room with its bay windows framing Sedis, American Catholic Studies the beautiful tree-studded campus Journal, Aztaln: Journal of Chicano and grand foyer entrance enhance the Studies, Biblical Interpretation to sense of connectedness to the natural mention a few. surroundings. The St. Joseph’s Chapel Aside from the main library building is the Renewal Center’s main worship the DEOL houses other libraries space. The adjoining Lourdes Grotto on the campus of Oblate School of and Tepeyac Shrine has a chapel, and Theology. These libraries include the the Immaculate Conception Chapel Archives Library, Special and Rare at Oblate School of Theology is also Book Library, and an Offsite Library. available for larger groups’ worship
needs. (361) 294-5791. The new Whitley Theological Center (WTC) is located directly east of the Mexican American main building, now known as the Catholic College Benson Theological Center.. The WTC Oblate School of Theology enjoys a houses a 400-seat conference area, special relationship with the Mexican five high technology classrooms and a American Catholic College (MACC) new student lounge. A parking area is in San Antonio. Collaborative research located directly behind the WTC. into Hispanic pastoral and theological issues benefits both institutions and The Gayle and Tom Benson their students. Certain approved Theological Center (BTC) is the courses at MACC can be taken main OST administration building for graduate credit. For further which was rededicated on May information, contact MACC at 3115 24, 2013 and renamed in honor of W. Ashby Place, POB 28185, San Gayle and Tom Benson, HOMI. The Antonio, Texas, 78228. Telephone: building is referred to as the Benson (210) 732-2156; Fax: (210) 732-9072. Theological Center, or BTC. The OST Dean’s Residence Hall is the Accreditation and newest residence hall constructed on Membership the Oblate School campus for short in Professional and long term residence students, Associations guests and adjunct faculty. Oblate School of Theology was incorporated under the laws of Related Institutions the State of Texas, April 18, 1950. Lebh Shomea The School is listed by the U.S. Lebh Shomea (which means a Department of Education as an listening heart) is a House of Prayer accredited institution of higher sponsored by the Oblate Missionary of education. It is approved by the Texas Mary Immaculate located on a ranch Workforce Commission (formerly near Sarita, Texas. It provides the part of the Texas Education Agency) opportunities for retreats, a directed for the training of persons receiving reading course, and guidance in Veterans Administration benefits spiritual direction. Oblate School of under the provisions of Section 1775, Theology students may, with the Chapter 36, Title 38, United States approval of the Academic Dean Code, and by the Department of and the Director of Lebh Shomea, Homeland Security, for non-quota fulfill a limited amount of course foreign students. The School is work in spirituality at the center. authorized under Federal law to enroll For information, write or call: Lebh non-immigrant foreign students. Shomea House of Prayer, P.O. Oblate School of Theology is Box 9, Sarita, Texas, 78385-0009. accredited by: Telephone:(361) 294-5369; Fax: • Commission on Colleges of the
10 Southern Association of Colleges • Council of Southwestern and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Theological Schools Decatur, Georgia, 30033-4097; • United Colleges of San Antonio telephone 404-679-4500). • National Catholic Educational • Commission on Accrediting of Association the Association of Theological Schools in the United States • Higher Education Council of San and Canada to award the Master Antonio of Divinity, Master of Arts in • Association for Theological Field Pastoral Ministry, Master of Education Arts (Theology), Master of Arts • Midwest Association of (Spirituality), Doctor of Ministry, Theological Schools and Doctor of Philosophy (Spirituality) degrees. • National Association of Colleges and University Business Officers • Approved for a Comprehensive Distance Education Program. • American Association of Collegiate Registrars and The Commission contact information Admissions Officers is: The Commission on Accrediting of the • National Association of Foreign Association of Theological Schools in Student Advisors the United States and Canada 10 Summit Park Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15275 USA Telephone: 412-788-6505 Fax: 412-788-6510 Website: www.ats.edu Oblate School of Theology holds membership in the following professional associations:
11 noncredit theological studies and ADMISSIONS & REGISTRATION experiences in ministry. Such studies and experiences must be demonstrated General Admission to have led to knowledge and skills Requirements for equivalent to those of persons with Graduate Studies at baccalaureate degrees. The Academic Master’s Level Dean will determine the eligibility of Persons seeking admission to Oblate these special students. School of Theology should have The Admissions Committee reserves satisfactorily completed a bachelor’s to itself the right to admit or deny degree from a regionally accredited entrance to any applicant. Admission college or university. For students to graduate study does not imply from other countries the following admission to candidacy for a graduate would be accepted as equivalent: a degree. Application forms and post-secondary baccalaureate degree instructions may be obtained from awarded for academic study; a degree the Office of Admissions or on the higher than the post-secondary School’s website. The applicant’s file baccalaureate degree awarded for becomes the property of the School academic study; or for Master once an admissions decision has been of Divinity applicants educated made. in seminaries outside the United Deadlines for applications are: States or Canada, completion of all philosophical studies necessary for • June 30th for the Fall Semester admission to theological education in • November 30th for the Spring/ their home country. Winter Semester Eighteen credit hours of undergraduate • April 30th for the Summer philosophy/religious studies, including Session PL 4323 History and Method of Address all correspondence to the Christian Thought and RS 4101 Office of Admissions Reading the Bible, or their approved 285 Oblate Drive equivalents, are required before San Antonio, TX 78216 beginning graduate theology. E-mail address: [email protected] Admission for priestly ordination in the Roman Catholic Church is Degree-Seeking governed by the requirements of the Students applying for degree- Program of Priestly Formation as well seeking status at the master’s and as those of Oblate School of Theology. doctoral level must fulfill the general A limited number of mature applicants requirements for admission to the who do not hold an undergraduate Oblate School of Theology and any degree may, unless applying for the special requirements for admission to Master of Arts degree, be admitted to a particular degree program. the school on the basis of extensive
12 General Requirements to the Office of Admissions. 1. Application For those students who have been Complete the application form with accepted into formal collaborative signature and date and return it with formation programs, only one the application fee in the form of a recommendation attesting to the check or money order. This fee is applicant’s academic ability is non-refundable. required. That recommendation 2. Official Transcripts must be from the Director of the Submit official transcripts from all Formation Program. colleges attended, undergraduate 6. Miller Analogies Test and graduate, reflecting degree(s) Scores from entrance tests are received from an accredited U.S. used to advise students in course institution or equivalent training at selections for their degree program. an institution outside the U.S. sent Native English language applicants directly to OST. Student copies are are required to take the Miller not acceptable. Analogies Test (MAT) and provide 3. Goals and Objectives an official copy of the score. A statement regarding the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) applicant’s intent for pursuing scores received within the last 5 graduate theology years will be accepted in lieu of 4. Biographical Information the MAT score. Applicants with an A brief biography giving the genesis earned Master’s degree are exempt of commitment to theological from the MAT or GRE. If necessary, studies official score reports from the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) or Graduate 5. Recommendations Records Examination (GRE) must Three recommendations, on forms be sent directly to the Office of provided by Oblate, attesting to Admissions. the candidate’s religious, moral, and intellectual qualifications for The Oblate School of Theology ministry: code numbers are: 2226 for the a) One from someone in MAT and 2469 for the GRE. Note authority within the applicant’s that these OST code numbers denominational structures are normally not available in the verifying his/her good standing; information booklet or at the test b) One from someone who centers. is qualified to attest to the 7. Proof of Meningitis Vaccine applicant’s academic ability; (for new students under age 30) c) One from any person of the Texas State law (SB 1107) mandates applicant’s choosing. that all entering students under The applicant gives the the age of 30 provide a certificate recommendation form to the signed by a health care provider recommender, who sends it directly or an official immunization record
13 verifying that a student has been General Admission vaccinated against bacterial Requirements meningitis, or has received a booster for Graduate Studies at during the five years preceding Doctoral Level admission to the School. Persons seeking admission to Oblate Students that do not submit the School of Theology should have proper medical documentation or satisfactorily completed a Master’s proof of being vaccinated will not degree from a regionally accredited be able to register for classes. The college or university. Applicants for vaccine must be administered within the Doctor of Ministry should have a the past five years and at least 10 Master of Divinity; applicants for the days before the first day of classes. Doctor of Philosophy (Spirituality) If any of the following applies, the should have a Master’s degree in student is not required to submit Divinity, Theology, or Spirituality. proof of the Meningitis vaccine: Deadlines for applications are: • If you are taking only online • June 30th for the Fall Semester courses. • November 30th for the Spring/ • If you are over the age of 30. Winter Semester 8. Grade Release Form • April 30th for the Summer For those students who have been Session accepted into formal collaborative Address all correspondence to the formation programs, a Grade Office of Admissions Release Form is required. By filling 285 Oblate Drive out the form, a student authorizes San Antonio, TX 78216 the release of Oblate transcripts, cumulative record and/or grades E-mail address: [email protected] at the end of each semester to the person(s) or agency to keep them Doctoral Requirements informed of the student’s academic Students applying for doctoral level progress. must fulfill the general requirements for admission to the Oblate School 9. Consultation with the director of of Theology and any special the degree program for which the requirements for admission to a applicant is applying is encouraged. particular degree program.
General Requirements 1. Application Complete the application form with signature and date and return it with the application fee in the form of a check or money order. This fee is non-refundable.
14 2. Official Transcripts meningitis, or has received a booster Submit official transcripts from all during the five years preceding colleges attended, undergraduate admission to the School. and graduate, reflecting degree(s) Students that do not submit the received from an accredited U.S. proper medical documentation or institution or equivalent training at proof of being vaccinated will not an institution outside the U.S. sent be able to register for classes. The directly to OST. Student copies are vaccine must be administered within not acceptable. the past five years and at least 10 3. Recommendations days before the first day of classes. Three recommendations, on forms If any of the following applies, the provided by Oblate, attesting to student is not required to submit the candidate’s religious, moral, proof of the Meningitis vaccine: and intellectual qualifications for ministry: • If you are taking only online courses. a) One from someone in authority within the applicant’s • If you are over the age of 30. denominational structures verifying 6. Consultation with the director of his/her good standing (DMin only); the degree program for which the b)One from someone who is applicant is applying is encouraged. qualified to attest to the applicant’s academic ability (two for PhD); Doctor of Ministry In additional to the general c)One from any person of the requirements listed above, those applicant’s choosing. applying for admission into the Doctor The applicant gives the of Ministry program must complete recommendation form to the the following. recommender, who sends it directly to 1. Essay the School. A six to ten page essay 4. Curriculum Vitae 2. Approbation/Endorsement A detailed professional curriculum Ecclesiastical approbation/ vitae including a list of all denominational endorsement is professional publications required when appropriate. If 5. Proof of Meningitis Vaccine married, spousal approval (i.e., a (for new students under age 30) letter acknowledging the time and Texas State law (SB 1107) mandates financial commitment involved) is that all entering students under required. the age of 30 provide a certificate 3. Specialization requirements: signed by a health care provider a) Spiritual Formation or an official immunization record An annotated bibliography of verifying that a student has been works that have been read in the vaccinated against bacterial
15 past three years that are germane to personal funds. Documentation of this area scholarships and fellowships may b) Hispanic/Latino Ministry be in the form of an official award Spanish competency with the letter from the school or sponsoring ability to comprehend, speak, read, agency. and write; also, experience in Documentation of personal or Hispanic ministry. family funds should be on bank letterhead stationary that must Admission of include the following information: International Students • Address and phone number An international student is a student of the issuing bank who has citizenship in a country other than the United States. International • Name and signature of the students should apply for admission issuing bank official no later than 60 days prior to the • Indication on how long the beginning of the semester in which the account exists student plans to attend to ensure no • Current balance and average delay in acceptance and registration. balance over a minimum of In additional to the general the previous six months requirements listed above, • Indication of the type of international students applying for currency (Euro, Peso, U.S. admission to Oblate must complete the Dollar, etc.) following. Documentation of financial 1. Financial Support Documentation support should be issued preferably Requirements in English. Bank letters will Oblate School of Theology verifies be accepted if not older than that the international applicant has six months at the time of the adequate funds to cover all expenses application. Funds invested in the while studying in the U.S. These stock market cannot be accepted expenses include tuition, fees, as a dependable source due to the books, supplies, living expenses, possible fluctuation of their value. health insurance, and miscellaneous expenses (travel, recreation, 2. Immigration Documents toiletries, telephone, etc.). The Non-U.S. citizen applicants must required funds should cover at least submit a copy of any and all the student’s first year of study. The documents issued by the U.S. student or sponsor must provide Citizenship and Immigration adequate funding for subsequent Services for entry into the United semesters. States of America as a non- immigrant student, religious worker Funds may come from family, or permanent resident. These scholarships, fellowships, documents include: a copy of the sponsoring agencies and/or
16 applicant’s current passport and and examinations) in Spanish (or in U.S. VISA. These copies must be another language), in accord with received before the applicants begin the capabilities of the instructor, studies. especially in the initial year of 3. Test of English as a Foreign study at Oblate. Nearly all full-time Language (TOEFL) faculty members read and/or write Non-native English speakers Spanish. must develop the capacity to do Non-U.S. citizens whose native theological studies and to minister language is not English are exempt in English. It is recommended that from the MAT; however, the students whose native language is foreign-born student in Master not English undertake intensive level courses must present a score English language studies before of at least 71 on the Test of English admission to Oblate School of as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Theology. They must present the to begin full-time studies. The official results of the Test of English foreign-born student in Doctoral as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) level courses must present a score before admission to the School. of at least 79 on the Test of English To be an effective leader of as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) ministry in the United States, a to begin full-time studies. TOEFL sufficient level of English must be scores older than two years are not achieved. This level includes being accepted. Non-U.S. citizens, whose able to celebrate the liturgy, preach, native language is not English, but and converse in a pastoral setting who have completed their 4 years in English. Because the pastoral of undergraduate studies at a U.S. leader must relate with and be a institution, should complete the part of the U.S. Church and society, MAT. Test results must be sent the pastoral leader must be able directly to the school. to communicate well in oral and The Oblate School of Theology written English. code numbers is 6527 for the The further development of TOEFL. Note that these OST code English language proficiency for numbers are normally not available seminarians will be monitored in the information booklet or at the during the seminarian evaluations. test centers. Suitable proficiency must be demonstrated before admission to Transient Candidacy. Students in good standing at a recognized graduate school who wish It is the policy of Oblate School to enroll for a maximum of four (4) of Theology that students whose courses and who plan to continue at native language is not English are the school of original admission may permitted to do at least some of be admitted as transient students. their course requirements (papers Enrolling in additional course work
17 beyond the twelve hours will require Change of Status application for a change of status. To change status from non-degree Students must fill out a formal seeking to degree seeking, the student application for admission and submit must meet the requirements for an official transcript from the school admission to the program and submit of original admission. the formal application to the Registrar.
