clf a series of specially designed courses for Christian growth and exploration

Fall 2013

CHRISTIAN LIFE FORMATION

The CHRISTIAN LIFE FORMATION program is a series of specially crafted courses designed to help students learn and grow in a whole-life frame of reference to become what God created them to be. They are designed to introduce students to learning resources that can be useful beyond their college years, to engage students in new forms of study and reflection, to assist them in building their capacity to learn from the people around them, and to point to the fact that all experiences under God, from the mundane to the transcendent, are opportunities to learn and grow.

CT 201 Spiritual Disciplines11:00-11:50am, TuesdaysProfessor: Jonathan Doran

What do prayer, study, fasting, solitude, worship, mediation, and other disciplines have to do with the Christian faith? This course will give practical instruction and application of the spiritual disciplines as a mark and tool of spiritual growth. Emphasis will be given to the role of the Holy Spirit in discipleship and God’s gift of spiritual practices as means of grace for the Church.

CT 101 Foundations of the Christian Life6:30-8:30pm meeting off-campus various days of the weekProfessor: Mr. Jonathan DoranCourse fee: $75 (designed for incoming students)

A fundamental study of Christianity within a small group experience led by upperclassmen and faculty/staff for new students. These conversation groups will consider subjects like God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, prayer, the church and fellowship. Groups will use Francis Chan’s BASIC video series.

CLF

CT 203 and CT 307(Advanced) Applied Christian LeadershipDates: October 2-4, off-campusProfessors: Tim Shetter and Scott JonesCourse Fee: $195 (by application only)Conference: catalystconference.com/atlanta

Designed for students in active leadership to explore the idea and implications of Christian leadership from a biblical and experiential perspective. Attention will be given to nurturing leadership that seeks kingdom flourishing. This course includes a national conference.

CT 291 ST: Narrative Arts and the Story of GodDates: September 18-21, off campusProfessor: Jeff EenigenburgCourse Fee: $195 (instructor approval required)Conference: storychicago.com

How has story played a part in maintaining identity in the body of Christ?  What potential does a robust storytelling tradition hold for the missional efforts of the church?  This highly experiential course deepen capacities for weaving narrative into work and life.  

CT 205 The Gospel in Cultural Life (In connection with Italy Abroad)This class is only offered in San Lorenzo, ItalyProfessor: Samuel SpatolaCourse video: youtu.be/m97Bbvw___g

An exploration of the relevance of the Gospel to culture  through a consideration of cultural realities in Italy. Students will investigate the spiritual, cultural and social opportunities/challenges present in modern Italy. They will reflect on the dual nature of Italy arising from the tension between what is called “the dark heart of Italy” as well as “la dolce vita” (the sweet life).

CT 204 Spirituality in Film6:00-9:00pmThursdays, off-campusProfessor: Jason Glen

What are the films that speak most clearly about the human condition? Does the medium of film have the capacity to give glimpses of what is good, true and beautiful? This CLF will enter the world of film in search of God, reality, and redemption, and will do so through film screenings and discussions. This class will consist of snacks, comedies, dramas, and discussions.

Questions can be directed to the professors for each course. Register through your academic advisor or as usual through the

normal online registration process.

Please note that some CLF courses are closed or by-invitation only.

The CLF series is a program of the Department of Faith and Mission. Relevant questions can be directed to Ben Norquist,

Director of Faith and Mission and instructor in Christian Studies, ben.norquist@bryan.edu, (423) 309-1257

CT 292 ST: Why Jesus? Questions and ConcernsDates: October 4-6, off-campusProfessor: Dr. Ken TurnerCourse fee: $135

Is there just one true religion? How could a good God allow suffering? Why do Christians seem so narrow-minded? This course is designed for students who are less familiar with or who struggle with the claims of Christianity or who are seeking how to converse about and defend these claims with skeptics.

CT 401 Contemporary Issues11:00-11:50am, ThursdaysProfessor: Ben Norquist (designed for upperclassmen)

An exploration of contemporary socio-cultural issues in which there exists a divergence in the Christian community. Students in this course will consider robust approaches to Christian involvement in public life in various modes including as critics, consumers, creatives, and cultivators. Special emphasis will be given to analyzing differing theological approaches to contemporary issues as an introduction to hermeneutical communities.

CT 301 Readings in Classic Christian Spirituality11:00-11:50amTuesdays and Thursdays until fall breakProfessor: Matt Benson

An examination of various authors and literary works that have proven historically significant in shaping the spiritual theology and practice of the church and the Christian. The format for this course will be small group reading circles.