Non-Degree Seeking Matriculation If non-degree seeking, an applicant At the beginning of their first semester to Oblate School of Theology must at Oblate, all admitted students pay submit: a Matriculation Fee. A matriculated a) Evidence of an earned student is one who is both admitted Baccalaureate degree from an and enrolled at Oblate. The accredited institution of higher Matriculation Fee is a one-time fee learning charged to all newly admitted, degree b) Official transcripts from each seeking students during a student’s college or university previously first semester. attended. These transcripts must be Non-degree seeking students and mailed directly from the college or transient students will not be charged a university to the Registrar’s Office. matriculation fee. Non-degree-seeking students may register for a cumulative total of no Registration more than four (4) courses of course Registration occurs before the end of work under the normal grading the previous semester for all returning system. Non-degree seeking students students. Registration for new students are expected to conform to graduate is scheduled the week before classes standards of scholarship. In some begin. The Registrar announces cases, credit hours taken under a non- procedures for registration. Late degree seeking status and under the registration is handled through the normal grading system may be applied Registrar and is charged an additional toward a degree if a student later gains fee. A student will not be allowed to admission into the Oblate School attend classes in another semester if of Theology. Such credits will be there is outstanding tuition or fees. evaluated as though they were transfer The students with outstanding credits from another institution and material will be charged a $100.00 must be approved by the Program administrative fee at the beginning of Director and/or the Dean. the second semester/session and each Non-degree seeking students may not subsequent semester/session until the be eligible for some forms of financial material is received. For valid reasons aid. the fee may be waived at the discretion of the Director of Admissions. If all admissions materials are not
18 submitted by the first class day of the MDiv and MAPM students are second semester, the student’s name expected to maintain a cumulative will be purged from class rosters and 2.5 GPA. MA students must maintain the student will not be able to attend a 3.0 GPA. A student who does not classes. maintain the required cumulative GPA will be placed on academic probation until the cumulative GPA meets the ACADEMIC/PROFESSIONAL standard for their degree. A student INFORMATION on academic probation who fails to maintain the minimum semester GPA Academic Advising for two semesters will be suspended Students are assigned a faculty for a semester. Such a student may member for academic advising. The apply for readmission. Office of the Academic Dean offers The situation of international students information for various services with an F1 status attending OST and available to students. who have been placed on suspension The Academic Dean oversees the will be reviewed on an individual curriculum and course sequencing. basis. The Program Director of each degree After readmission, failure to maintain advises the students in that degree the grade point average for the program. Persons who are not in semester will result in dismissal from a degree program may register for the degree program and the School. courses with the approval of the Maintaining the minimum cumulative Registrar. Students are encouraged GPA of 2.5 or the 3.0 for the MA to consult with faculty regarding is required for both candidacy and specialization or other concerns graduation. Being removed from related to the courses. Exemption academic probation may not satisfy from prerequisites for a given course all of the degree requirements, and may be granted only by the Program is not a guarantee of candidacy for Director, after consultation with the graduation. Academic Dean and course instructor. More details can be found in the OST Academic Probation Student Handbook. Students are expected to maintain Part-Time Students: Probation will the grade point average required not be levied until four courses have for graduation under their degree been completed. The part-time student program. If at the end of a grading will be notified after one course of period, the student’s cumulative grade the insufficiency and of possible point average falls below the grade probation. point average required for the degree, the student is placed on academic Academic Year probation. The Academic year is divided into two semesters of approximately fifteen
19 (15) weeks each. An Intersession is registered. Professors may establish scheduled in January and the Summer specific attendance requirements for Session is held in June. their classes. The student needs to notify the professor of his absence Auditing Courses before the class time. It is presumed With the permission of the professor that a student has withdrawn from of the course and the Dean, students the class if, without the approval of may audit certain courses. Auditors the professor, more than 3 classes should normally possess a bachelor’s are missed in succession. Repeated degree. Auditors are expected to absences during a semester may attend class sessions and keep up result in a failing grade. Withdrawal with the assigned readings but are not from courses must be processed required to take examinations or fulfill and documented in the Registrar’s other course requirements. Courses Office (see below: Withdrawal from taken for audit cannot be counted for Courses). credit at a later time. Audit courses are entered on the transcript but Core Course Challenge are not counted as fulfilling degree Oblate School of Theology students requirements. Tuition and registration who hold an undergraduate degree as rates for auditing courses are found described in the general admissions in the current list of education costs. section of the catalog and have had Certain courses are closed to auditors. course work appropriate to the core Certain courses may also be taken for (6000 level) courses may apply to Enrichment which does not provide a challenge these courses for credit. record of the student’s participation. The process for challenging a core More information on Enrichment course is found in the OST Student is available from the Office of Handbook. A course challenge should Admissions. ordinarily be completed before the semester in which the course is taught. Candidacy Students must apply for candidacy Course Waivers according to their respective degree A student’s program director may, plan. The granting of candidacy with the approval of the Academic indicates that a student is making Dean, and after consultation with the acceptable progress toward the instructor and the academic advisor, completion of a degree. Refer to allow a student to waive a required the individual degree program course, if the student can present section of this catalog for candidacy evidence of having mastery of the requirements. course material gained by previous academic course work, private study Class Attendance or life experience. A waiver of a Students are expected to attend all graduate course permits the student to meetings of a class for which they are enroll in graduate courses, for which
20 the waived course is a prerequisite, but faculty member and the approval by does not award credit for the waived the Academic Dean. Special studies course or reduce the number of hours courses shall be offered in conformity required for the degree being sought. with the normal academic calendar. Another graduate course must be taken to earn the credit hours of the Grades* Grade points waived course. A Outstanding 4.0 A course waiver challenge should A- Very Good 3.5 be completed before the semester B Good 3.0 in which the course is taught. The deadline is the final registration date B- Adequate 2.5 for the semester. C Pass 2.0 When a prerequisite undergraduate C- Minimal Pass 1.5 course is waived, the student does D Inferior and not need to earn undergraduate credit Non-transferable 1.0 hours as a substitution. F Fail 0.0 Directed Reading Courses (If a grade of “D” or “F” is received Required Course - Normally, required in a core course (as specified in the courses are not taken as directed degree plan), the course must be readings. However, a student may take repeated. The grade of “F” does not a required course as a directed reading earn credit hours.) course under the supervision of an appropriate faculty member. This P Passing option is permitted only when it is not W Withdrawal reasonably possible for the student (does not affect the grade to take the course when regularly point average) offered. Taking a course in such a WP Withdrawal Passing manner requires the consent of the (does not affect the grade student’s program director, academic point average) advisor and the faculty member WF Withdrawal Failing concerned, and must be approved by (does affect the grade point the Academic Dean. Such directed average) readings courses shall be offered within the normal academic semester. IP In Progress (Project/Theses/ Special Studies – A faculty member Dissertation is continuing) may offer an elective to a student I Incomplete as a directed readings course on a (Work must be completed topic relevant to the OST curriculum by the specified deadline but not available as a current course in the published calendar. offering. Taking a course in such a An “I” automatically manner requires the consent of the becomes an “F” if the work
21 has not been completed by courses and are listed on the OST the deadline.) transcript. The academic advisor and *Effective January 2011 Program Director must approve the course selection. Graduation Occasionally candidates with a Formal graduation is held in May concentration in spirituality have and diplomas will be awarded at the opportunity of taking a limited that time. All graduating students number of credit hours at Lebh are encouraged to attend their Shomea House of Prayer as a directed commencement exercises. Students readings course. Permission is granted pay a graduation fee whether in individual cases by the Academic or not they are present for the Dean and with the approval of the commencement exercises. If a student Director of Lebh Shomea. finishes all class work in summer or fall and requires verification of Spiritual Formation and completion of studies, the Registrar Ministerial Leadership will provide the student with a copy Retention in professional degree of the permanent record and a letter programs (MDiv and MA in Pastoral verifying completion of studies, but Ministry) is OST’s confirmation the diploma will not be awarded until that the student is making desirable graduation in May. progress toward the fulfillment of all degree requirements, including those Off-Campus Study related to spiritual formation and Students who have been admitted to ministerial leadership. Each semester OST, and who want to transfer elective the faculty evaluates currently enrolled credit from another graduate theology MDiv and MAPM students. Questions school must obtain written permission or concerns, if any, are conveyed from their academic advisor. Students to the students, and, as deemed complete the Request to Take appropriate, others contributing to the Courses from Another Institution to student’s formation. Be Transferred to OST Form before Evidence of suitable spiritual attending the course(s). Students may formation and of readiness for only transfer 6 hours of elective credit ministerial leadership can vary from back to OST. one student to another. The kinds Oblate School of Theology is a of personal qualities or dispositions member of the United Colleges of San which serve as guidelines for the Antonio along with Our Lady of the faculty include: Lake University, St. Mary’s University • A lived faith and the University of the Incarnate Word. OST students may register for • Willingness to learn and grow courses at any of these institutions • A positive, hopeful attitude through the OST Registrar’s Office. • Patience and steadfastness These are not considered transfer
22 • Generosity time pre-theology student in language • Tolerance and courtesy studies carries a minimum of 12 undergraduate credit hours. Students • Moral courage in their internship year are considered • Honesty to self and others full-time students. • Steadiness in the maintenance of Part-time students are those who are priorities accepted in a degree program and carry less than the minimum for full- • Good health time students during a semester. All • Creativity credit students not pursuing a degree • Good judgment are considered part-time students. • Sensitivity in listening and The minimum full-time credit load responding for MDiv students is currently 9 credit hours. To complete the MDiv • Helpfulness program in four years, the credit load • Dependability is approximately 14 credit hours per • Communicativeness in varying semester. settings Full-time credit load for a 2-week • Cooperativeness regarding peers summer/winter term is normally 3 and authorities hours. Full-time credit load for a summer term longer than 3 weeks is • Accountability/sensitivity to the normally 6 hours. faith tradition • Social and cultural sensitivity Students Receiving V.A. Educational Benefits Status of Students Certification for VA Educational Full-time students are those who Benefits is available through the are accepted in a degree program Registrar’s Office. and are pursuing a course load Satisfactory Progress approved by the Program Director. A student who is receiving VA The full-time DMin/PhD student educational benefits must maintain a normally carries three credit hours cumulative grade point average of 2.5 per session. The full-time MDiv to be considered making satisfactory student normally carries a minimum progress, except for the MA which of 9 credit hours. The full-time MA requires a 3.0 grade point average. student carries a minimum of 8 credit hours. The full-time MAPM Each of the degree programs has a student carries a minimum of 8 credit candidacy application, after about a hours. The full-time pre-theology third of the credit hours have been student in philosophy and/or religious successfully completed. Candidacy studies carries a minimum of 12 is granted by the faculty through undergraduate credit hours. The full- the Admissions Committee. It is a confirmation that the student is
23 progressing successfully through the transcripts must be made in writing degree program. with a signature. Unsatisfactory Progress Student records at Oblate School of If a student on probation fails Theology are subject to provisions to achieve the appropriate GPA of the Family Education Rights and during the following semester or Privacy Act of 1974 (PL 93-380). summer session, then at end of the Prescribed educational records of probationary period the student shall students are open to their inspection be reported to the VA as making upon request. Every effort is made unsatisfactory progress. to safeguard the student records. A student who has been suspended for A written Release of Information one semester and upon readmission Form is signed by the students in a does not maintain the satisfactory collaborating Formation Program to GPA at the end of the session shall release their grades to the Formation be reported to the VA as making Director of their Community. unsatisfactory progress and be No transcripts are issued during excluded from the School. registration week or the first week of classes. Students with Learning Disabilities Transfer of Credit at Upon request, and within reasonable Graduate Level limits, alternative arrangements may It is the prerogative of the School be worked out between an instructor to accept courses in transfer or for and student regarding assignments, equivalency. Normally, graduate examinations, etc., to assist a student credits earned more than 10 years in his/her coursework. A student with prior to admission will not be learning disabilities should notify the transferred. The director(s) of the instructor at the beginning of a course program, with the student, initiate and in advance when assistance may the process for a course transfer and be needed. submit transcripts to the Registrar’s Office. The student’s program Transcripts and Records director(s) reviews the documentation The Registrar issues one single and makes the necessary decision copy of the official transcript per regarding credit and course academic year without charge. Fees equivalencies. Individual professors are charged for expedited same-day are consulted in the process where service, or multiple transcript copies appropriate. The School stipulates the within an academic year. The fee for maximum hours acceptable in transfer transcripts is found online in Financial according to ATS and SACS. Information. Transcripts will be issued The student is normally responsible only for current and former students for submitting catalogs, syllabi, who are free of financial and other and course descriptions related to obligations to the School. Requests for documentation for equivalencies and
24 transfer of credit. Pastoral Ministry or MDiv: the Normally, grades of “C” or better recommendation from someone in are accepted for undergraduate the denominational structure must credit. Grades of “B” or better are verify suitability for studies oriented normally accepted for graduate credit. toward professional ministry. (See also Transferred grades do not count the section on Continuation Outside toward the OST GPA. Priestly Formation.) 3. Interview with the director of the Transferring from one program for which admission is OST Master Program to being sought. another Master Program The Admissions Committee, after Students transferring from one consultation with the faculty, will Master’s Program to another Master’s decide on the application. Program must apply to be admitted. The transfer application is available Withdrawal from Courses in the Registrar’s office. All transfer A withdrawal from a course(s) within applicants must provide the following the first week of a regular semester documentation: will not be noted on the permanent 1. Updated statement of Goals and record. After that period there is a fee Objectives. per course change; withdrawals are 2. Three recommendations, on forms indicated on the transcript. Students provided by the School, attesting may withdraw from or change status to the candidate’s religious, moral in courses prior to the mid-semester and intellectual qualifications for break of the semester. ministry: Withdrawal from a course must be in a. one from someone in authority writing on the Add/Drop Form with within the applicant’s the signature of the academic advisor denominational structures and Program Director. A withdrawal verifying their good standing; after the mid-semester break is an automatic WF. (For an explanation of b. one from someone who is WP and WF see the Catalog section qualified to attest to the on Grades.) Refund for tuition is pro- applicant’s academic ability; rated according to the schedule found c. one from any person of the in the Financial Information section of applicant’s choosing. the Catalog. For the withdrawal policy of the DMin program, see the Catalog Transfer from MDiv to MA in section for the Doctor of Ministry. Pastoral Ministry or MA degree: the recommendation from someone in the denominational structure must be from the former Formation Director, if applicable. Transfer from MA to MA in 25 Social events include the STUDENT LIFE Thanksgiving and Christmas luncheons, seasonal and multicultural celebrations and the receptions Candidates for ministry are challenged associated with the opening of school to integrate the various aspects of and with graduation. Students plan their life and educational experience sports activities on a regular basis. in developing pastoral and ministe- The Coordinator of Student Activities rial theology. The School is non- plans various events with students and residential, but forming community faculty. among students, faculty and staff is of primary importance. The community Students in professional degree of persons forming Oblate School of programs (Master of Divinity and Theology believes that it is essential Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry) to express and nourish its faith by cel- enter formation seminars and field ebrating communal prayer regularly. education programs that offer The social interaction of the various experiential learning opportunities, formation communities is impor- personal integration of studies, tant and the fact that it is possible to and spiritual development. These know all persons on campus by name formational and experiential elements contributes greatly to the warmth of present students with opportunities to relationships that seem to grow rather demonstrate the capacity for spiritual easily. and ministerial leadership required Each Tuesday of the semester there for these degrees. Retreats and prayer is a celebration of the Eucharist or experiences are offered regularly. other communal worship service. Oblate School of Theology attracts The Worship Committee, made up students from the San Antonio area of students and faculty, prepares the and surrounding states and dioceses liturgies to reflect the significance and includes persons interested in of the season or feast and the School ordained and lay ministry. Men and community is invited to share in the women students attend from many service. This prayer time develops religious orders and from dioceses to parallel the awareness of the throughout the United States and importance of the prayer life of Mexico; from denominations and the community and the growing parishes both Catholic and non- linguistic and musical abilities of the Catholic; and are representative of participants. A Sunday Liturgy is held a multi-cultural environment. In in the Chapel and is open to the public addition, Oblate School has students as well as to the students. To enhance on campus from other theological the community experience, a luncheon schools in Texas who use the is served on Tuesdays following the O’Shaughnessy Library and attend liturgy so that students, faculty and classes. OST actively seeks to have a staff have an opportunity to share at a diverse student population of diocesan personal and social level. and religious seminarians, men and
26 women religious, lay men and women, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Catholics as well as Christians of other or online using one of the credit traditions, from diverse cultures and cards just mentioned. All checks diverse traditions, where theological should be made payable to Oblate study may be done in the fullest School of Theology. Payments possible context of Church. The made by mail should be sent population of the school reflects the to the attention of the Business spirit of Vatican II in its ecumenical Office. Returned checks are dimension and its involvement of the subject to a $35.00 processing fee. laity. The richness of the educational 2. Audit and Enrichment tuition experience is enhanced by the variety and fees are also payable in full of backgrounds and the breadth of at the time of registration or no interest among our students. later than the first scheduled class Catholic lay men and women are an meeting. important part of the student body. 3. Students will not be considered These students are largely from registered for courses unless parish communities in and around financial arrangements have San Antonio. A large segment of the been made. Failure to comply School’s population is seminarians with 1 and 2 above could result who reside with or are members of the in being dropped from class(es). following affiliated institutions and/or Two alternative methods of religious orders. meeting financial obligations are available to the student. However, pre-arrangements must FINANCIAL INFORMATION be made with the Vice President for Finance prior to invoicing. Payment Policies a) During the Fall and Spring 1. All accounts must be paid in semester, tuition and fees immediately after registration. can be divided into 3 equal Invoices may be viewed instantly, payments over the course of upon registration, from your each semester. The total amount student portal accounts. Course must be paid in full prior to the changes/modifications will end of the respective semester. be reflected in your accounts b) During the summer session, approximately one week after the 50% is due upon registration with add/drop date and may be settled the balance due within 15 days. at the Business Office. If alternate financial arrangements are needed 4. Eligible veterans should contact they must be made with the Vice the Veteran’s Coordinator in the President for Finance at the time Registrar’s Office for information of registration. Payment may be and assistance in completing made in person by check, cash, necessary paperwork. Veterans and active duty personnel are
27 subject to the same payment Withdrawal after the 3rd week of the conditions as other students. course…………………...….no refund 5. Students who fail to adhere to the Summer/Intersession Session OST policy for payment may be Refund Policy institutionally withdrawn from Withdrawal during 1st and 2nd class of class(es) and will not be permitted the course………...…...... 100% refund to register for another semester or Withdrawal during 3rd and 4th class of session until the account has been the course………..…….....75% refund cleared. Report cards, transcripts, th th and diplomas are not issued to Withdrawal during 5 and 6 class of students who have not met all the course………………...50% refund financial obligations to OST. Withdrawal after the 6th class of the 6. Students must clear all financial course………………………no refund obligations each semester. Doctor of Ministry Students cannot register for a Refund Policy new semester until payment is Withdrawal during 1st and 2nd class of made and balances cleared. All the course…………….....100% refund outstanding balances are subject Withdrawal during 3rd and 4th class of to a one and one-half percent the course………………...75% refund (1.5%) finance charge on all unpaid balances. Withdrawal during 5th and 6th class of the course………………...50% refund Refund Policy Withdrawal after the 6th class of the To cancel a registration or to withdraw course………………………no refund from the School at any time other than the close of a semester, a Financial Aid Information student is required to complete the necessary form. Discontinuance of Tuition Assistance class attendance does not constitute Program an official withdrawal and refunds Oblate School of Theology serves will not be made on the basis of such students who are primarily interested action. In such instances, the student in Church ministry. Therefore, the will remain responsible for the full School endeavors to control costs as amount of the account. much as possible as well as support a Fall/Spring Semesters strong educational program. Generous Refund Policy support by the Missionary Oblates Withdrawal during the 1st week of the of the United States enables the course……………..….…100% refund School to maintain lower tuition rates. Withdrawal during the 2nd week of the The Oblate School offers Tuition course………………...... 75% refund Assistance each semester for those students that demonstrate a financial rd Withdrawal during the 3 week of the need and qualify by being enrolled at course………………….....50% refund 28 least half time in a degree program. saving and loan associations and The student is required to complete an credit unions. The student must be application provided in the Finance enrolled at least half time. Information office, and submit the application is available from the Finance Office before Add/Drop date each semester. or the Oblate School of Theology The student must attach a recent Form website located at www.ost.edu. While 1040 tax filing with the application, completing the FAFSA enter as first and show an above average GPA to be choice federal school code: 003595 considered by the Tuition Assistance for Oblate School of Theology. Upon Review Committee. The Committee completion, a student will receive a will only consider assistance for up to Student Aid Report and a complete one-third of the tuition. Each student SAR/ISIR will electronically be that is awarded Tuition Assistance delivered to the school. If a student is will be contacted by mail. Tuition selected for verification, the student Assistance must be applied directly must provide the financial information to the student account for the current requested, and complete a signed semester, money does not change verification form. The student is hands. responsible for locating and obtaining Oblate School of Theology offers a lender and arranging for the loan. very limited financial assistance Repayment of a federal loan is the through the School’s own resources. students’ responsibility and usually Institutional financial assistance must begins six months after leaving the be re-applied for each semester. school. Additional information may be requested from the Financial Aid Financial Aid Coordinator in the Finance Office. Federally Insured Family Education Loan Program - The Oblate School of Satisfactory Academic Theology participates in the Federal Progress Policy for Family Education program for U.S. Graduate Students Citizens and Eligible Non-citizens. A Receiving Financial Aid student may apply for a loan through When students accept financial various lending agencies. The student aid, they also accept responsibility will complete the FAFSA application, for making Satisfactory Academic (Federal Application Financial Student Progress (SAP). This policy is Aid) with the U.S. Department of intended to help Oblate School of Education electronically at www.fafsa. Theology students understand the ed.gov. The student will be required to requirements for satisfactory academic provide pertinent information required progress associated with receiving by the Federal Government to approve financial assistance. each student for Financial Aid. Federal and State regulations Federal Stafford Loans - subsidized explicitly state that OST must monitor and unsubsidized - are available from SAP, which is monitored through a commercial lending agencies: banks, qualitative component which includes
29 academic achievement (i.e., grades) following types of credit will count as and a quantitative component which well: includes credit hours as well as the 1. transfer credits or hours number of terms that students have completed at another school and been enrolled. accepted for credit at OST, These criteria are set by OST in 2. in progress (IP) grade will be order to maintain a high standard of posted for a thesis, dissertation or student excellence and success. State research project until the thesis, and Federal regulations require that dissertation or research project the SAP Policy must be as strict or has been completed and approved stringent than the OST Academic by the thesis/dissertation Progress policy. committee, Graduate students in the MA 3. an incomplete grade issued for a (Theology) and MA (Spirituality) class in which a student has not programs must maintain a minimum completed the necessary course cumulative GPA of 3.0. Graduate work, students in the PhD, MDIV and 4. withdrawal, that is, when students MAPM programs must maintain a withdraw from a course after the minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. If a add/drop deadline, and student’s cumulative GPA falls below 5. repeat courses taken by students. the minimum standard, financial Non-credit (NC) and audited (AU) aid will be cancelled immediately. courses do not count towards the Further, financial aid will be cancelled calculation of attempted hours. immediately for any student who is The OST Financial Aid Office will suspended or dismissed. notify students of their failure to meet Each semester (fall, spring, and the standards of this policy. Students summer) a graduate student must earn are responsible for knowing their own a minimum of 75% of the attempted status, whether or not they receive credit hours registered for at the end of notification from the Financial Aid the add/drop date (please check with Office. Students who fail to meet the the registrar’s office each semester standard of this policy may reestablish for the official add/drop date. This their financial aid eligibility by doing calculation is performed by dividing the following: students can earn the the number of credit hours earned by number of credit hours for which they the number of credit hours attempted. are deficient or improve their GPA Graduate students must enroll in at without financial aid (these credit least 3 credit hours per semester. hours may be earned at OST or they In compliance with federal may be earned at another institution regulations, the following procedures and transferred to OST for any term will be used in evaluating earned after the deficiency occurs). Students credits. In addition to the hours should get prior approval from the completed for a letter grade, the Registrar’s Office to ensure that
30 courses taken at another institution receive scholarship funding. Below are will be accepted. After the deficiency a few scholarships. or extenuating circumstance is The Pat Guidon Scholarship is an resolved, the student must submit a annual scholarship granted to a student written appeal requesting the Financial from the Lay Ministry Institute to Aid Office to review their eligibility to continue study in the MA in Pastoral receive financial aid. Ministry program. This is a full tuition Appeals must include a detailed scholarship covering tuition for all description of the extenuating graduate courses required for the MA in circumstances that occurred during the Pastoral Ministry. It is named in honor semester in which the student failed to of Fr. Pat Guidon, OMI, who offered meet this policy. The appeal must also constant support to the lay ministry include all necessary documentation programs at Oblate School of Theology to support the existence of the during his tenure as President of OST. circumstances described and evidence His energy and vision have contributed that the circumstances have been significantly to the present Lay resolved. It must also describe a plan Ministry Institute and MA programs at for ensuring satisfactory academic Oblate School of Theology. performance in the coming academic The Mildred Whalen Scholarship term. Events and circumstances that is an annual scholarship granted to merit an appeal are personal or family students accepted into any degree emergency, unanticipated, serious at Oblate School of Theology. This medical difficulty (excluding chronic scholarship is competitive and based conditions – students are responsible on pastoral and academic potential. for properly balancing work with Determination is made by the School’s known chronic conditions), and/or Scholarship Committee. Up to $50,000 serious psychological difficulty. in scholarships may be awarded per Students seeking to reestablish academic year covering tuition for financial aid eligibility will remain graduate courses. ineligible to receive financial The Lewis Family Scholarship is assistance or deferment of payment an annual scholarship granted to a until the appeal process is complete student accepted into any degree and a decision has been made by the at Oblate School of Theology. This Financial Aid Office. Students in this scholarship is competitive and based position should be prepared to pay on pastoral and academic potential. tuition, fees, and other educational Determination is made by the School’s expenses until they have been Scholarship Committee. Up to $2,300 approved to receive financial aid in scholarships may be awarded per again. academic year. Scholarships For more information on these and Oblate School of Theology offers other scholarships see the OST Student opportunities for qualifying students to Handbook and the Finance Office.
31 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
32 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS Admission Requirements Master of Arts See section on General Admission (Theology) Requirements for Graduate Studies at Master’s Level. Note that for the MA The Master of Arts degree in Theology Degree there is no exception to the provides a professional enriching requirement of having a bachelor’s experience in theological research degree. in the context of Oblate School of Theology’s attention to evangelization Degree Requirements and ministry in multi-cultural, 1. The candidate must complete collaborative, and ecumenically 36 credit hours in the areas of conscious environments. The degree Cultural and Historical Studies, is primarily an academic degree to Scriptural Studies, Systematic prepare students for research at the Theology, Moral Theology, doctoral level or for teaching at the Sacramental Theology, or secondary or college levels. Spirituality. Not more than 12 credit hours of graduate studies Goal completed in other graduate Preparation of candidates for ongoing schools may be transferred. scholarly research and publishing that Normally credits earned more is suitable for doctoral study or for than ten years prior to admission teaching at the secondary or college will not be transferred. levels. 2. Candidates must complete: Student Learning a. 20 credit hours of core courses. Outcomes b. 16 (for the Paper Option) or 10 Upon completion the student will be (for the Thesis Option) credit able: hours of elective courses. These 1. To discuss and analyze electives may normally include no theological issues and questions more than 2 credit hours in a through habitual knowledge relevant language and may not appropriate to Master’s level include courses whose primary achievement outcomes are the acquisition or 2. To demonstrate graduate-level refinement of non-research skills familiarity with the Bible and (e.g. preaching or liturgical multiple other theological sources practice). and databases while assessing and c. 3 courses at the 8000 level applying such sources critically must be included in the total and appropriately number of credit hours required 3. To compose research papers or for the degree. These 8000- articles appropriate for scholarly level courses in the MA publishing (Theology) Program require a particularly notable demonstration
33 of research and writing skills. Jesus Christ and Human d. 1 Scholarly Paper (non-credit) Redemption 3 or a Thesis (6 credit hours), TS 7315 Theology of Church and depending on the Option chosen. Ministry 3 3. The objective and methodology Total Core Credit Hours 20 of the Thesis may require the (N.B. Students not concurrently working knowledge of a second enrolled in the MDiv program and language. who have not taken a Church History 4. A minimum grade point average course must also take one of the of 3.0 is required for all courses following as an elective course:) applicable to the degree. CH 6310 Church History I: The 5. The degree program normally Patristic Era requires two years of full-time CH 6311 Church History II: Holy study but must be completed Roman Empire to the Present within five years after CH 7220 United States Religious matriculation. History Application for CH 7235 History of Hispanic/Latino Candidacy Christianity in the U.S. MA (Theology) students will apply Two Tracks for candidacy to the MA (Theology) A General Research Track, where degree after successfully completing the emphasis is on wide-ranging 12 graduate credits in required courses theological research, and a Thesis at OST. The Admission Committee, Track, where research includes after consultation with the faculty, extended attention to a specific will decide on the applications for theological issue. candidacy. Admission to candidacy is A Concentration may be earned in the faculty’s attestation that the student one of the following areas: Cultural has demonstrated capacities to fulfill and Historical Studies; Scriptural all the objectives for the degree and to Studies; Systematic Theology; Moral complete the degree requirements. Theology; Spirituality. Curriculum Paper Option SS 6200 Scriptural Hermeneutics 2 Required Courses: 23 credit hours SS 7331 Synoptic Gospels 3 Elective Courses: 16 credit hours TS 6301 Theology of Revelation and (3 credit courses at the 8000-Level Faith 3 and included among the total required TS 6305 Introduction to Missiology: hours) Culture and Religion 3 Scholarly Paper (Non-credit) TS 6350 Foundations of Moral Total Credit Hours – 36 credit hours Theology 3 Thesis Option TS 7311 Christology: Required Courses: 23 credit hours
34 Elective Courses: 10 credit hours Outcomes Thesis: 6 credit hours Upon completion the student will be Total Credit Hours – 36 credit hours able: Concentration 1. To present a summary overview For a concentration in one of the five of major historical periods appropriate areas (Cultural/Historical, within the history of Christian Scriptural, Systematic, Moral, or spirituality by identifying various Spiritual) the above requirements movements, spiritual schools, should include 15 credit hours and relevant classical spirituality distributed in one of two ways, either: literature 1. 9 credit hours in selected area 2. To evaluate instances of Christian 3 courses at 8000-level cr. hrs. in religious experience and dynamics selected area of interior transformation as understood within the Christian 2. 1 Scholarly Paper in selected area mystical tradition 3 credit hours in selected area 3 courses at 8000-level cr. hrs. in 3. To describe and evaluate the selected area various contributions to Christian 6 credit hour Thesis in selected area spirituality which have emerged from within our culturally diverse society, notably with respect to Master of Arts Hispanic influences (Spirituality) To compare and contrast the Christian spiritual tradition with various non- The Master of Arts (Spirituality) Christian ones provides an in-depth understanding of Christian spirituality. Students will Admission Requirements study various spiritual and mystical See section on General Admission traditions. Graduates from this Requirements for Graduate Studies program will be valuable resources for at Master’s Level. Note that for the renewal centers, spiritual direction, MA Degree there is no exception to parish and retreat work in service of the requirement of having a bachelor’s the Church’s mission and ministry in degree. a culturally diverse and globalizing world. Degree Requirements 1. The candidate must complete the Goal 36 credit program as a full-time Provide a comprehensive academic student in two years. A part-time background in Christian Spirituality student can expect the program to with an emphasis on principal classical take 3 to 4 years. No more than and contemporary traditions. twelve (12) graduate-level (MA) credit hours may be transferred Student Learning into the program from another
35 institution toward the degree. OR 2. A student will be required TS 7370 Integration of Psychology to complete a final (three and Spirituality credit hours) thesis/project to Required Courses: 18 credit hours demonstrate the level to which the Elective Courses: 15 credit hours goals of the program have been achieved. Final Thesis/Project: 3 credit hours 3. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 is required for the degree. Master of Arts in 4. Students are encouraged to seek Pastoral Ministry spiritual direction during the course of the degree program. The Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry is a professional degree Application for program “which provides education Candidacy for the church’s mission and ministry MA (Spirituality) students will apply in the world.” (OST Statement of for candidacy to the MA (Spirituality) Purpose, paragraph 1) degree after successfully completing This program prepares students to 12 graduate credits in required courses serve as pastoral associates, liturgy at OST. The Admission Committee, coordinators, education directors, after consultation with the faculty, youth ministers or pastoral care will decide on the applications for workers. candidacy. Admission to candidacy is the faculty’s attestation that the student Goal has demonstrated capacities to fulfill Preparation for specialized ministries all the objectives for the degree and to such as religious education, youth complete the degree requirements. ministry, pastoral care, liturgy coordinators, and/or pastoral Curriculum administration. TS 7369 An Overview of the History of Christian Spirituality Student Learning TS 7371 Classical Christian Writers I Outcomes TS 7373 Classical Christian Writers II Upon completion the student will be able: TS 7365 Reading Religious 1. To use theological reflection as Experience and the a tool for pastoral planning and Discernment of Spirits personal development TS 7376 Biblical Foundations of 2. To defend and systematize an Spirituality ecclesially responsible knowledge TS 7370 Fundamental Principles of of the Tradition appropriate to the Spiritual Direction chosen specialization
36 3. To demonstrate ministerial skills at OST. appropriate to the chosen field of 6. The MAPM program can be specialization completed in 2 years of full-time 4. To apply knowledge and skills study. to specific pastoral issues within 7. Ordinarily, the degree must be particular pastoral settings and completed within five years after cultural contexts matriculation. Students may study 5. To demonstrate personal spiritual on a part-time basis. maturity 8. Complete application for Candidacy to the MAPM. Admission Requirements See the section under General Application for Admission Requirements for Graduate Candidacy Studies at Master’s Level. MAPM students may apply for candidacy to the degree after Degree Requirements successfully completing 12 credit 1. Complete 36 credit hours, 28 hours of core graduate courses at of which come from required Oblate School of Theology. The courses. No more than twelve Admissions Committee, after (12) graduate hours may consultation with the faculty, will be transferred from another decide on the applications for institution toward the degree. candidacy. Admission to candidacy 2. Complete the Pastoral Formation is the faculty’s attestation that the Seminar which provides for student has demonstrated capacities personal and spiritual formation to fulfill all academic, spiritual, and and includes a Supervised professional objectives for the degree Ministry Component which and to meet all degree requirements. requires the student to: • perform 108 clock hours of Final Qualifying Project ministry together with a Field The Pastoral Practicum is the Supervisor qualifying project for the Master of • prepare written tools for Arts in Pastoral Ministry degree. The theological reflection goal of the practicum experience is • present them to the seminar group to enable the person to enter into for critique. ministry through effective integration 3. The final project is a Pastoral of theology and pastoral practice to Practicum. respond to the needs of the people. The practicum engages the person in 4. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is a supervised experience of ministry required for the degree. which promotes personal self- 5. At least one year of study (16 understanding and professional growth credit hours) must be completed in competence for ministry.
37 The practicum may be initiated upon Final Project (Practicum) for Non- completion of 25 credit hours of credit the degree. The practicum involves Concentrations identifying a pastoral need, developing Students who choose to do so may and implementing a pastoral response, develop their own concentration in and submitting a written report upon a certain area of study within the completion of the Practicum. curriculum of the degree. Three Throughout, the student meets areas of concentration are offered regularly with the Director, supervisor regularly: Scripture, Spirituality and a field supervisor. and Hispanic Ministry. Other areas may be developed through academic Curriculum advisement. Historical and Cultural Studies A concentration consists of two (3 credit hours) elements: CH 6311 Church History II: Holy Roman Empire to the 1. At least 7 hours of study in the Present chosen area, which may include core courses. Scripture (8 credit hours) SS 6200 Scriptural Hermeneutics 2. The final project addressing a SS 7331 Synoptic Gospels topic within the chosen area of 2 additional credit hours concentration. Systematics (9 credit hours) TS 6350 Foundations of Moral Master of Divinity Theology TS 7311 Christology: Jesus Christ and Human Redemption The Master of Divinity degree is TS 7315 Theology of Church and the first professional degree and is Ministry designed to provide a solid foundation in the various theological disciplines Pastoral (9 credit hours) and in the development of ministerial PS 6350 Basic Pastoral Care skills in order to prepare candidates PS 6177 Pastoral Formation Seminar I for ordained ministry and qualified PS 7181 Theological Reflection for laity for effective ministry in the Pastoral Leadership (first Church. The degree “prepares persons semester) for pastoral ministry through academic PS 7182 Theological Reflection for study and supervised practice.” (OST Pastoral Leadership (second Purpose) semester) TS 6305 Introduction to Missiology: Goal Culture and Religion Preparation of candidates for Required Courses: 28 credit hours presbyteral or other full-time Elective Courses: 8 credit hours professional ministry through academic study and supervised
38 practice. required by the U.S. Bishops’ Student Learning Program of Priestly Formation. Outcomes 2. In addition to the specified Upon completion the student will be undergraduate requirements of able: History and Method of Christian 1. To interpret in an ecclesially Thought and Reading the Bible and critically responsible way or their equivalents, applicants the Hebrew/Christian Scriptures must have demonstrated skill and theological tradition of the and knowledge levels in the area Christian community of public speaking. If unable to demonstrate this competency an 2. To preach effectively within the additional undergraduate course, Christian community Rhetoric and Proclamation or an 3. To lead liturgical worship in the approved equivalent, is taken. Church Degree Requirements 4. To provide pastoral care in 1. As a Roman Catholic school of various ministerial settings theology, OST makes special 5. To participate in the development reference to the requirements of ministry in a collaborative of the Program of Priestly style among men and women in Formation of the United States a multicultural and religiously Conference of Catholic Bishops plural society, recognizing diverse in designing the MDiv degree. gifts 2. All candidates must complete 80 6. To accept responsibility as a credit hours of graduate course public representative of the work, normally 74 required Church working for the common hours and 6 hours of electives. good in society Candidates for the Roman 7. To integrate theology, life Catholic priesthood will complete experience, and pastoral practice the 80-hour MDiv plus 26 hours of the Certificate in Advanced Admission Requirements Studies for Presbyteral Ministry See section on General Admission (106 hours); 8 of those 106 hours Requirements for Graduate Studies at are electives. Students with Master’s Level. appropriate undergraduate course work may challenge 6000 level 1. Candidates for priesthood foundational courses. ordination in the Roman Catholic Church in the United States 3. Generally, not more than one must have 30 credit hours in half of these credit hours may be undergraduate philosophy and transferred from other graduate 12 credit hours in undergraduate schools. Normally, graduate theology/religious studies as credits earned more than ten years
39 prior to admission will not be courses, primarily pastoral transferred. Courses for which and sacramental core courses, credits are transferred must be students should complete at least equivalent to Oblate School of one substantive assignment in Theology courses. Any course Spanish. Such requirements are accepted in transfer for an elective specified on the syllabus. will be accepted for no more than 7. In the area of spiritual formation 2 credit hours. and ministerial leadership, a 4. Students must complete at least candidate must show evidence two years of full-time study at of characteristics that befit a OST. The degree program must professional minister of the be completed within seven years Church. after matriculation. 5. All students for the MDiv degree Theological Field must maintain, and have at the Education completion of the requirements Theological Field Education is more for the conferral of the degree, than the application of theology in the a minimum grade point average practice of ministry, or the acquisition of 2.5 for graduate work. Low and development of pastoral skills. grades, indifference, or neglect It is, in itself, a locus of pastoral of work during any semester theology. Field Education provides may place a student on academic for the ongoing relationship between probation. theory and practice. It is an experience of learning where the student gains 6. Master of Divinity students must ministerial self-understanding and develop a capacity to minister confidence as a pastoral theologian. in the English and Spanish The student is expected to participate languages. Any exceptions need in a variety of pastoral experiences to be approved by the MDiv and engage in theological reflection. Director in consultation with the The theological reflection process and academic advisor. To achieve the methodology will lead the student Spanish proficiency expected of to deepen understanding of self an MDiv graduate, it is necessary and practice of pastoral care while to be able to celebrate the liturgy, integrating theological studies. preach, and converse in Spanish. Prior to enrolling in upper-level Field Education not only promotes the preaching and sacrament courses, development of the student as pastoral students should demonstrate an leader but also provides a genuine intermediate Spanish competency. service to the Church and society as Spanish language proficiency the student responds to the real needs can be demonstrated through of people in a ministerial setting. course work assignments. In Students in the MDiv program register some selected upper-level in the Orientation to Supervised
40 Ministry class. This class is an Academic preparation and limited instruction to the practice of pastoral concurrent field education experiences care and theological reflection. The provide a basic introduction to the first semester students attend classes pastoral ministry of the Church. in preparation for ministry placement Internship provides for full time and theological reflection in the involvement as a recognized member second semester. The Director of of a pastoral team, usually in a parish Pastoral Formation at Assumption situation. OST offers a non-obligatory Seminary works with the TFE Director but strongly recommended Internship to coordinate their seminarians’ program. As non-obligatory, the placements. The specific number of credit hours earned are recorded semester hours is listed under the on the academic transcript but are degree program and requirements are not applied toward the degree. described in the course syllabus. Structural components of the program The year-long placements for second include a pastoral placement which and third year students require 150 ensures a wide range of ministerial clock hours in the actual practice of experiences, a field instructor who ministry, individual supervision in is trained in pastoral supervision, the placement, and participation in and a lay committee representative peer theological reflection sessions of the parish community. Internship with other students, supervisors and is an intentional educational process a faculty member who serves as a structured to achieve the human and theological consultant. faith maturation of the person, while seeking to develop competence in Application for pastoral skills through theological Candidacy reflection in the actual practice of The MDiv student may apply for ministry. The Internship Program official candidacy to the MDiv degree normally follows the completion of after successfully completing 27 three years of studies and is of nine credit hours of core graduate courses months duration, after which the intern at Oblate School of Theology and returns to complete the academic fulfilling the language requirements. requirements for the MDiv degree. The Admissions Committee, after Twelve (12) credit hours may be consultation with faculty, will decide earned upon successful completion of on the applications for candidacy. the internship requirements, but may Admission to candidacy is the not be applied toward the degree. faculty’s attestation that the student has demonstrated abilities to fulfill all Final Qualifying Project academic and professional outcomes Integration of Theological Studies for the degree and to meet all the (TS 8296) is the final qualifying degree requirements. project for MDiv degree candidates. It is a seminar devoted to sharing and Internship Program revising selected examples of their
41 previous professional work during the SS 7312 Prophetic and Historical MDiv program. It is normally a two- Literature of the Old semester process which begins in the Testament fall semester of the final year of the SS 7333 Johannine Literature candidate’s MDiv program. SS 7336 Pauline Literature Theological Studies (37 credit hours) Continuation Outside A. Systematic Theology Priestly Formation TS 7313 Christian Anthropology: Since the Master of Divinity Degree Humanity Transformed in is the first professional degree for Christ ministry in the Church, OST has the TS 6301 Theology of Revelation and responsibility to evaluate an MDiv Faith (Revelación y fe) student’s accountability to the local TS 6305 Introduction to Missiology: church and continued suitability to Culture and Religion pursue this degree for professional TS 7311 Christology: Jesus Christ and ministry. To continue as an MDiv Human Redemption student, a seminarian who initially TS 7314 God in the Christian enrolls at the School as a member of Tradition one of the affiliated formation houses TS 7315 Theology of Church and and subsequently withdraws from this Ministry formational program must fulfill the following requirements: B. Sacramental TS 7335 Christian Marriage: 1. A new statement of Goals and Theological & Canonical Objectives Aspects 2. Three recommendations including TS 7331 Liturgy & Theology of one from the previous formation Christian Initiation director(s) TS 7333 Liturgy & Theology of 3. An Interview with the Director of Eucharist the MDiv program ( Non-seminarians may request permission to take TS 7232 Liturgy Curriculum and Theology of Sacraments of Historical and Cultural Studies Healing rather than TS 7335 or TS (3 credit hours) 7331. The remaining credit hour is CH 6311 Church History II: added to electives.) Holy Roman Empire to the C. Moral and Spiritual Theology Present TS 6260 Introduction to Christian Scriptural Studies (14 credit hours) Spirituality SS 6200 Scriptural Hermeneutics TS 6350 Foundations of Moral SS 7311 The Torah Theology (Fundamentos de SS 7331 Synoptic Gospels Teología Moral) TS 7350 Catholic Social Thought Two of the following: D. Interdisciplinary Studies
42 TS 8296 Integration of Theological Theological Studies (10 credit hours) Studies TS 7236 Theology of Ministerial Pastoral Studies (20 credit hours) Priesthood PS 6192 & 6193 Orientation to TS 7252 Theology of Human Supervised Ministry (1 cr. hr.) Sexuality PS 6350 Basic Pastoral Care TS 7232 Liturgy and Theology of PS 7340 Evangelization and Faith Sacraments of Healing Formation 2 additional credit hours in Patristics PS 7320 Church Law (options) PS 7334 Introductory Preaching Pastoral Studies (8 credit hours) PS 7351 Pastoral Counseling PS 7235 Liturgical Preaching PS 9195 & 9295 Theological Field PS 9196 & 9296 Theological Education (3 cr. hrs.) Field Education (replaces PS 6177 & 6178 Pastoral Formation Pastoral Formation Seminars Seminar I & II (.5 cr. hr.) I-IV, plus 2 additional cr. hrs.) - replaced by second year of TFE for PS 7253 Bioethics/Healthcare Ethics presbyteral candidates PS 8100 & 8101 Practicum in PS 7179 & 7180 Pastoral Formation Presidential Leadership at Seminar III & IV (1 cr. hr.) Liturgy - waived for presbyteral candidates Electives: (2 credit hours) Required Courses: 74 credit hours Certificate of Pastoral Electives: 6 credit hours Studies The Certificate of Advanced Studies The Certificate of Pastoral Studies for Presbyteral Ministry is earned (CPS) is a program of studies for a by priesthood candidates who have limited number of special students completed the 80-hour MDiv and 26 who do not qualify to enter the regular additional credit hours required by the MDiv degree program. The CPS is Program of Priestly Formation. The intended primarily for candidates for requirements include: ordination who lack a Bachelor of Arts degree, or its equivalent. Historical and Cultural Studies (5 credit hours) 1. The program parallels the MDiv degree plan and the Certificate of CH 6310 Church History I: Advanced Studies in Presbyteral The Patristic Era Ministry in purpose and scope. CH 7220 U.S. Religious History or 2. Since ordination to the priesthood CH 7235 History of U.S. Hispanic/ is usually the career intent of this Latino Christianity special student, a competent Scriptural Studies (3 credit hours) authority from a diocese or religious congregation must The remaining course in the MDiv recommend the student. The requirements
43 School reserves the right to appropriate areas of Cultural and restrict the admission of such Historical Studies, Scriptural Studies, students in view of the number Systematic Theology, Moral Theology, currently enrolled in the program. Sacramental Theology, or Spirituality 3. Candidates for the CPS will may be distributed among these follow the MDiv admissions and areas or along with the final project, registration procedures, maintain focused in one of them to constitute a grade point average of 2.5, and a concentration in that area. Three apply for candidacy after the first courses at the 8000 level as required 31 hours. The MDiv Director by the MA (Theology) degree must be approves the plan of required included in the total number of credit courses. The program normally hours required for the dual degree. consists of 98 credit hours. It is The total hours for the two degrees also recommended that students equal 98 graduate credit hours (for do an internship as an important presbyteral candidates who must also part of their preparation for obtain the Certificate of Advanced ordination to the priesthood. The Studies for Presbyteral Ministry, Certificate of Pastoral Studies a minimum of 106 graduate credit is granted upon successful hours). completion of the approved plan A minimum grade point average of of studies. 3.0 is required for all courses applied to or taken for the MA (Theology) MA (Theology)/MDiv Dual portion of the dual degree. A student Program may not matriculate for the dual Candidates for the Master of Divinity program before the completion of degree (MDiv) who hold a bachelor’s two semesters of full-time graduate degree may apply 18 credit hours study at OST. The dual program must from the Master of Divinity toward be completed within six years after a Master of Arts (Theology) degree. matriculation. They may earn a MA (Theology) degree by acquiring eighteen Candidates should strive to complete additional graduate credits in courses their final MA (Theology) project taken at OST, i.e. not transferred during the second-last year of their from another institution, and by MDiv Program (i.e. during Year III fulfilling either of the final project Theology). requirements (a Scholarly Paper or a Thesis) as designated for the MA Curriculum (Theology) degree. The additional Completion of all requirements for credits can be covered for seminarians an MDiv Degree plus one of the by the additional credits beyond the following two combinations: MDiv degree that are required by the 1. Paper Option: 18 appropriate credit Program of Priestly Formation. hours (for presbyteral candidates The extra courses taken in the this requirement is fulfilled by their
44 program); 3 courses at the 8000-level; Goal 1 scholarly paper (non-credit.) To give a sound theological education 2. Thesis Option: 12 appropriate credit in preparation for ministry, which hours (for presbyteral candidates encompasses knowledge of scriptural, this requirement is fulfilled by their dogmatic, moral and practical program); 3 courses at the 8000-level theology as handed down by Church in an appropriate area or areas; 6 tradition and developed in light of the credit hours thesis. contemporary Church in the world.
Concentration Student Learning For a concentration in one of the five Outcomes appropriate areas (Cultural/Historical, Upon completion the student will be Scriptural, Systematic, Moral, or able: Spiritual) the above requirements 1. To interpret in an ecclesially should include 15 credit hours and critically responsible way distributed in one of two ways: the Hebrew/Christian Scriptures and theological tradition of the 1. 9 credit hours in the selected area Christian community 3 courses at the 8000-level in the selected area 2. To have a general knowledge of 1 Scholarly Paper (non-credit) in contemporary theology solidly the selected area rooted in the Catholic tradition and open to the contributions of 2. 3 credit hours in the selected area other Christian and non-Christian 3 courses at the 8000-level in the traditions selected area 6-credit hour Thesis in the selected 3. To perceive the relationships area between the various areas of theology 4. To have the aptitude to exercise Baccalaureate in Sacred critical discernment both in the Theology (STB) selection and use of theological texts (scripture, ecclesiastical The Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology documents, particular theologies, (STB) is offered through an affiliation etc.), and also in the assessment with Saint Paul University, Ottawa, of various historical situations of and accredited by the Congregation the Church and of the world; of for Catholic Education. The STB the past and of the present represents ecclesial certification 5. To possess a clear-minded and that a student has completed the searching interiorization or requirements for the degree and is personal appropriation of the knowledgeable in all the major areas realities of the faith of Catholic theology. 6. To have the aptitude to perceive ministerial activities
45 as contributing to the life of the requirements for pastoral formation as Church in spirit and in truth specified by the Program of Priestly 7. To possess adequate knowledge of Formation and included in the Master the sources, the methods and the of Divinity Program.) tools needed to continue the study of theology independently Curriculum The STB program will be completed 8. To integrate theology, life in 4 years with courses in the experience, and pastoral practice following areas: historical and cultural studies (8 cr. hrs.), scriptural studies Admission Requirements (17 cr. hrs.), theological studies (47 cr. 1. Student must successfully register hrs.), pastoral studies (26 cr. hrs.), and through OST and be accepted as electives (8 cr. hrs.). a student at Saint Paul University, Ottawa. (See section on General Admission Requirements for Doctor of Ministry Graduate Studies at Master’s Level.) In remaining attentive to the signs 2. Complete Pre-Theology of the times, seeking to serve the requirements of 30 credit hours ecclesial community, and providing of undergraduate philosophy and pastoral preparation of ministers, 12 credit hours in undergraduate Oblate School of Theology offers theology/religious studies as the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) with determined by the Program of concentrations in Spiritual Formation Priestly Formation. in the Local Community; U.S. Hispanic/Latino Ministry; Pastoral Degree Requirements Leadership in the African-American 1. Successful completion of all Community; General Pastoral requirements for the MDiv degree Leadership; and Spirituality and and Certificate in Advanced Ministry. Studies for Presbyteral Ministry. Successful completion of the The DMin degree, building upon credits specified in the program the Master of Divinity degree or its requirements below. equivalent, expands the mission of the school by offering accredited 2. Maintain a GPA of 3.0. theological and ministerial preparation 3. Complete a written examination. and training through this terminal professional degree. In each 4. Complete an oral examination. concentration, the DMin curriculum The student will satisfy all advances the professional competency requirements of the first cycle of ministers in today’s Church. of theological studies. (Note: Additionally, the candidate for Goal ordination will complete all other Enhance the understanding and
46 practice of ministry through doctoral- Special requirements for some areas level pastoral theological education. of concentration include, but are not limited to, the following: Student Learning a) For the Spiritual Formation in the Outcomes Local Community concentration: Upon completion the student will be an annotated bibliography of able to: works read in the last three years 1. Design an original response to that are germane to this area. a pastoral issue in his or her b) For the Hispanic/Latino Ministry ministry concentration: (a) ability to speak, 2. Identify and assess the scriptural comprehend, read, and write and theological issues involved in in Spanish; (b) experience in specific pastoral contexts Hispanic/Latino ministry 3. Critique and utilize contemporary models of theological reflection Degree Requirements 1. The candidate must successfully 4. Demonstrate social research skills complete thirty doctoral hours appropriate to pastoral issues (36 for Spirituality and Ministry Concentration). A maximum of Admission Requirements six applicable doctoral hours, 1. A minimum of three years of earned within the last ten years, full-time professional ministerial may be transferred into the DMin experience subsequent to the MDiv Program at the discretion of the degree or its equivalent. Program Director. A five to seven page essay in which 2. A student must pass each course. the applicant describes the following: Incomplete or insufficient work (Please use these subheadings in your for a course or other curricular essay.) component may be grounds for • the applicant’s understanding of probation or dismissal. ministry in light of a given faith 3. Professional ethical conduct tradition required by a student’s • reasons for undertaking the DMin denomination is presumed Program and how it relates to that throughout the DMin Program. understanding of ministry Violation of these principles may be grounds for probation or • projected area of specialized dismissal. competency (concentration) with reasons for that choice 4. The minimum time for degree completion is three years; the • a specific challenge to applicant’s normal maximum time for particular ministry which he/she completion is six years after hopes to address in the doctoral matriculation. The expected time project of completion is 5 years.
47 5. Upon acceptance of the months before the first day of the student’s Doctoral Project by intensive sessions (and on the the Doctoral Project Committee first day of class for the regular and with the assistance of the semesters). Students taking the DMin Administration, a student intensive sessions are expected makes arrangements for an oral to have completed all the reading presentation to the OST faculty, assignments before the start of the students, and invited guests. session The oral presentation normally 2. Submission to the respective requires a student’s presence on professor of all pre-assignment(s) campus. Satisfactory completion indicated in the syllabus of this presentation is one of the final requirements before 3. Completion of a doctoral-level conferral of the degree. paper of significant length, as indicated in the course syllabus. Doctoral Courses* The final paper is delivered to the Courses are taken at OST’s campus professor(s) within three months during the two-week intensive of the completion of the class, sessions every January and June, according to the timeline found in unless otherwise specified. It is the syllabus. recommended that the student take a Final grades for each course shall leave of absence from work on class be posted as Pass/Fail. Within the days during the intensive sessions course work, professors may choose because there is work required outside to indicate letter grades (following of class time. Thirty hours a week the OST grading distinctions) on any will be devoted to course activity, assignment(s) and the final evaluation including classroom interaction. to convey the student’s level of *Students in the Spirituality and competency for doctoral study. For Ministry concentration take a full- doctoral students, “B” is the lowest time load of doctoral courses during acceptable letter grade. Inability to the regular fall and spring semesters maintain a “B” average may result in (7.5 cr. hrs. each) in addition to three failure of the particular course. intensive sessions and normally complete their coursework after 13 Continuation Status months of full-time attendance. DMin students must register each session/semester for a particular Requirements for each course include course, or a section of the Doctoral the following: Project to maintain current status in 1. Completion of the reading the DMin Program. If a student is assignments provided to the ineligible or unable to register for a student. The required readings particular course in a given semester, and syllabus are provided to the student will register for one of the the student approximately two continuance classifications. The DMin
48 Administration will advise the student be enrolled during the fall and spring about the applicable continuance semesters. If this is not done, extended status. Please refer to the course status must be requested from the descriptions in the back of this catalog DMin Administration. Students for an explanation of the continuance must register for Doctoral Project I classifications. within six months of the approval of the student’s doctoral proposal and Application for acceptance into doctoral candidacy. Candidacy Without a written exception from Acceptance into the Doctor of the DMin Administration, extended Ministry Program does not imply status will automatically apply in both acceptance to Candidacy for the of these cases if the student does not degree. Upon admission, the register by the deadline. administrators of the DMin program Withdrawal from the program after guide a student through the program initial orientation must be requested in requirements. Normally, once a writing from the Program Director. student completes all course work (except Doctoral Project I and II), Students may drop a course after they the DMin Administration assists the register, but may not add a course student with the creation of his/her without permission of the DMin Doctoral Project Committee (DPC) Administration. Added courses will be and the student writes his/her doctoral billed as any other. proposal under the DPC’s guidance. The refund policy for dropped classes Candidacy status is conferred upon is listed in the section on Financial the student whose doctoral project Information. proposal has been accepted by his/her DPC. A student must petition Personal Leave in writing for doctoral candidacy Students in exceptional circumstances, in conjunction with the DPC’s such as military personnel while approval of the proposal. (Additional they are deployed or students facing information and policies regarding exceptional personal, ministerial, or doctoral candidacy and the Doctoral family stress, may contact the DMin Project Committee will be made administration about the possibility of available in the DMin Handbook, personal leave. which is presented at orientation.) Curriculum Withdrawal and Drop 30 Credit Hours Required/36 Policy for Spirituality and Ministry Students are expected to be enrolled Concentration in a class each January and June until (The second digit of the course all courses are completed. Students number designates the number of in the Spirituality and Ministry credit hours.) Concentration are also expected to
49 Core Curriculum for all two concentration-specific courses as DMin Students listed above. PTC 8301 Use of Social Sciences in Practical Theology PTC 8302 Practical Theology as Doctor of Philosophy Critical Reflection on (Spirituality) Particular Contexts PTC 8303 Hermeneutics of Scripture The PhD (Spirituality) is an Oblate in Ministry School of Theology initiative in PTC 8304 Theological Integration for response to an expressed interest Ministry Seminar and hunger for graduate formation in PSC 9601 Doctoral Project I Spirituality. More and more people PSC 9602 Doctoral Project II are interested in Spirituality and are PSC 9001 Proposal Writing seeking advanced academic training Areas of Concentration in the area. Few existing doctoral- level programs in Spirituality focus Spiritual Formation in the Local specifically on the long, deep, and Community rich history of the Judeo-Christian PTF 8305 Faith Development traditions in prayer, mysticism, and PTF 8306 Spirituality and Culture spiritual guidance. This program U.S. Hispanic/Latino Ministry serves the church and society in an PTH 8305 Contemporary Issues in important way by providing doctoral- Hispanic/Latino Ministry level scholars in the areas of prayer, PTH 8306 Contemporary Hispanic/ mysticism, spiritual discernment, and Latino Spiritualities spiritual guidance. African American Pastoral The Doctoral Program in Spirituality Leadership produces scholars with comprehensive PTA 8305 Contemporary Issues in knowledge of the overall discipline African American as well as a specialization in at least PTA 8306 Black Church Traditions in one particular area of Christian the Contemporary Context Spirituality. The specific approach is academic and theological from Spirituality and Ministry the Roman Catholic tradition, PTS 8305/DSC 7301 History of with openness to ecumenical and Christian Spirituality interreligious perspectives. PTS 8306/DSC 7303 Contemporary Spirituality Goal PTS 8307/DSC 7302 Hermeneutics of The goal is to immerse each student Religious Experience in the history and tradition of [Elective] classical Christian Spirituality so as to give him or her the tools to Pastoral Leadership assess religious experience, critically In this concentration the student evaluate contemporary movements completes the core curriculum and any within Spirituality, help mentor others
50 spiritually, do scholarly research and institution will be evaluated publishing in the area of spirituality, and prerequisite courses may be and develop a vocabulary to articulate required. both the human spirit and divine revelation more effectively. Degree Requirements 1.At least 54 hours of doctoral-level Student Learning course work: 36 hours of core courses Outcomes and 18 hours of electives. Upon completion the student will be 2.A first-year doctoral seminar is able to: required of all students 1. demonstrate an essential literacy 3.One modern language in addition in the discipline of Spirituality to English OR an ancient language and apply critical tools needed for related to the area of specialization or scholarly research as defined by research. the academy of theology 2. demonstrate a critical in-depth Language Requirements knowledge of two classical • Beyond English, students need to schools of Christian spirituality demonstrate reading proficiency 3. comprehend the relationship in at least one modern language. between religious experiences • Depending upon their areas of across ecumenical and specialization and their thesis interreligious lines topics, students may be required 4. identify resources to discern to show proficiency in another authentic religious experience ancient or modern language from human pathology GPA Requirement 5. articulate the Christian tradition • Students must maintain a 3.3 in terms of other or multiple grade point average historical/cultural contexts. Comprehensive Exam Admission Requirements All students are required to take a 1. A Master of Divinity degree, comprehensive examination upon Master of Arts degree in completing their course requirements Spirituality or Theology or the and before submitting their proposals educational equivalent for a dissertation. a) Students who do not already have a graduate degree in Theology Candidacy or Religious Studies are required A student will be considered a PhD to obtain the M.A. in Spirituality candidate upon before applying to the program. 1. completing all the course work b) Students who have completed an 2. successfully completing the M.A. in spirituality in another comprehensive exam
51 3. submitting a dissertation proposal status. Please refer to the course that is accepted by the OST descriptions in the back of this catalog faculty for an explanation of the continuance Acceptance into the PhD Program classifications. does not imply acceptance to Candidacy for the degree. Upon Withdrawal and Drop admission, the administrators of Policy the PhD program guide a student Students are expected to be enrolled in through the program requirements. classes each semester until all courses Normally, once a student, the are completed. If this is not done, Candidacy status is conferred upon extended status must be requested the student who completes all course from the PhD Administration. work, the Comprehensive Exam, and Withdrawal from the program after whose doctoral proposal has been initial orientation must be requested in accepted by his/her DPC. A student writing from the Program Director. must petition in writing for doctoral Students may drop a course after candidacy in conjunction with the they register, but may not add a DPC’s approval of the proposal. course without permission of the PhD Administration. Added courses will be Dissertation billed as any other. The refund policy A written dissertation is required of for dropped classes is listed in the each student. section on Financial Information. (See Student Handbook for more details) Personal Leave Students in exceptional circumstances, Time limit such as military personnel while Each student is required to have they are deployed or students facing completed all requirements for the exceptional personal, ministerial, or degree within seven years of initial family stress, may contact the PhD registration. Extensions may be administration about the possibility of granted by the Dean. personal leave.
Continuation Status Cirriculum Students must register each semester Required Courses: 36 Credit hours for a particular course, or a section of (All 3 Credit Hours) the dissertation to maintain current status in the PhD Program. If a student First Year is ineligible or unable to register for a DSC 6301 Pro-Seminar (Methods) particular course in a given semester, DSC 7301 History of Christian the student will register for one of the Spirituality continuance classifications. The PhD DSC 7302 Hermeneutics of Religious Administration will advise the student Experience about the applicable continuance DSC 7303 Contemporary Spirituality
52 Second Year Mysticism DSC 6302 Foundations Contemporary Hispanic Spirituality DSC 7305 Seminar and Practicum in Contemporary African-American Teaching Spirituality Spirituality DSE 8300 Selected Classical Writer Ignatian Spirituality (1 course) Dominican Spirituality DSC 7304 Spirituality of the Trinity Spirituality of Kenosis Third Year Franciscan Spirituality DSC 7306 Integrating Seminar (Methods) DSE 8300 Selected Contemporary Writer (1 course) Fourth Year DSC 9000 Comprehensives (non-credit) DSC 9001 Dissertation Proposal Writing (non-credit) Fifth Year DSC 9003 PhD Dissertation: Research DSC 9005 PhD Dissertation: Writing Elective Courses 18 required credit hours (All electives are 3 credit hours. Below is a possible list which will expand as faculty become available.)
53 OTHER PROGRAMS
54 Other Programs of Study understanding of the historical Pre-Theology Studies and cultural context of their faith
The Pre-Theology program is Admission Requirements designed to serve those students who 1. Applicants must have completed seek to meet prerequisites for entering a high school curriculum graduate theological study whether preferably in a program which the prerequisites are those of Oblate was preparatory for college. School of Theology, the Program of An applicant may submit a Priestly Formation for seminarians, or GED in lieu of the transcript if those of another institution of higher the composite score is at least learning. Through this program the 45. Applicants must present School “provides education for the the proper documentation of church’s mission and ministry in the their high school work. Many world.” (OST Statement of Purpose) applicants will have completed an undergraduate degree or Goal finished a number of credits Preparation of students with a toward an undergraduate degree. comprehensive introduction for Official transcripts from each graduate theological study through undergraduate and graduate the study of philosophy and religious school attended must be submitted studies. with the application packet in signed, sealed envelopes. Student Learning 2. Interview with the Director of Outcomes Pre-Theology. Upon completion the student will be 3. For more information see the able: section, General Admission 1. To integrate basic theological Requirement for Graduate learning with personal, spiritual, Students at Master’s Level. communal, and pastoral development Program Requirements Pre-Theology students must maintain 2. To develop the academic and a 2.5 grade point average and should practical skills necessary for achieve appropriate progress. graduate study 3. To apply comprehensive study of Pre-Theology Curriculum basic philosophical questions and their historical development in Religious Studies view of theological studies The undergraduate religious studies curriculum is designed to offer the 4. To identify the relationship and student a comprehensive introduction interaction between philosophy that serves as a base for future and theology graduate theological study. Given 5. To provide students with an
55 the greatly varied background of Program of Priestly Formation. It those entering ministerial studies, is designed “to prepare seminarians the program uses an adult model of who have completed college but lack learning, that is, an integrated process the philosophical and theological of basic theological learning with background and other areas necessary personal, spiritual, communal, and to pursue graduate-level theology.” pastoral development. The program (Program of Priestly Formation, PPF seeks to develop both the academic 161) and practical skills necessary for graduate study. Goal Prepare seminarians for graduate Philosophy theological study. The undergraduate philosophy curriculum offers a comprehensive Student Learning study of basic philosophical questions Outcomes and their historical development, Upon completion the student will be particularly in view of theological able: studies. The impact of culture and 1.To focus on the fundamental beliefs of the principal Christian thinkers is and practices of the Catholic faith. integrated into the course work which (PPF 158) emphasizes critical thinking. 2.To provide an understanding of the historical and cultural context of the Language Catholic Faith. (PPF 162) Intensive Pastoral English and Intensive Pastoral Spanish are offered 3.To acquire an understanding of the through the Mexican American relationship and interaction between Catholic College for students who are philosophy and theology. (PPF 153) seeking to meet language requirements for admission or for the Master of Program Requirements Divinity degree. Seminarians in the Pre-Theology program must maintain a 2.5 grade Prerequisites for MDiv point average and should achieve Degree appropriate progress. Seminarians are RS 4101 Reading the Bible required to complete 12 credit hours of RS 4125 Rhetoric and Proclamation religious studies and 30 credit hours of PL 4323 History and Method of philosophy. Christian Thought Pre-Theology Curriculum Pre-Theology Studies for Seminarians Religious Studies The Pre-Theology program at Oblate The undergraduate religious studies School of Theology also follows curriculum is designed “to provide the guidelines identified in the seminarians with an understanding of the historical and cultural context of
56 their faith.” (PPF 162) medieval modern and contemporary “Seminarians should learn to relate philosophy. (PPF 155) theology to the larger mission of the The philosophy program must include Church in the public sphere.” (PPF the study of logic, epistemology, 159) philosophy of nature, metaphysics, “Seminarians study the themes natural theology, anthropology, and contained in the Catechism of the ethics. (PPF 156) Catholic Church including courses Undergraduate Degree Programs in on Catholic doctrine, liturgy and Philosophy or Religious Studies sacraments, Catholic morality, Students who have not completed an Christian prayer, and Sacred undergraduate degree may choose to Scripture.” (PPF 158) complete a bachelor’s degree at the Mexican American Catholic College Philosophy or St. Mary’s University San Antonio. The undergraduate philosophy These institutions will assist a student curriculum offers a comprehensive to complete a bachelor’s degree in study of basic philosophical questions philosophy or religious studies and at and their historical development, the same time complete the required particularly in view of theological pre-theology courses in preparation for studies. The impact of culture and a Master’s degree at Oblate School of of the principal Christian thinkers Theology. All institutions are familiar is integrated into the course work with the requirements of the Program which emphasizes critical thinking. of Priestly Formation for pre-theology The curriculum allows the student to studies required of seminarians in satisfy the requirements of 30 credit preparation for the Master of Divinity hours outlined in The Program of degree. The bachelor’s curriculum is Priestly Formation over a two-year determined by the student’s program period. (PPF 152) at the degree-granting institution. The study of philosophy is Cross-registration for courses at fundamental and indispensable to the Oblate School of Theology and St. structure of theological studies and Mary’s University is completed at the to the formation of candidates for the home institution. priesthood. It is not by chance that the curriculum of theological studies is preceded by a time of special study of Pastoral Lay Ministry philosophy. (PPF 152) The seminary philosophy program In response to the call of the Bishops of studies should be balanced, and the Second Vatican Council to comprehensive, integrated, and encourage the laity to play an active coherent. The philosophy program role in the church, Oblate School must include substantial studies in the of Theology has established two history of philosophy treating ancient, certificate programs for lay leadership
57 formation, the Lay Ministry Institute 4. To apply various interpersonal and the Instituto de Formación and theological reflection skills Pastoral/Pastoral Formation Institute. practiced during the successful engagement in their Supervised Lay Ministry Institute Pastoral Practicum (LMI) Admission Requirements The Lay Ministry Institute is a two- Applicants must submit a year program of ministry formation. formal application and letters of Building upon a participant’s basic recommendation from the pastor/ understanding of the Catholic faith, supervisor in the ministerial setting. this program, exploring core topics An interview with the Program in Theology, Spirituality, Liturgy Director is required. and Pastoral Ministry is taught at an undergraduate level. The LMI also Certificate Requirements presents lay leadership skills that help 1. Successful completion of required prepare students for collaborative areas of study for the program ministry in the parish or other ministry settings. A supervised practicum 2. Participation in retreats and experience and Theological Reflection seminars sessions are key elements of the year 3. Successful completion of a 2 experience. Both years of study are pastoral practicum, including conducted on the OST campus. supervised ministry 4. Satisfactory practice of Goal theological reflection skills To form men and women as lay pastoral ministers The Lay Ministry Institute may be taken for either certificate or Student Learning undergraduate credit and is often the Outcomes starting point for those who intend Upon completion of the two-year to pursue a professional degree. certificate program the student will be The LMI offers opportunities for able: professional continuing education and personal spiritual renewal to those 1. To apply knowledge of the serving in church and society. Persons Catholic Faith and research skills completing this two year program to immediate ministry setting(s) are in compliance with the National 2. To draw upon the experience of Certification Standards for Pastoral different styles of prayer when Ministers. called upon to lead public prayer in a pastoral setting 3. To apply knowledge about various faith and human developmental theories to the pastoral setting
58 Instituto de Formación leadership skills necessary for Pastoral/Pastoral parish ministry Formation Institute (IFP/PFI) Admission Requirements The Instituto de Formación Pastoral/ Applicants must submit a Pastoral Formation Institute is a formal application and letters of two-year program of basic adult faith recommendation from the pastor/ formation – a tool for evangelization supervisor in the ministerial setting. and catechesis. The first year is An interview with the Program designed to give participants a Director is required. foundational understanding of the Catholic faith. The second year of the Certificate Requirements IFP/PFI includes basic pastoral skills. 1. Successful completion of required The program is offered in English areas of study and Spanish; it is referred to by both 2. Participation in retreats and its Spanish and English titles. As an seminars outreach ministry of Oblate School of Theology, the first year is conducted Continuing Education in a parish setting and the second Continuing Education at Oblate year classes are conducted at OST School of Theology provides a variety for urban students and at designated of learning opportunities to active regional centers for rural students. ministers and laity who are interested in updating their theology and keeping Goal abreast with developments in the To educate men and women for parish Church. ministry Oblate’s faculty offers short courses, seminars, workshops and lectures Student Learning during the fall and spring semesters Outcomes and during summer school. Visiting Upon graduation from the two-year faculty and resource persons are also certificate program the student will be invited to make presentations. Subjects able: include a wide range of topics related 1. To identify the general basic to spirituality, scripture, contemporary aspects of the Catholic faith social issues, and pastoral skills. 2. To illustrate the relevance of One CEU (Continuing Education spiritual formation to the Catholic Unit) can be awarded for attending 10 faith clock hours of a Continuing Education 3. To design a diversified approach offering. The School provides a to a personal prayer life including certificate verifying attendance. planning and leading public prayers in a parish setting 4. To apply basic pastoral and
59 Permanent Deacon Hispanic Summer Program Education Oblate School of Theology is a “An increasingly educated society and sponsor of the Hispanic Summer the new roles of leadership in diaconal Program, which takes place for two ministry require that a deacon be a weeks every summer at a different site knowledgeable and reliable witness in the United States or Puerto Rico. to the faith and a spokesman for the Hispanic students and others who are Church’s teaching. Therefore, the bilingual and who are committed to intellectual dimension of formation ministry among Hispanics can attend must be designed to communicate this academic program. Students knowledge of the faith and church may take two courses for two credits tradition that is “complete and each or one course for 3 credit hours. serious,” so that each participant Courses in the Hispanic Summer will be prepared to carry out his Program cover a wide range of the vital ministry.” National Directory theological curriculum, and are for the Formation, Ministry, and always taught from the perspective of Life of Permanent Deacons in the the Hispanic/Latino community. United States #118. Drawing from many years of preparing candidates for ordained ministry, Oblate School of Theology Renewal Ministries has developed a program for the permanent diaconate that addresses Oblate Renewal Center the theological formation of deacon In an effort to consolidate resources candidates in the Archdiocese of and give greater cohesion to the San Antonio, the Diocese of San diverse and complementary ministries Angelo and the Diocese of Lubbock. on the School campus, Oblate The Deacon Formation Program is Renewal Center (ORC) has merged a five-year program of formation with Oblate School of Theology. The including a propaedeutic year. Renewal Center’s address is 5700 Candidates meet for 8 hours of Blanco Road, San Antonio, Texas instruction on a given topic followed 78216-6615. (210) 349-4173. Fax: by additional spiritual, human and (210) 349-4281. pastoral formation provided by the Oblate School of Theology provides Diocese. the guidance, resources and support Oblate School of Theology selects for programs of the Oblate Renewal faculty, both full-time faculty Center (ORC), which helps all people and adjuncts. Spiritual directors, understand their relationships to mentors, facilitators of theological Christ and His Church; what it means reflection groups and supervisors of to be rooted in Gospel values and supervised ministry are selected and how to live those values. The Oblate assigned by the local diocese. Renewal Center provides a place and
60 an environment in which people can exclusive: women and men who personally experience the presence workwith and minister to other people. of Jesus, the Christ, in their lives and We presume that all ministries serving their world. the church and its mission have The Renewal facility is located pastoral implications. directly west of the campus and The Ministry to Ministers Sabbatical affords spiritual accompaniment, Program is designed with the seasoned retreats, conferences, workshops and minister/adult learner in mind. Mini seminars in response to the needs of courses and workshops are focused on the local Church. theological updating and renewal as Oblate Renewal Center upholds its well as pertinent topics in integrative long tradition of welcoming a wide spirituality. For those who wish, there variety of ecumenical groups, and is an opportunity to audit regular those people who are not already courses offered by the School and being reached by the Church, giving occasional programs at the Oblate distinctive emphasis to the regional Renewal Center. reality of the Southwest United States. The talented and skilled faculty of Oblate Renewal Center coordinates Oblate serves as a major resource and provides Engaged Encounter, one along with lecturers, program of the major marriage preparation presenters and spiritual directors who programs for the Archdiocese of San are brought to Ministry to Ministers Antonio. from the San Antonio region and around the nation. Ministry to Ministers Ministry to Ministers Sabbatical Holistic in its design, The Ministry Program is conducted twice a year. It to Ministers Sabbatical Program is a runs from approximately the middle four-month residential program. Its of January to the middle of May and focus is on the renewal of personal from the middle of August to the and spiritual growth, addressing the middle of December. There is the needs of body, mind and spirit. A key expectation that those who enroll and objective of Ministry to Ministers is are accepted will participate in the integration: the participants should be program the entire four months. able to assimilate and apply their four-month experience to their everyday living, wherever their future ministry takes them. The Ministry to Ministers Sabbatical Program seeks to serve men and women who have been engaged in pastoral ministry for a number of years. The term “pastoral ministry” is meant to be inclusive rather than
61 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
62 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS In accord with the Statement of Conversation Purpose, it is the objective of Oblate IPE 2640 Beginners Plus Intensive School of Theology to address the Pastoral English: Grammar & cultural dimensions of theology and Application pastoral ministry within the various IPE 2645 Beginners Plus Intensive courses rather than offering a separate Pastoral English: Phonetics & track of courses. A student chooses Conversation those courses which fit the program IPE 3640 Intermediate Intensive chosen for a particular form of Pastoral English: Grammar & ministry. Application Numbering System IPE 3645 Intermediate Intensive The first digit indicates the level of Pastoral English: Phonetics & the course. Undergraduate courses Conversation begin with “4” and “5”. Graduate IPE 3650 Intermediate Plus level courses begin with “6-9”. Intensive Pastoral English: At Oblate School of Theology “6” Grammar & Application courses include required introductory IPE 3655 Intermediate Plus courses for the degree programs; “7” Intensive Pastoral English: are regular advanced courses; “8” are Phonetics & Conversation seminars and workshops concerned IPE 4640 Advanced Intensive with special topics and involving Pastoral English: Grammar & substantial academic research; “9” are Application practica. The second digit indicates IPE 4645 Advanced Intensive the number of credit hours the course Pastoral English: Phonetics & awards. The third and fourth digits are Conversation the course identifiers and separators. IPE 4650 Advanced Plus Intensive Numbers after a dash are additional Pastoral English: Grammar & course identifiers. Application IPE 4655 Advanced Plus Intensive Pastoral English: Phonetics & UNDERGRADUATE COURSES Conversation Philosophy Intensive Pastoral English Program PL 4138, 4238, 4338 Selected Topics in Philosophy In collaboration with the Mexican American Catholic College (MACC) PL 4139, 4239, 4339 Selected Texts in Philosophy IPE 1640 Beginners Intensive Pastoral English: Grammar & PL 4310 The Philosophy of Human Application Person and Will IPE 1645 Beginners Intensive This course is an introduction to Pastoral English: Phonetics &
63 philosophical anthropology in the discussions of related issues. West. The nature, purpose, and PL 4322 Religious Experience potential of human life as perceived and the Development of American by Ancient Greeks, Scholastics, Thought and modern thinkers are examined. This course will examine the The student considers the relevance phenomena of religious experience of such visions for contemporary as it develops as a central theme in concerns. American thought. The primary PL 4313 Logic question the course will seek to This course will focus on conceptual explore will not only be the nature logic and on the three basic acts of religious experience, but of all of the human mind; namely, types of human experience since apprehension, judgment, and experience itself has become a “root reasoning. The main concern will metaphor” in American thought and be with deductive and inductive theology. As the students investigate reasoning. The course will the central theme of the course, they study various forms of fallacious will also be exposed to many other reasoning and different forms of ideas, debates, conceptual categories sophistical reasoning. and forms of critical discourse that PL 4314 Christian Ethical and have come to shape and pervade the Social Philosophy dominant ethos of American cultural The course studies major themes in life in this century. the ancient, medieval, modern, and PL 4323 History and Method of contemporary history of Western Christian Thought ethical and social-political thought. This course is an overview of The course includes theoretical and the most significant categories, practical discussion of conscience, methodologies, and issues of freedom, law, responsibility, virtue, Christian thought as they have and guilt. The impact of political developed historically since the philosophy on Catholic social first century. From philosophical teaching is also noted. perspectives with attention to the PL 4320 Modern and Political hermeneutics of such methodologies Philosophy the course discusses the relationship The course examines the major of philosophy to the sciences epistemological and metaphysical generally and to theologies in issues from the seventeenth to the particular. nineteenth centuries with a focus PL 4326 Ancient and Medieval on Descartes, Hume, and Kant. The Philosophy major issues in modern political The course is a survey of the history philosophy are considered through of philosophy in the West from a study of Hobbes, Locke, and the sixth century B.C. through Marx. The course includes critical the thirteenth century A.D. with
64 an emphasis on Plato, Aristotle, philosophy of language, the thought Stoicism, Augustine, Bonaventure, of the following thinkers will be Aquinas, and Scotus. The course studied: Wittgenstein, Heidegger, examines the major problems and Schleiermacher, Bultmann, themes of the period. Gadamer, and Ricoeur. Finally, PL 4327 Philosophical Foundations the impact of post-modern thought of Thomas Aquinas and issues on hermeneutics is This course will focus on the considered. theological patterns and the underlying philosophical principles Religious Studies of his most famous work, the Summa Theologiae. The course RS 4125 Rhetoric and Proclamation will investigate this work in its The course has been designed key areas and themes. Aquinas’ to assist the student in basic understanding of God, grace, communication skills, theory and Christian anthropology, the moral practice. This will be achieved life, the person of Jesus Christ, and by developing talents for public the work of the Holy Spirit will be proclamation through articulation examined; and his significance for practice, vocal exercises, contemporary theology and pastoral interpreting texts and dramatization practice will be explored. for oral proclamation. This course is meant to prepare the student for PL 4329 Contemporary Philosophy entrance into the homiletic course This course will survey the work offered by Oblate School of philosophical movements of the late Theology. nineteenth and twentieth centuries as they emerged on both the RS 4130, 4230, 4330 Selected Topics continent and in the United States. in Religious Studies It will, then, primarily examine RS 4214 Liturgical Celebration and phenomenology, pragmatism, Practice existentialism, analytic philosophy This course is an introduction to and aesthetics. The course will also basic principles, skills and resources investigate some emerging “third- which are needed for preparation world” philosophers who have had and celebration of Catholic Liturgy. an important impact on theology in Participants will become familiar the last twenty years. with basic forms and intentions PL 4333 Philosophical Hermeneutics of liturgical prayer by close This course examines critically examination of the various rites for theories of knowledge, past and which they are likely to have some present; truth, evidence, and responsibility. The course will also certitude. The various criteria of provide opportunity to practice interpretation are considered. Within liturgical skills. the confines of hermeneutics as a RS 4216 Seminar in Spirituality and
65 Liturgy life, the practice of virtue, and an An introduction to Spirituality and introduction to social justice. Part basic liturgical principles. Offered four which addresses one’s prayer only in Fall semesters. life is covered in the course dealing RS 4217 Seminar in Pastoral with the introduction to the spiritual Ministry life. An introduction to pastoral RS 4320/RS 4321 Spirituality and skills, includes a four-day live-in Spiritual Traditions I, II experience. Offered only in Spring A working definition of spirituality semesters. A special seminar for will be identified. Areas that assist presbyteral candidates designed or inhibit spiritual growth will be to provide for the integration of reviewed. The current understanding philosophical and theological of how human growth affects studies with their personal and spiritual growth will be studied. ministerial formation. The concept of the desert as it has RS 4312 Survey of Basic Theology I evolved and its place in current An introduction to contemporary spirituality will be reviewed. In theology in the areas of Scripture, addition, the course will examine Discipleship and Conversion, how spirituality impacts our Ecclesiology, and Ministry. Offered concept of time, sports, addiction, only in Fall semesters. and sexuality. The importance of spirituality in discernment, RS 4313 Survey of Basic Theology II architecture and liturgy will be A continuation of Survey I in the studied. areas of Church History, Culture and RS 4330 Teaching of the Church: Religion, Christology, sacraments, Vatican Council II and Moral Theology. Offered only This course is an introduction to in Spring semesters. the official teaching of the Church RS 4315 Catechism of the Catholic using the documents of Vatican II, Church I 1962-65. The goal is to examine This course will examine the first key documents and examine the two parts of the Catechism. These theological issues that relate to sections include the profession current Church teaching. Paul VI, of faith and the celebration of the in his address to Cardinal Pizzardo sacraments. Also included will be regarding the Conciliar documents discussions on the Sacred Liturgy on the Opening of the International and the Church. Congress on the Theology of Vatican II, September 21, 1966, in RS 4316 Catechism of the Catholic AAS, 59 (1966) wrote: “. . . should Church II be thought of as an impulse to a new This course will examine the third journey, not as a goal achieved.” part of the Catechism. This will include an introduction to the moral
66 present. While a primary focus is MASTER LEVEL COURSES upon the Catholic Church in the U.S., including the presence of various Catholic ethnic groups, Cultural and Historical especially the Irish and Hispanic, Studies there is also consideration of the CH 6310 Church History I: The place and displacement of the first Patristic Era native peoples and their religions, A study of the development of the predominant role and diversity Christian thought from Apostolic of Protestantism, the emergent times through the 4th century CE. Black Church in the U.S., and the The focus is on the early Church presence of non-Christian religions. Fathers and the theological concepts CH 7231 Historia Religiosa de found in their writing. México/Religious History of México CH 6311 Church History II: Holy Estudio historico de los procesos Roman Empire to the Present que han contribuido a la presente This course shall address the history realidad religiosa de México, of Christianity from the 5th century y en particular de las regiones CE to the present day. It includes central y norteña. Emphasis on the Church and Roman government, the Church’s sense of mission, the development of the papacy, the relations to indigenous cultures and Reformation and its leaders, The the emergent mestizo population, Catholic Reformation, The Council Church-State relations, the twentieth of Trent, Wesley and Methodism, century “social revolution,” and Jansenism, the French Revolution, the Protestant presence. Ofrecido developments in the Americas, Pius en espanol y/o inglés, segun los IX and Italian Unification, Leo participantes. XIII, Modernism, The First Vatican CH 7235 History of U.S. Hispanic/ Council, John XXIII and the Second Latino Christianity Vatican Council, John Paul II and This course studies the development New Evangelization, Ecumenism. It of Hispanic Christianity in the will begin with the use of history in territory of what is now the theology. mainland United States from the CH 7140/8140, 7240/8240, 7340/8340 1500s to the present. The purpose Selected Topics in Church History is to gain an understanding of that CH 7220 United States Religious experience and its diversity and History thus of the heritage and traditions A survey of the history of the of U.S. Latino/a Christians today. various faith traditions within the The Catholic experiences are the economic and multicultural realities primary focus, with secondary of a developing “American” attention to Protestant ones. Major identity, from colonial times to the themes include spiritualities; sense of mission; Church-State relations;
67 geographic expansion; relations ingles, según la capacidad de los with non-Hispanic populations; participantes. institutional development including organizational structures, Non Credit personnel, and finances; the various NC 9002 MAPM Pastoral Hispanic/Latino/a social and ethnic Practicum - Proposal experiences; and the shifting status of Hispanics within the NC 9003 MAPM Pastoral Christian institutions themselves. Practicum - Project Presented in English and/or Spanish, NC 9005 MAPM Pastoral depending on the participants. A Practicum - Continuation regional and ethnic perspective on Status CH 6311 Church History II: Holy NC 9025 MA (Theology) Scholarly Roman Empire to the Present, CH Paper 7231 Historia Religiosa de México/ Religious History of Mexico, and NC 9026 MA (Theology) Scholarly CH 7220 United States Religious Papers - Continuation Status History NC 9027 MA (Theology) Thesis Estudio histórico del desarrollo del - Continuation Status cristianismo hispano en el territorio NC 9028 MA (Spirituality) Thesis continental de lo que es ahora - Continuation Status los Estados Unidos Americanos desde el siglo XVI hasta el NC 9030 MDiv Integration of presente. Se busca entender aquella Theological Studies - experiencia y su diversidad para Continuation Status llegar a descubrir la herencia y las tradiciones de los cristianos latinos Pastoral Studies en los Estados Unidos de hoy día. El enfoque está puesto en las Catechetics experiencias católicas, sin olvidar PS 7142/8142, 7242/8242, 7342/8342 la influencia protestante. Entre los Selected Topics in Catechetics temas principales se destacan los PS 7340 Evangelization and Faith siguientes: espiritualidades; sentido Formation de misión; relaciones Iglesia- This course includes foundational Estado; expansion geográfica; themes in evangelization and relaciones con poblaciones no- faith formation. It seeks to assist hispanas; desarrollo institucional, participants in understanding the incluidas sus estructuras, personal, theological, theoretical and social- y finanzas; las diversas experiencias psychological foundations of sociales y culturales de los hispanos/ evangelization and faith formation latino/as; y el lugar social de los as well as offer principles, hispanos en las mismas instituciones methodologies, and skills for cristianas. Ofrecido en español y/o effective catechetical ministry in the
68 U.S. context. II, The People of God, and of PS 7260 Youth Ministry Book IV, The Sanctifying Office The course includes the study of the Church. Topics covered of youth ministry and church relate to Ecclesiology (TS 7315), documents; psychology and Theology of Priesthood (TS 7236), religious development of youth and Ecumenism (TS 7223), Christian young adults; developing a vision Initiation (TS 7331), Penance and of youth ministry; and collaborative Anointing of the Sick (TS 7332), planning and leadership and Eucharist (TS 7333). development with adult, youth and young adult leaders in ministry. General PS 7198/8198, 7298/8298, 7398/8398 Church Law Selected Topics in Supervision in PS 7125 Divorce/Annulment/ Ministry Remarriage PS 9895 Clinical Pastoral Education From the perspective of Vatican II, (CPE) the 1983 Code of Canon Law and The minister in training works in the current pastoral practice, this course basic CPE program at an accredited will address the breakdown of center. Three credit hours may be marriage and its effects in society, earned and applied to the MAPM. families and individuals. There will Three credit hours are given for a be a study of: the Church’s current unit of CPE, but not applied to the annulment procedures, dissolution Master of Divinity degree. of the marriage bond, marriage cases in the R.C.I.A. and pastoral Liturgy care of divorced and remarried PS 7109/8109, 7209/8209, 7309/8309 Catholics. Selected Topics in Liturgy PS 7225/8225, 7325/8325 Selected PS 8100/8101 Practicum in Topics in Church Law Presidential Leadership at Liturgy PS 7320 Church Law A special two-semester practicum/ This course provides the student seminar for candidates for Roman with an opportunity to examine Catholic priesthood (ordinarily in canonical issues useful to those the last year of course work) with preparing for pastoral ministry. special emphasis on the skills and Rather than an abstract outline of art for presiding at the celebration of principles of law, the study focuses Eucharist and other liturgical acts. on an interpretation and application (PS 8100 - A - First semester; PS of canon law for ministry in the 8101 - B - Second Semester) southwestern U.S.A. The basic content includes an overview of Pastoral Care the 1983 Code of Canon Law and, PS 6210 Hispanic Ministry in in particular, a treatment of Book the 21st Century (at the Mexican
69 American Catholic College - MACC) ministry. (1st semester) PS 6350 Basic Pastoral Care PS 6193 Orientation to Supervised A preparatory course to provide Ministry II (.5 cr. hr.) foundation for pastoral care This is a continuation of the in the context of family and orientation course. Upon completion parish; history of pastoral care; of PS 6192, the student is required early Christian writings, the to be in a supervised ministry hermeneutics of pastoral care, life placement. At that placement the cycle of individuals and families; student will engage in the practice theoretical, practical and theological of ministry with a designated considerations. supervisor and theological reflection PS 7159/8159, 7259/8259, 7359/8359 in a peer reflection group. The goal Selected Topics in Pastoral of the reflection is to develop a Counseling method of reflection that leads to integration. (Prerequisite: PS 6192 PS 7160/8160, 7260/8260, 7360/8360 Orientation to Supervised Ministry Selected Topics in Pastoral Studies I) PS 7351 Pastoral Counseling PS 9195 (Year 2 Theology - 1st sem.) An introduction to basic concepts Theological Field Education(1.5 cr. and skills of pastoral counseling hrs.) (both theological and psychological aspects), including relationships to PS 9295 (Year 2 Theology general pastoral care and spiritual - 2nd sem.)Theological Field direction. Emphasis is on the Education(1.5 cr. hrs.) person of the counselor and practice PS 9196 (Year 3 Theology - 1st through role playing of cases and sem.)Theological Field Education peer counseling. (Prerequisite: PS (1.5 cr. hrs.) 6350 Basic Pastoral Care) PS 9296 (Year 3 Theology - 2nd sem.)Theological Field Pastoral Formation Education(1.5 cr. hrs.) MDiv and MAPM – Seminarians The student is required to engage PS 6192 Orientation to Supervised in the practice of ministry in Ministry I (.5 cr. hr.) a supervised placement and An orientation course which theological reflection. Theological aims at understanding the nature reflection takes place on site with of Theological Field Education a ministry supervisor and in peer and Internship at Oblate School reflection groups at Oblate School of Theology. The focus will be of Theology. The goal of the on developing an awareness of reflection is to develop a method of the process of learning through reflection that leads to integration. supervision and theological (Prerequisite: Orientation to reflection on experiences in Supervised Ministry I & II)
70 PS 9699 Ministerial Internship PS 7181 Theological Reflection for Full-time involvement in ministry Pastoral Leadership 1st semester (1 under supervision includes training cr. hr.) for field instructors, professional PS 7182 Theological Reflection for consultancy services, growth Pastoral Leadership 2nd semester groups, lay committee involvement, (1 cr. hr.) and structured evaluations. Internship calls for extensive Preaching theological reflection. Twelve credit hours may be earned over PS 7138, 7238, 7338 Selected Topics two semesters but not applied to the in Preaching MDiv degree at OST. (Prerequisite: PS 7334 Introductory Preaching/ two years in graduate theology) Predicación Introductória MDiv Lay Students This course explores the basic homiletical process, including PS 6177 Pastoral Formation hermeneutics, communication Seminar I (. 25 cr. hrs.) strategies, ecclesial expectations, PS 7178 Pastoral Formation and ritual. Students will begin Seminar II (. 25 cr. hrs.) development of a theology of PS 7179 Pastoral Formation preaching and will seek to establish Seminar III (. 25 cr. hrs.) a discipline for preparation. Students will craft and preach PS 7180 Pastoral Formation several homilies. Critiques will be Seminar IV (. 25 cr. hrs.) made by the professor and peers. These seminars are the formation Audio visual recordings will be component for those students in the used as aids. (Prerequisite: RS 4125 Master of Divinity degree who are Rhetoric and Proclamation) not engaged in a formation process elsewhere. It addresses three areas: PS 7235 Liturgical Preaching/ Spirituality, Developing a Life of Predicación en la Liturgica Prayer, and Effective Structures for This course will be a practical Ministry. They include communal application of the art of prayer, retreats, and spiritual reading communication in English and among the requirements. Spanish to the unique, multifaceted social, cultural and psychological MAPM Lay Students environment of the assembled PS 6177 Pastoral Formation worshiping Hispanic/Latino Seminar I (1 cr. hr.) community for the purpose of This courses provides a context engaging that community in for both formation and theological experiencing the Word of God. The reflection for students in the MA emphasis will be on the pastoral in Pastoral Ministry program. settings and liturgical contexts for They include a supervised ministry homilies. (Prerequisite: PS 7334 component. Introductory Preaching/Predicación
71 Introductória) foundational concept meant in the lives of our biblical ancestors. The Scriptural Studies meaning of biblical justice will be SS 6200 Scriptural Hermeneutics determined by studying the concept This course is designed to help in various sections of Scripture, e.g., students interpret biblical passages. the creation accounts in Genesis, A student who has successfully the Exodus and sections of covenant completed this course should be legislation in the Torah, prophetic able to interpret a biblical text literature, wisdom literature, using the methods of Tiffany and the gospel of Luke, Pauline and Ringe in Biblical Interpretation: A apocalyptic literature. Implications Roadmap and Rhoads, Dewey and of biblical justice for the church and Michie: Mark as Story. In addition, world today will be discussed. some elements of Introduction SS 7211 Qoheleth and the Cowboy: to the Bible will be touched on Introduction to the Cultural including the canon, inspiration, Context of the Bible geography, archaeology, the A look at the differences historical critical method, and the between North-American and teaching of the Catholic Church on Mediterranean (Ancient Near- biblical interpretation. This course Eastern) approaches to life. The is a prerequisite for other biblical clash between American rugged courses at OST. individualism and Mediterranean SS 7110/8110, 7210/8210, 7310/8310 group-centeredness creates static Selected Topics in Sacred Scripture that interferes with our reception of biblical communication. This course SS 7124/8124, 7224/8224, 7324/8324 compares and contrasts American Selected Topics in the Old Testament and Mediterranean approaches to SS 7130/8130, 7230/8230, 7330/8330 value, relationships, education, Selected Topics in the New status, roles and time-orientation in Testament order to be able to understand the Bible in its own context. SS 7129 The Psalms The Psalter: its composition and SS 7213 Wisdom Literature of the development; various literary Old Testament devices used. Special attention General introduction to the Wisdom will be given to the categories and Literature of the Ancient Near East nature of the Psalms. In the Psalms and of Israel especially. Introduction we meet the Israelite/Jew in his to the individual authors and books, attitudes towards God, the covenant, with the accent on their active role the world. in the growth of Israel’s religious thinking and in the opening up of SS 7208 Biblical Roots of Justice new vistas. (Prerequisite: SS 6200 This course will explore the roots Scriptural Hermeneutics) of justice and determine what this
72 SS 7215 Storyteller’s Art in the This course aims at familiarizing Bible students with the Book of A recent trend in Bible study Revelation (the Apocalypse). has been the fruitful application Introductory issues such as sources, of modern studies of the art of genres, structure, authorship, storytelling (narratology) to the provenance, date, intended stories told in the Bible. This audience are looked at as well as course will read Bible stories using proposed reconstructions of the the tools provided by this recent social and religious setting of the approach. We will also sample some Johannine community as reflected representative authors who use in the work. The Apocalypse is this technique in order to shed new looked at against the background light on both the Old and the New of the Old Testament as well as Testament narratives. pseudoepigraphical and apocryphal SS 7229 Praying the Psalms with writings, the Dead Sea Scrolls Christ in the Liturgy and Targums. Contemporary An introduction to the psalms with interpretations of the Book of special emphasis on their use in the Revelation (does it tell us that the liturgy. Official church documents world is soon to end?) are also will be examined for their teaching examined. on the use of the psalms in the SS 7237 Acts of the Apostles liturgy. Interpretations of the This course will explore Luke’s psalms by the church fathers will be second volume, the Acts of the looked at. Apostles. Attention will be given to: SS 7230 Models of Discipleship in 1) reviewing various hermeneutical the New Testament approaches that will be used during The course will explore the rich, the semester; 2) establishing varied, and challenging models of historical and literary context for discipleship that appear in the books Acts; 3) discussing the text of the of the New Testament including the Acts of the Apostles by way of gospels, the letters of 1 Corinthians, an exegetical/literary approach; Philippians, Colossians, James, 4) identifying and studying the Hebrews, and the book of theological themes that emerge from Revelation. We will identify the study of the text; 5) discussing the various aspects of Christian the impact of Lucan theology found discipleship as understood by the in the Acts of the Apostles on 21st various early Christian communities century Christian life and ministry and discuss how each first century with attention given to social model can be re-appropriated in location. Christian life and ministry in the SS 7242 The Parables of Jesus Church and world today. In order to appreciate the parables SS 7235 The Apocalypse in the synoptic gospels, this course will begin by exploring
73 the role of storytelling and the exegesis of passages in major nature of narrative theology. The sections of the gospels highlighting history of parable interpretation similarities and differences. and contemporary approaches to Consideration will be given to the interpretation will be examined. theological aspects of each gospel Individual parables will be studied with emphasis on Christology with attention to the challenging and the theology of discipleship/ invitation to conversion and ecclesiology. The significance of the Christian commitment that these synoptic gospels for contemporary stories offered to the original faith life will be addressed with audiences and continue to extend emphasis on social location. to us today. (Prerequisite: SS 6300 (Prerequisite: SS 6200 Scriptural Introduction to Sacred Scripture) Hermeneutics) SS 7311 The Torah SS 7333 Johannine Literature Introduction to the Pentateuch. An introduction to the literature Exegesis of Genesis 1-11. The produced by the “Beloved Disciple” Covenant and the Ten Words of and his followers, i.e., The Gospel Yahweh. (Prerequisite: SS 6200 of John, the Johannine Letters Scriptural Hermeneutics) and the Apocalypse. Proposed reconstructions of the history of SS 7312 Prophetic and Historical the Johannine community will Literature of the Old Testament be examined for their value in This course is a general introduction illuminating the background of to the origins of prophecy and its these writings, their audience and role in the development of Old purpose. The distinctive themes of Testament thought. The prophets this literature, such as Light and will be studied in their historical Life, Signs, the Hour, and Glory as context within Samuel, Kings, well as the techniques of irony and and Chronicles. The focus will be misunderstanding will be examined. particularly on the books of Amos, (Prerequisite: SS 6200 Scriptural Hosea, Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel Hermeneutics and SS 7331 Synoptic because of their importance for Gospels) ministry. (Pre-requisite: SS 6200 Scriptural Hermeneutics and Torah) SS 7336 Pauline Literature This course will provide an SS 7331 Synoptic Gospels overview of Pauline literature as This course is designed to introduce well as an in-depth discussion the student to the synoptic gospels of 1 Corinthians, Galatians, and and their background in the first Philippians. Theological themes that century world. Attention will be emerge from the texts of the letters given to various approaches to will be discussed with emphasis interpretation (e.g., historical, on Christology and ecclesiology. narrative, reader-response/social The relevance of Paul’s work for location). Time will be spent on contemporary faith communities
74 will be addressed with attention to of human genital sexuality and social location. (Prerequisite: SS the integration of sexuality in 6200 Scriptural Hermeneutics) the totality of the human person. (Prerequisite: TS 6350 Foundations Biblical Languages of Moral Theology) SS 7260 Biblical Hebrew I TS 7253 Bioethics/Healthcare Ethics This course is a basic introduction SS 7261 Biblical Hebrew II to the critical issues raised by the (Prerequisite: SS 7260 Biblical development of bioethics, medical Hebrew I) technology and the health care system as it exists in the United SS 7250 Biblical Greek I States. The use of case studies will SS 7251 Biblical Greek II enable health care professionals (Prerequisite: SS 7250 Biblical and those in ministry to develop a Greek I) methodology to understand these issues. Recent church documents Theological Studies on bioethics and medical ethics will also be studied. Moral Theology TS 7256 Ministerial Ethics In the past, society chose to give TS 6350 Foundations of Moral special recognition and unique Theology privileges to the members of the This course studies the nature and traditional professions -- law, methodology of Christian ethics and medicine, and ministry. In return, its historical development within the professionals recognized that they Roman Catholic tradition. Through an had a fiduciary responsibility exploration of foundational concepts to individuals and to society and of contemporary thought within and developed their own ethical moral theology, students are helped standards. In recent years, political, to understand the human person as a economic and social forces have moral agent. converged which have caused TS 7157/8157, 7257/8257, 7357/8357 society to re-examine the status of Selected Topics in Moral Theology the professions. Levels of trust have TS 7252 Theology of Human eroded and society often questions Sexuality the motivation of professional A survey of the theology and persons and the ability of the psychology of human sexuality professions to develop their own including the meaning of intimacy ethical standards. and of human genital sexuality; TS 7257 Theological Ethics of theological-pastoral considerations Thomas Aquinas of the various manifestations of This course addresses the human sexuality and the expression major aspects of St. Thomas’
75 understanding of moral theology, application in collaborative groups including his sources, method to a contemporary social problem and themes. Special attention in San Antonio. Due to the global will be given to his treatises on nature of the Roman Catholic happiness, grace, virtues and vices, Church and the increasingly global and law. Students will make a dimensions of contemporary U.S. short presentation applying one life, this course will also engage aspect of the Thomistic legacy various global moral concerns. to a contemporary ethical issue. (Prerequisite: TS 6350 Foundations (Prerequisite: TS 6350 Foundations of Moral Theology) of Moral Theology) TS 7259 Sound Bytes or Sound Sacramental Theology Decisions: Political Responsibility TS 7137/8137, 7237/8237, 7337/8337 In an era when the political process Selected Topics in Sacraments has come to be characterized by TS 7236 Theology of Ministerial curt rhetoric and jingoism, this Priesthood course will examine the theological The course is divided into two parts. and philosophical issues of the The first explores the tradition relationship between public life and of the ministerial priesthood as it Christian responsibility. Through has developed within Catholicism readings and analysis of social prior to the Second Vatican issues in American Culture, the Council. Part Two focuses upon participants will come to a better the rearticulated presbyterate in our understanding of the Church’s call postconciliar era and its ongoing for full political responsibility. emergence through the present TS 7350 Catholic Social Thought day. Contemporary questions This course is a basic presentation with connections to ecclesiology, of Catholic Social Morality, spirituality, mission and pastoral covering the theoretical, historical ministry will be explored in relation and practical aspects of the social to Roman Catholic ministerial teaching of the Church, especially priesthood. (Prerequisite: TS 7311 through its encyclicals and Christology: Jesus Christ and documents. Emphasis is placed Human Redemption) on the theological and ethical TS 7331 Liturgy and Theology of foundations which are necessary for Christian Initiation: Baptism and a pastorally sensitive social ethics. Confirmation When possible, experts in fields An examination of the experience which pertain to contemporary of Christian conversion as it social issues are invited to engage is sacramentalized in Baptism with students. One component of and Confirmation. Historical, the course learning is devoted to sacramental, and liturgical sources the study of the method of “reading will be used in the study, and special the signs of the times” and its
76 emphasis will be given to the study begins with a survey of the reformed Roman Catholic Rites of development of the theology of Adult Catechumenate and Initiation. marriage, with particular emphasis This course also serves as the on the contributions of Vatican II introduction to sacramental theology and subsequent church documents. and should normally be taken first Students will study current theological in that sequence. writings, along with a discussion of TS 7232 Liturgy and Theology of some contemporary theological and the Sacraments of Healing: Penance pastoral issues. and Anointing of the Sick The course also examines the An examination of the theology, canonical norms on marriage, processes, liturgy and pastoral including those which relate to: reality of sacramental healing in the nature of marriage, pastoral the church. The study will involve preparation, impediments to marriage, consideration of historical and matrimonial consent and canonical contemporary perspectives and will form. Special pastoral concerns are: lead to critical pastoral reflection marriage in the Mexican-American on the demands of this ministry. culture and the procedures of the Special attention will be given the marriage tribunal. Issues treated relate revised rites of Penance and Pastoral to PS 8252 Marriage and Family Care and Anointing of the Sick. This Counseling. (Prerequisite: PS 7320 course presupposes TS 7331 and is Church Law) ordinarily taken after participation in a summer quarter of CPE or its Spirituality equivalent. TS 7183/8183, 7283/8283, 7383/8383 TS 7333 Liturgy and Theology of Selected Topics in Spirituality Eucharist TS 6260/6360 Introduction to A systematic, historical and liturgical Christian Spirituality study of the meaning and content of An introduction to the terminology, the Church’s Eucharistic faith and issues, and challenges pertinent to the pastoral, social and ecclesial the practice of and the theological implications of the present teaching reflection on spirituality in the and practice of Eucharist within the Christian tradition. A survey of context of the renewal of liturgical life the main elements of spirituality in the Roman communion. (Ordinarily in the Hebrew and Christian presumes a previous course in Scriptures. Aspects of spirituality Sacramental Theology). in Christian antiquity, the TS 7335 Christian Marriage: Middle Ages, the Reformation Theological and Canonical Aspects period and contemporary times. This course treats the sacrament Particular attention will be given of marriage from both theological to the expression of spirituality and canonical perspectives. The by some of the important figures and movements in the history of
77 Christianity. A theological synthesis devotion to the Sacred Heart, of the personal spiritual journey. “preventive pedagogy” etc.) TS 7261 Earth Insights: A Nature- will serve as backdrop for the Based Christian Spirituality exploration of central Salesian Building on the work of Teilhard themes as resources for vibrant de Chardin, this course draws contemporary living and ministry. from Christian Tradition and TS 7365 Reading Religious contemporary science to explore Experience & Discernment of the Christian journey. In this course Spirits students will reflect on the relevance TS 7369 Overview of History of of dynamics that occur at all levels Christian Spirituality of creation (Cosmic, Earth, and A survey of the history of Christian Human) and apply them to the spirituality from the early apostolic Christian spiritual path. The work of period through the patristic, Brian Swimme, Steven Chase, and medieval, modern and contemporary Brennan Hills form the backbone of eras. The course offers a more in- the course. depth examination of certain key TS 7283 Salesian Spirituality moments and persons and their This course is designed to introduce lasting contribution to the ongoing students to the Salesian tradition, Christian tradition. Students one of the most attractive and will also be expected to read and accessible “schools” of Christian critically appraise one classical spirituality. Founded in the 17th work of Christian spirituality from a century by Francis de Sales and provided list. Jane de Chantal, the tradition has TS 7370 Fundamental Principles of taken many forms - lay, ordained, Spiritual Direction monastic and apostolic –all of This introductory graduate course which share a particular quality of will enable the student to explore heart. Attention will be given to the process of Spiritual Direction. It the varied global expressions the will involve one in the skills needed Salesian spirit has taken: among to help others with their religious them the Visitation of Holy Mary, experience, including prayer. Basic the Salesian family of Don Bosco, listening and counseling skills will the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, be practiced. Selected related topics the Fransalian Missionaries, and including the theological contexts the Daughters of St. Francis de of spirituality, integration, ministry Sales. Seminal texts such as the and professional ethics as related to Introduction to the Devout Life Spiritual Direction, the difference and the founders’ letters of spiritual between Spiritual Direction and direction, as well as the lives of Pastoral Counseling, and the notable figures in the tradition, complex issues of when and how and characteristic practices (e.g. to refer one to counseling will be the practice of the “little virtues,”
78 discussed. exploitation, and healing. TS 7370 Integration of Psychology TS 7373 Classical Christian Writers II and Spirituality TS 7374 Mysticism This course will explore the This course will investigate the relationship between spirituality highest stage of spirituality which is and psychology. It will examine mysticism. Although comparisons the historical notions of self, will be made with Eastern psyche, soul and spirit and relate Mysticism, emphasis is placed them to the investigations of on the historical, theological and theologians and psychologists in psychological aspects of mysticism. our contemporary setting. It will give a historical framework for TS 7376 Biblical Foundations of these terms and present students Spirituality with the key schools of thought This course will explore the role of that have shaped contemporary Scripture in Christian spirituality. application of the terms. Material It will examine both the Hebrew covered will include the origin Scriptures and the New Testament of the terms “soul”, “psyche” and their contributions to Christian and “spirit” in classical and early spirituality. Material covered will Christian usage; the Desert tradition; include a brief introduction to medieval understandings of the self, biblical hermeneutics and criticism; especially in the writings of Teresa the relationship between spirituality of Avila and John of the Cross.; and discipleship; the spirituality Freud, Jung and contemporary of Jesus; Pauline understanding of analytical schools; spiritual the terms “spirit” and “flesh; and direction and its relationship to some of the ways Scripture has been psychoanalysis and counseling; used in various Christian spiritual the discernment of spirits; and the traditions. Special emphasis will re-emergence of “soul” language in be given to the early chapters of contemporary psychology. Genesis, the Song of Solomon, the Psalms, the Gospels, and the Pauline TS 7371 Classical Christian Writers I letters and their contributions to TS 7372 John of the Cross Christian spirituality. An introduction to the spirituality TS 7378 John of the Cross – The of the Spanish mystic, John of Living Flame of Love the Cross. The course will be a The spirituality of the Spanish commentary on his two major mystic, John of the Cross. This works, The Ascent to Mount course will be a textual commentary Carmel and The Dark Night of on his final and most synthetic the Soul, with special explication work, The Living Flame of Love, on John’s concepts of prayer, highlighting the relation of his spiritual direction, and religious thought to great thinkers, religious experience of spirits, loving without and secular, with special explication
79 on some of his key concepts: Ignatius’ spirituality. It will focus religious experience, grace, prayer, on Ignatius’ world view, spiritual discernment of spirits, spiritual experiences and sources that shaped direction, healing, and paschal his spirituality. It is an introduction transformation. to the Spiritual Exercises of St. TS 7383 “Love is God’s Meaning”: Ignatius, but is not a retreat, nor The Spiritual Path of the English a training program for spiritual Mystics directors. Each session explores This course explores how the the historical context, theology and extraordinary flowering of mystical practice of Ignatius. Case studies writing in late medieval England and role plays will be used to has the power to nourish our illustrate the material. contemporary spirituality. The TS 7383 The Spirituality and women and men writers pursued a Thought of Thomas Merton spiritual path and quest for meaning This course is designed to cover in deeply unsettled times (war, the many salient features of plague, economic disturbance, Merton’s writing by exploring social protest and major divisions select passages drawn from his in the Church) which strangely diaries/journals, letters and poetry. resonate with our own age. The A deeply and accomplished man writers have unique voices but share of letters, Merton’s spiritual quest important values. They write for is meticulously recorded in his individual spiritual seekers, in the numerous books. If spiritual vernacular, with spiritual directness autobiography is his preferred based on experience, and their métier then a careful analysis of the teachings have a clear practical primary genres he opted to write in purpose. The course focuses on the will reveal the depths and struggles two popular and contrasting texts, of his spiritual maturation. Julian of Norwich’s “Showings” TS 7383 G.K. Chesterton, and the anonymous “Cloud of C.S. Lewis, and the Christian Unknowing”, and their practical Imagination and theologically-rich spiritual This course will explore the life teachings. In very distinctive ways, and thought of two outstanding each proposes a contemplative path twentieth-century writers, find of desire and love and that love is commonalities in their thinking, and also God’s “meaning”. unearth the various riches of their TS 7383 Introduction to Ignatian spiritual and literary legacies. Spirituality St. Ignatius of Loyola believed that TS 7383 Franciscan Spirituality: we can find God in the events of From God, To God, Through Christ everyday life. This course explores Franciscan spirituality holds an this pivotal insight and provides important place in any study a practical introduction to St. of Roman Catholic, Christian,
80 or world spirituality. This the biblical and later Christian spirituality, which traces its origins reflection, especially the major to the understanding of God, of conciliar statements, upon divine creation, and of human beings first revelation and Christian faith, enunciated by Francis of Assisi and and a systematic treatment of then elaborated by those inspired by the key themes: Jesus Christ as him, has for eight centuries given fullness and mediator, faith and faith-filled insight to millions of reason, Tradition and Scripture, people, sent missionaries to every dogmatic development, magisterium corner of the world, given rise to and sensus fidei, infallibility. countless pieces of art, and led to Attention throughout to theological far-reaching social movements. No methodology. study of Christian spirituality is TS 6301 Revelación y fe complete without some knowledge Desarrollo histórico de la reflexión of Franciscan spirituality, and in a bíblica y cristiana, en especial de los city named for a Franciscan saint decretos conciliares mayores, sobre and in a region first evangelized by la revelación divina y la fe cristiana, Franciscan missionaries, spiritual y una reflexión sistemática sobre literacy demands some knowledge los temas fundamentales: Jesucristo of Franciscan spirituality! The como plenitud y mediador, fe course will consist of a close y razón, Tradición y Escritura, reading of Franciscan sources, desarrollo del dogma, el magisterio written individual reflections and y el sentido de la fe, infalibilidad. group discussion of their meaning Teniendo siempre en mente la in the light of background lecture metodología teológica. presentations. TS 6305 Introduction to Missiology: TS 7388 Genius Born of Anguish: Culture and Religion The Spirituality of Henri Nouwen An interdisciplinary introduction This course is designed to explore to the relations among culture, the life and spirituality of the Dutch religion, and social groups, with priest/psychologist Henri Nouwen. a view toward Christian mission Key concepts in his thinking in the United States. Through a – “wounded healer,” “the First guided process of discernment, Love,” and befriending one’s death the participants study and share – will be examined in the context their own cultural origins, the of several of his seminar works, the varieties of intercultural relations, evolution of his ideas, the struggles the development of the question of his spirit. of Gospel and culture within Christianity, philosophical and Systematic Theology theological approaches to culture TS 6301 Theology of Revelation and in recent church pronouncements, Faith and the relations of Christianity The historical development of and culture in the dominant and
81 Hispanic United States cultures. attention to cultural and gender This course focuses on a crucial issues. A Roman Catholic focus contemporary issue in the reflection with ecumenical and interfaith on Theology of Revelation and Faith perspectives. Mary in the New (TS 6301), that is, the contextual Testament, the Eastern and Western aspect of faith and theology. It also traditions, Marian apparitions. provides a general introduction TS 7223 Ecumenism to the cultural dynamic of the A study of the movement for United States as a basis for the Christian unity, with particular contextualized pastoral orientation attention to the participation of of the entire curriculum. the Roman Catholic Church. It TS 7125/8125, 7225/8225/ 7325/8325 includes such items as historical Selected Topics in Systematic survey of the movement, theology, Theology issues, developments in theological TS 7220 Elements of Mission dialogue and activity, models of This course is an introductory unity, relationships with particular overview of the history and churches and religious groups, theology of the Christian mission practical ecumenism at the local from its earliest beginnings to the level. (Prerequisite: Ordinarily present. It will include discussion presumes some background in on topics ranging from the vital Ecclesiology) questions raised by inter-religious TS 7224 World Religions dialogue, the ecumenical movement, Surveys the histories, personalities, and their relationship with modern sacred texts, rituals, devotions, approaches to missionary activity. and customs of the world’s It incorporates an emphasis of the major non-Christian religions. analytical tools provided by cultural Particularly addresses Judaism, anthropology as an important aspect Islam, Buddhism, Confucianism, of the “inculturation of the faith.” In and Hinduism. From theological each of these ways, a sound general and pastoral perspectives, considers understanding of the present status the importance of understanding, of missionary activity and modern appreciating, and respectfully missionary approaches become a assessing such faiths in light of basis for future understandings of Christian revelation, ecumenism, mission in the life of the Church. and evangelization. (Prerequisite: An introduction to TS 7225 Vatican Council II theology) A theological study of Vatican TS 7222 Marian Theology Council II (1962-1965) as the major A biblical, historical, and constitutive event of the Roman contemporary investigation of the Catholic Church in the twentieth devotional and doctrinal place century. Designed as an experience of Mary in the life of faith, with of “re-living” the Council, the
82 course examines the historical between Catholic tradition and and theological situation leading recent scientific revelations about up to the Council, the leadership creation. In it, we will develop dynamics and theological discussion a methodology to explore the which brought about the final magnificence of creation, the documents, and how the Council current ecological crisis, and the has since been implemented and response of recent Catholic theology received. and spirituality. Seeing new insights TS 7225 St. Augustine: Philosopher about creation through the lens of – Theologian – Pastor Catholic tradition will deepen our The course guides students in experience of God in creation and the study of the life and works of call us to a compassionate care of all St. Augustine as a philosopher, creation. a theologian, and a pastor. The TS 7311 Christology: Jesus Christ course particularly focuses on his and Human Redemption philosophical view of Christian A systematic and critical study of doctrines and the controversies the the central Christian belief in Jesus Church faced at the time (especially as the Christ. The study explores against the Manicheans, Donatists, the New Testament basis for this and Pelagians). The course also belief and conciliar developments explores the pastoral care expected of Christological doctrines, and from the bishop and the preacher as attempts to retrieve critically these contained in Augustine’s letters and traditions in order to mediate them sermons. to contemporary faith experiences. TS 7226 Toward a Contemporary Also, included in the study are Theology of Religious Life representative contemporary This course explores scriptural, Christologies. (Prerequisite: historical and theological elements ordinarily taken subsequent to the of religious life with attention to Synoptic Gospels.) the signs of the times for religious TS 7313 Christian Anthropology: life in a contemporary and global The Transformation of Humanity context. Topics include: 1) various An examination of what it means forms of religious life and the to be human from a Christian historical situations that gave rise perspective. Our current condition to them, 2) the understanding leads us inevitably to seek to of the vows and how these are penetrate the mystery of our ancient expressed in different contexts, and origins, our history, and our future 3) religious life in the world and destiny. The principal themes church today. are thus those of human being TS 7257 A Catholic Understanding as divinely created and graced, of Religion and Ecology sinful and redeemed, and called to This course will be a conversation fulfillment in God. Attention to the contemporary dimensions of culture
83 will be offered during the course. interpretation and translation of TS 7314 God in the Christian the Song of Songs reaches back to Tradition: The Mystery of the the early Middle Ages and moves Triune God forward through the period called A systematic and critical study of the “Convivencia,” when the the basic Christian belief in the Jewish, Arab and Christian cultures Mystery of God - One and Three. lived together in relative harmony. The study traces the theology and Later, this interpretative tradition doctrine of God from its biblical flourished during the 15th and 16th foundations through the Western centuries, when it had a profound philosophical traditions to the influence on the mysticism of John present. The God question in the of the Cross, Theresa of Avila and present day is examined in the other mystics through the work face of contemporary atheism of Benito Arias Montano, Luis de and secularism and in relation to Leon and lesser known biblical its implication for personal and scholars. Translations into Spanish communitarian faith. of the Song of Songs eventually found their way into the settlements, TS 7315 Theology of Church and monasteries and convents in the Ministry New World—a fact recorded in the This course is a systematic study archives of the Spanish Inquisition. of the reality of church and of ministry in the church. The method This course provides an introduction of the course will involve critical to the Hispanic tradition of examination of important historical translation and interpretation of the models and visions of church Song of Songs, which had a direct and ministry in biblical, patristic, impact on the spirituality of Golden magisterial and conciliar sources. Age Spain. It will focus on the 16th The purpose of the course is to assist century translations of Fray Luis participants in the development of de León and his precursors—who their own ecclesiology and theology pioneered the use of the Hebrew of ministry and pastoral office text and its translation into emerging especially as these are experienced “Castellano” or modern Spanish. It in the environment of the southwest will also look at the appropriation United States. of the Song in the Hispanic mystical tradition—particularly in the works Interdisciplinary Studies of St. John of the Cross and Theresa of Avila. Note: This course can be TS 7370/SS 7370 Spanish Mystics, taken for credit in either biblical Biblical Interpretation and the studies or spirituality. Songs of Songs The Song of Songs is a seminal TS 8296 MDiv Integration of text both in biblical interpretation Theological Studies and spirituality. The Hispanic Final qualifying project for candidates for the MDiv degree. The
84 topic is selected by the participants appropriate pastoral initiatives. with a view toward the pastoral integration of the major areas of the PSC 8302 Practical Theology as MDiv curriculum focused upon a Critical Reflection on Particular particular pastoral concern. Contexts An examination of classical and Practicum/Thesis contemporary sources related to TS 9377 MA (Spirituality) Thesis/ assessing various ways by which Project personal, social, and religious concepts encounter biblical, TS 9379 Practicum in Theological doctrinal and secular paradigms in Education and Scholarship the formation of theology. Particular Supervised praxis-oriented theory attention to the contextual features and methods of teaching, evaluation, of pastoral theology. Focused on research, and creative expression in students’ previous and anticipated the setting of graduate theological ministerial experience. study and ministerial formation. Prerequisites: 30 graduate credit PSC 8303 Hermeneutics of hours of theology or related areas. Scripture in Ministry Approval of the instructor required An introduction to exegetical and prior to registration. Student’s hermeneutical methodologies for schedule must be open during the using Scripture in theologically periods of the instructor’s other addressing ethical questions courses. (For OST students only.) currently faced in the practice of ministry. TS 9681 MA (Theology) Thesis PSC 8304 Theological Integration for Ministry Seminar DOCTORAL COURSES An evaluation of students’ depth of theological insight in relation to ministry in order to ascertain Core Courses whether they have attained that level of knowledge, theoretical PSC 8301 Use of Social Sciences in clarity, and competence in methods Practical Theology and models within their particular A study of theological reflection context, commensurate with the models and an introduction to highest earned degree for the basic qualitative research methods profession and practice of ministry. pertinent to ministry. These models (This is usually the student’s last and methods are integrated to assist course.) the student in identifying theological PSC 9001 Proposal Writing and social issues inherent to the Following the completion of the pastoral challenges of ministry, in six academic courses, the student turn assisting in the development of has a one year period in which to
85 submit the proposal for the doctoral for the Doctor of Ministry degree, project. During this one-year period, the style and form of the project must the student registers each semester conform to the guidelines specified in for PSC 9001. If a student requires the Doctor of Ministry Handbook. The more than two semesters to finish Doctoral Project may be submitted the proposal, she or he will register in a language other than English with for PSC 9002 Continuation Status: the written consent of the program Proposal Writing until the proposal director. Upon completion, a copy of is accepted. the project will be made available in PSC 9601 Doctoral Project I the school’s library. For additional (Pastoral Project) information, please consult the Doctor of Ministry Handbook. PSC 9602 Doctoral Project II (Professional Paper) CONCENTRATION COURSES Doctoral Project I and II constitute the major qualifying requirement SPIRITUAL FORMATION IN THE for the Doctor of Ministry degree LOCAL COMMUNITY and comprise two interrelated components: the pastoral project PTF 8305 Faith Development and the professional paper. Often, An advanced study of individual a student’s work in the two areas and corporate faith development occurs concurrently. Descriptions of utilizing psychological, theological, these components are provided in and spiritual tools. Attention is the Doctor of Ministry Handbook. given to cultural and generational issues, as well as the use of In the first semester following the technology as a resource for approval of the student’s Doctor of faith development. Historical Ministry proposal, the student will and contemporary movements register for PSC 9601, Doctoral are addressed. The study and Project I. In the second semester, application of particular schools the student will register for Doctoral of thought to particular ministerial Project II. Following this first year, all issues is integral to the course. students who have not completed their Doctoral Project will register for PSC PTF 8306 Spirituality and Culture 9003, Continuation Status: Doctoral Examination of cultural issues Project Research/ Writing. They will as they impact the minister do so in each subsequent semester and the community in the until the project is completed. process of professional level spiritual formation. Attention is Prior to the completion and approval given to the influence of race, of the Doctoral Project, a student’s ethnicity, generation, and gender. academic transcript must show International, national and regional enrollment in both Doctoral Project I determinants of culture are and II. considered, as well the effects of As the final qualifying component pluralism and cultural transition
86 on multi-cultural and cross- be examined for their contributions cultural awareness. Secularity and to Latino/Latina spirituality. other cultural elements that both challenge and inform spirituality are PASTORAL LEADERSHIP IN examined. THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY U.S. HISPANIC/LATINO(A) (Under development – see website for MINISTRY CONCENTRATION latest information) PTH 8305 Contemporary Issues in PTA 8305 Contemporary Issues in Hispanic/Latino(a) Ministry Black Church Ministry In this course the participants This seminar is an investigation of deepen their investigation of their contemporary pastoral, theological, chosen pastoral topics within the cultural, and ministerial issues context of the major contemporary confronting African American realities in Hispanic/Latino(a) communities today. This course ministry in the United States. helps students develop a framework The changing demographics. The for confronting the complexity increasing diversity of Hispanic/ of issues that arise in the Black Latino(a) national origins, community with a view to religious affiliations, cultural developing/designing multifaceted identities, generations, and social pastoral responses consistent with classes. Historical backgrounds, perspectives and practices that draw immigration issues, and intra and from the best of African American extra-group relations. Spirituality, Christian values, moral approaches, worship, and religious movements. and liberating vision. Community building, leadership development, and social action. PTA 8306/DSE 8308 Contemporary African American Spiritualties PTH 8306/DSE 8307 Contemporary Hispanic/Latino(a) Spiritualities SPIRITUALITY AND MINISTRY An investigation of the contemporary trends in and PTS 8305/DSC 7301 History of important roots of Hispanic/ Christian Spirituality Latino(a) Catholic spiritualties See description under PhD in in the United States. Data on Spirituality. contemporary attitudes and PTS 8306/DSC 7303 Contemporary traditional roots and patterns Spirituality are surveyed, and the impact of See description under PhD in modern society and evangelical Spirituality Protestantism analyzed. PTS 8307/DSC 7302 Hermeneutics Contemporary ecclesial movements of Religious Experience (e.g. Cursillo, ACTS, Marriage See description under PhD in Encounter), official Church Spirituality directives, and lay spiritualties will
87 CONTINUATION STATUS Since registration in this status DMin students must be registered each indicates an interruption in the session for a course, Doctoral Project student’s work, OST faculty will I or Doctoral Project II to maintain generally not work with a student current status in the DMin program. during this period. If not registered for the above, the student then registers for one of the following continuance classifications. Doctor of Philosophy (Spirituality) PSC 9002 Continuation Status: Proposal Writing Core Courses A student enrolls in this status if the one-year period for submission DSC 6301 Pro-Seminar of a doctoral proposal has expired History and nature of the academic and the student requires more time study of spirituality, including for the completion of a doctoral a consideration of the role of proposal. The student continues second order reflection on spiritual to register for this status until the experience. Research tools and doctoral proposal is accepted. resources. Methodologies and multi-disciplinary approaches PSC 9003 Continuation Status: in spirituality studies with Doctoral Project Research/Writing the identification of their Status presuppositions and limitations. A student requiring more than two Critical and constructive reading academic semesters to complete of historical documents. Nature, the requirements for either PSC purpose and writing of a doctoral 9601 Doctoral Project I or PSC dissertation. Identification of 9602 Doctoral Project II registers research subjects of interest for this status in the subsequent to seminar participants and of semesters after one’s enrollment in methodologies appropriate to those the aforementioned courses until the subjects. Doctoral Project is completed. DSC 6302 Foundations for a PSC 9005 Extended Status Contemporary Spirituality A student enrolls in this status if Contemporary Christian there is any interruption in his/her spirituality is an emerging area academic work; an interruption of academic study characterized requiring postponement of a by an interdisciplinary approach. student’s registration for a period Building on the Pro-Seminar in the of one semester or more. A student first year, the Foundations course must notify the DMin Program will help students understand those Director in writing for this status, significant fields of research that with sufficient detail, at least one influence and ground the study of month before the student’s next spirituality and spiritual writing scheduled course and/or registration. in the academy. The Foundations
88 course will explore the some DSC 7303 Contemporary of the “classics” of western Spirituality philosophical tradition, Catholic An overview of the field of theological method and content, Christian spirituality today. twentieth century anthropological, A survey look at the various sociological, cultural studies and schools and movements that gender studies and educational make up the complex whole of theory. The goal of this course is to contemporary Christian spirituality offer some principles and classical and an in depth look at several distinctions drawn from philosophy, of these schools and movements: anthropology, sociology, educational Creation-centered spiritualities, theory, and revelation that can help Feminist spiritualities, Masculine serve as a foundation within which spiritualities, Social Justice and to ground Christian spirituality. Liberation spiritualities, Charismatic DSC 7301 History of Christian spiritualities, Traditional Roman Spirituality Catholic devotions as spirituality, A history of Christian spirituality the impact of Eastern Religions from the early apostolic period on Christian spirituality, Native through the patristic, medieval, American spiritualities, Afro- modern and contemporary eras, by American spiritualities, Centering way of an in-depth examination of prayer as a spirituality, Typologies various individuals, movements, and and the Enneagram as spiritualities, themes; also, select reading from 12-Step programs as a spirituality, among their writing contributions recovery of the soul and the to the Christian spirituality language of the soul as a spirituality, tradition. Part of the course will secular spiritualities. also address the process and skills DSC 7304 Spirituality of the Trinity required for writing academic- DSC 7305 Seminar and Practicum quality journal articles and other in Teaching Spirituality works. Analysis and application of DSC 7302 Hermeneutics of concepts inherent to teaching course Religious Experience material in higher education and to Psychological and philosophical offering one’s students guidance principles to help differentiate in research and writing related to authentic religious experience from such material. Emphasis on the human pathology. Psychological and engagement of students through philosophical background drawn oral communication, creative from major thinkers and the DSM- expression, and communications IV classification system as an aid media appropriate to the area of to read religious experience more spirituality. Attention to the effective astutely. formulation and use of lectures, discussions, presentations, group work, projects, and assessment
89 to facilitate student learning in accord with varying learning styles. Electives Individual supervision and peer DSE 8301 The Desert Tradition review of seminar participants’ The Christian desert tradition instructional activities in ongoing emerged in Egypt in the 3rd placements and in anticipated century C.E. and quickly spread instructional activity. to the deserts of Syria, Palestine, DSC 7306 Integrating Seminar and beyond. This course offers an Integration can be described as overview of the major figures in this the process of bringing together movement – the desert fathers and or combining parts into a mothers – as well as the primary unified, harmonious whole. This themes that emerge from their seminar provides a framework writings. Particular attention will be for integrating learning about given to the theological and spiritual spirituality, through an actual significance of the desert tradition experience or spiritual practice. for contemporary spirituality. Students will be introduced to the DSE 8302 Franciscan Spirituality concept of research and writing as a spiritual practice that can shape DSE 8303 Dominican Spirituality them intellectually and spiritually. Thomas Aquinas describes Christian They will be asked to relate readings spirituality as a school in the about the spiritual discipline of perfection and elevation of human writing, to their own process. More nature through its cooperation concretely, students will have the with grace. Dominican spirituality opportunity to integrate the content connotes a very complex historical and skills acquired through courses reality of men and women, ordained in the PhD. in Spirituality program and lay, celibate and married, through self-examination. They trying to work together to preach will then formulate a preliminary the good news of Jesus Christ and research proposal and use this to to authenticate that proclamation design possible questions for their through the witness of their own comprehensive exams. growth in personal in communal conversion. This course will DSC 9000 Comprehensive explore some of the major historical Examination figures and movements within the DSC 9001 Dissertation Proposal wider ecclesial movement known Writing popularly known as the Dominicans. DSC 9003 PhD Dissertation: Students will investigate various Research modes in which the Order of Preachers emerges during the last DSC 9005 PhD Dissertation: eight hundred years in the Western Writing Christian Tradition. DSE 8304 The Spiritual Vision of
90 John of the Cross DSE 8308 Contemporary African The spirituality of the Spanish American Spiritualties mystic, John of the Cross. The DSE 8309 Mysticism seminar will consist in a textual This course is designed to examine reading of three of his major works: the claims of the mystics to the The Ascent to Mount Carmel, possibility of experiencing spiritual The Dark Night of the Soul, union with ultimate reality. The and The Living Flame of Love, focal point is Christian mysticism. highlighting and explicating his In addition to analyzing spiritual key ideas vis-à-vis the concepts of experiences within the general religious experience, grace, prayer, understanding of human cognition, discernment of spirits, spiritual the course will emphasize the direction, healing, and paschal areas of historical/chronological transformation. development, key Christian DSE 8305 Ignatian Spirituality mystics and their legacy of insights DSE 8306 Thomas Merton: and wisdom. Monasticism as Recovery, Renewal, DSE 8310 Spirituality of Kenosis and Rebellion This course is designed to cover Continuation Status the many components of Thomas PhD students must register each Merton’s religious vocation, semester for a particular course, or a spirituality and extensive core section of the Doctoral Dissertation of writings as they pertain to his to maintain current status in the PhD understanding of monasticism. program. If a student is ineligible To that end, it will examine his or unable to register for a particular signal accomplishments in the area course in a given semester, the of monastic ressourcement and student will register for one of the aggiornamento, his translations of continuance classifications. The PhD and commentaries on the influential Administration will advise the student monastics, and the evolution of his about the applicable continuance contemplative thought with its broad status. interfaith insights and initiatives. As a consequence of his rich and DSC 9002 Dissertation Proposal diverse literary and intellectual Writing (Continuation Status) talents, we will study representative DSC 9004 PhD Dissertation: examples of his work drawing on Research (Continuation Status) standard prose works, poetry, diary DSC 9006 PhD Dissertation: entries, and autobiography. Writing (Continuation Status) DSE 8307 Contemporary Hispanic/ DSC 9007 Extended Status Latino Spiritualities A student enrolls in this status if See description under DMin there is any interruption in his/her Spirituality and Ministry. academic work; an interruption
91 requiring postponement of a student’s registration for a period of one semester or more. A student must notify the Program Director in writing for this status, with sufficient detail, at least one month before the student’s next scheduled course and/or registration. Since registration in this status indicates an interruption in the student’s work, OST faculty will generally not work with a student during this period.
92 FACULTY BOARD, ADMINISTRATORS, ADMINISTRATORS, BOARD,
93 BOARD, ADMINISTRATORS, FACULTY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Very Rev. William Antone, OMI (Chair) Dr. Lorraine Barnes Mrs. Gayle Marie Benson, HOMI Rev. Warren Brown, OMI Dr. Dianna Burns Dr. Arturo Chávez, PhD Bro. Richard Daly, CSC Mrs. Lori Dawson Mr. James R. Eller Rev. Séamus P. Finn, OMI Rev. Art Flores, OMI Mr. Robert Heard Mr. Richard Kardys, HOMI Mr. Patrick J. Kennedy, Jr. Dr. Peter V. Kuhl Deacon Robert Kusenberger, HOMI Mr. Robert McAdams, CPA Mr. Jordan McMorrough Very Rev. Jeff Pehl Rev. Ray John Marek, OMI Most Rev. Gustavo García-Siller, MSpS Sr. Jane Ann Slater, CDP, PhD Mr. Paul Vance Most Rev. Kevin W. Vann, JCD, DD Mr. Loyd Whitley, HOMI Mr. Mark Wittig Most Rev. Thomas J. Flanagan, DD (Emeritus) Rev. Ronald Rolheiser, OMI, President
94 ADMINISTRATORS
ADMINISTRATION President Rev. Ronald Rolheiser, OMI Vice President for Administrative Affairs Rev. David Kalert, OMI Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean Dr. Scott Woodward Vice President for Finance Mr. René Espinosa Vice President for Institutional Advancement Mrs. Lea Kochanek Associate Academic Dean Sr. Linda Gibler, OP Associate Dean for Continuing Education Mrs. Rose Marden Director of Admissions /Registrar Mr. Mario Porter Associate Director of Admissions /Registrar Mrs. Brenda Reyna Director of Institutional Effectiveness Rev. David Kalert, OMI Director of Offerings Dr. Ronald Quillo Director of Information Technology Sr. Susan Pontz, SSCM Facilities Coordinator Mr. Brian Wallace
PROGRAM DIRECTORS Doctor of Philosophy (Spirituality) Rev. John Markey, OP Doctor of Ministry Rev. Wayne A. Cavalier, OP Master of Divinity Rev. Robert Wright, OMI Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry Dr. Scott Woodward Master of Arts (Theology) Dr. Gregory J. Zuschlag Master of Arts (Spirituality) Mr. Cliff Knighten Pre-Theology Studies Sr. Linda Gibler, OP Theological Field Education Mrs. Sally T. Gómez-Jung Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology (STB) Rev. Dale Schlitt, OMI Internship Program Rev. Bryan Silva, OMI Oblate Renewal Center Mr. Brian Wallace Director of International Priest Internship Rev. Vincent Louwagie, OMI
CERTIFICATE PROGRAM DIRECTORS Director of Lay Ministry Institute Mrs. Bonnie LeMelle Abadie Associate Director of Lay Ministry Mrs. Rita S. Velasquez Director of Ministry to Ministers Program Rev. Vincente Louwagie, OMI Associate Director of Ministry to Ministers Sr. Laura Gonzalez, SSCJ
95 FACULTY Mrs. Bonnie LeMelle Abadie Director of Lay Ministry BA Our Lady of the Lake University MTS Oblate School of Theology Mr. Victor Carmona Instructor of Moral Theology BSFS School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University MTS University of Notre Dame PhD (Cand.) University of Notre Dame Rev. Wayne A. Cavalier, OP Assistant Professor of Theology, Director of DMin Program BA Nicholls State University MRE Catholic University of America MA/MDiv Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology PhD Boston College Dr. Renata Furst Assistant Professor of Sacred Scripture BA Queen’s University MA Queen’s Univesity MA Business Administration, International Finance, McGill University PhD Biblical Studies (ABD), Old Testament-Prophecy, Université de Montréal Sr. Linda Gibler, OP Assistant Professor of Science and Religion, Associate Academic Dean BA The William Paterson State College of New Jersey MAPS Aquinas Institute of Theology MA California Institute of Integral Studies PhD California Institute of Integral Studies Mrs. Sally T. Gómez-Jung Director of Theological Field Education, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Studies BA University of Puerto Rico MTS Oblate School of Theology MA University of the Incarnate Word Rev. Patrick Guidon, OMI President Emeritus, Oblate School of Theology BA Dublin University STL Gregorian University MEd Our Lady of the Lake University Rev. Kenneth Hannon, OMI Professor of Pastoral and Liturgical Theology PhB Pontifical Gregorian University 96 MDiv Oblate College of the Southwest MA PhD University of Notre Dame Rev. Roger Keeler BA University of Alberta MTh Newman Theological College JCD/PhD Saint Paul University/University of Ottawa Mr. Cliff Knighten Director of MA (Spirituality), Instructor in Spirituality BA Michigan State University MDiv Denver Seminary MA (Spirituality) Oblate School of Theology Rev. Joseph T. LaBelle, OMI Assistant Professor of Spiritual Theology BS Texas A&M University MA Oblate College STL, STD Pontifical Institute of Spirituality Rev. John M. Makothakat Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology PhL, STL Pontifical Urban University JCL Pontifical Gregorian University MA, PhD University of Ottawa JCD Saint Paul University STD Catholic University of America Mrs. Rose Marden Associate Dean for Continuing Education and Lecturer in Pastoral Studies BS University of Maine at Orono, ME MTS Oblate School of Theology MDiv Oblate School of Theology DMin (cand.) Catholic University of America Rev. John Markey, OP Assistant Professor of Theology, Director of Doctor of Philosophy BA, MA University of Notre Dame MDiv Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology PhD Graduate Theological Union Rev. Leopoldo Pérez, OMI Assistant Professor in Moral Theology BA Saint Edward’s University MDiv Oblate School of Theology STL, STD Pontifical Gregorian University
97 Sr. Susan Pontz, SSCM Director of Informational Technology, Assistant Professor of Informational Technology BS Shippensburg, University of Pennsylvania MS Bloomsburg, University of Pennsylvania MA Oblate School of Theology EdD Wayne State University Dr. Ronald Quillo Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology and Spirituality, Editor, Offerings. BA Cardinal Glennon College STL Institute Catholique de Paris MA (Philosophy) De Paul University ThD Universitaet Muenster Rev. Ronald Rolheiser, OMI President BA University of Ottawa BTh Newman Theological College MA University of San Francisco MRSc. University of Louvain PhD/STD University of Louvain Rev. Frank Santucci, OMI Assistant Professor of Oblate Studies BA University of South Africa, English Literature STL Lateran University (Claretianum Institute for Theology of Consecrated Life) STD Lateran University (Claretianum Institute for Theology of Consecrated Life) Rev. Dale Schlitt, OMI Professor of Philosophy, Theology, and Spirituality BA Oblate Seminary MA Oblate Seminary STB Gregorian University STL Gregorian University MA Claremont Graduate School PhD Claremont Graduate School Sr. Sarah Ann Sharkey, OP Professor of Sacred Scripture and The Frank L. Montalbano Chair of Scripture BA Barry University MA Union Theological Seminary/Columbia University PhD Catholic University of America Dr. Phillip Sheldrake Phil B Heythrop College Pontifical Athenaeum BA Hon University of Oxford MA University of Oxford
98 Postgraduate Diploma in Pastoral Theology, Heythrop College, University of London MTh Heythrop College/King’s College University of London BD University of Oxford Rev. Stephen K. Sherwood, CMF Professor of Sacred Scripture BA Loyola University (California) MA Catholic University of America SSL Pontifical Biblical Institute (Rome) STD Pontifical Gregorian University (Rome) Rev. Bryan Silva, OMI BA St. Mary’s College MDiv Franciscan School of Theology MS Mount St. Mary’s College Clinical License, Marriage, Family and Child Therapist (M.F.T.), State of California, License # 33922 PsyD Pepperdine University, Graduate School of Education and Psychology Mrs. Rita S. Velasquez Associate Director of Lay Ministry BA St. Edward’s University MA Boston College Sr. Addie Lorraine Walker, SSND BS, Chemistry, Southwest Texas State University MTh Black Catholic Studies, Xavier University of Louisiana PhD Religion and Education, Boston College Dr. R. Scott Woodward Assistant Professor in Pastoral Theology, Director of Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean BA, MRE Seattle University MA St. Mary’s University DMin Oblate School of Theology Rev. Robert Wright, OMI Professor of Systematic Theology PhL University of St. Thomas (Rome) STB University of St. Thomas (Rome) STL Jesuit School of Theology PhD Graduate Theological Union Dr. Gregory J. Zuschlag Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology BA University of Texas-Austin MDiv University of Notre Dame PhD Graduate Theological Union
99 ADJUNCT FACULTY Rev. Lawrence J. Christian Dr. Deborah Smith Douglas Dr. Michael W. Higgins Rev. Jan P. Klak Mr. Howard B. Kravitz Rev. Hy Nguyen, SS Dr. Oswald John Nira Rev. Jack Clark Robinson, OFM Rev. James E. Schellenberg Dr. Peter Tyler Rev. Paul Waldie, OMI Dr. Wendy M. Wright
AFFILIATED DOCTORAL FACULTY Dr. Michael W. Higgins Rev. Bernard Lee, SM
SANKOFA INSTITUTE AFFILIATED FACULTY Rev. Dr. Michael Battle Dr. Shawnee Marie Daniels-Sykes, SSND Dr. Sharon Grant, PhD Dr. Diana Hayes, PhD Rev. Dr. Dwight Hopkins, PhD Rev. Dr. Cheryl Kirk-Duggan, PhD Dr. Stephen Reid, PhD Rev. Dr. J. Alfred Smith Rev. Dr. Dwight Webster
100 SANKOFA INSTITUTE ADVISORY COMMITTEE (COUNCIL OF ELDERS) Dr. Diana Hayes, PhD Rev. Dr. Dwight Hopkins, PhD Rev. Dr. Cheryl Kirk-Duggan, PhD Rev. Dr. James Noel Rev. Joni Russ Rev. Dr. J. Alfred Smith
101