top of page

ONLINE COURSES

School

Boston College School of Theology & Ministry

TMPS7314

Podcasts: A New Medium for Ministry

BTI Category

Semester

Leadership Formation & Ministry Skills

FA24

There are over 5 million podcasts in the world and “Religion & Spirituality” podcasts consistently top the charts. People are hungry for a nourishing word, a refreshing perspective, and authentic companionship. Do you know where to find good podcasts? Would you like to explore podcasting as a creative extension of your ministry? Or empower those you serve to find their own voice behind the mic? This course will explore consuming and creating podcasts for ministry. We’ll look at best practices for sourcing quality podcasts to inform and inspire your ministry along with the basics for how to launch a podcast.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Maggi Van Dorn

F (Aug 30; Sept 6, 13, 20, 27, Oct 4)

3:00-5:00

Grading Option

P/F

Credits

1

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Boston College School of Theology & Ministry

TMST702002

The Church

BTI Category

Semester

Systematic Theology & Philosophy (Western)

FA24

The ecclesial dimension of Christian faith is the focal point of this course. The course will locate the church within both a Trinitarian theology and a theological anthropology. Specific topics for exploration include the place of the church in the Creed, the sacramentality of the church, a theology of mission, and of structure and authority. The course will also explore current issues shaping the church's life and its place in the wider culture.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Rafael Luciani

ASYNC

ASYNC

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

ASYNC

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

DOGM 5002 Z2

Dogmatics I

BTI Category

Semester

Church Polity/Canon Law

FA24

The Orthodox doctrine of the knowledge of God and of the doctrines of the Trinity, cosmology, and anthropology. Emphasis will be placed on the ancient Fathers and on contempotary Orthodox dogmaticians

Professor

Class Day & Time

TO BE ANNOUNCED

TBA

TBA

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

ETHC 5001

Orthodox Christian Ethics

BTI Category

Semester

Ethics (all traditions)

FA24

Christian moral theology is concerned with virtue not as an end in itself, but as an indispensable, challenging, and rewarding dimension of the Good Life, the Life in Christ. As such, a proper aim of Christian ethics is happiness, or rather blessedness; thus, St. Seraphim of Sarov's famous dictum: The goal of the Christian life is the acquisition of the Holy Spirit. Taking our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the Panaghia as our primary ethical models, the class considers the meaning and shape of 'right action' within the matrix of Uncreated Grace.

Professor

Class Day & Time

TO BE ANNOUNCED

R

2:40-5 PM

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

LITG 7521 Z1

Sacrament of Marriage

BTI Category

Semester

Church Polity/Canon Law

FA24

This course is a theological, historical, and liturgical examination of selected texts on the holy sacrament of marriage.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Rev. Dr. Philip Zymaris

ASYNC

ASYNC

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

MUSB 6831 Z1

Byzantine Music IX

BTI Category

Semester

Preaching, Liturgy, & Ritual

FA24

The material taught in this course is equivalent to the material taught in the 4th year of Gteek conservatories and provides comprehensive preparation for the final examination required for a Holy Cross Certificate in Byzantine Music. Students are expected to become competent in performing more technically demanding repettoire, including Gregoty Ptotopsaltis' chetubic hymns, Pettos the Peloponnesian's communion hymns, Pettos the Peloponnesian's Kytie i en pollais amattiais, Ioannis Koukouzelis' Anothen oiprofitai, the ancient hymn Ton despotin kai archierea, and the anaphota hymns for the Divine Litutgy of St. Basil. Prerequisites: Byzantine Music I-V.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Mr. Georgios Theodoridis

F

3-5 PM

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

1.5

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

NEWT 6045 Z1

Philanthropic Ministry In The New Test & Patristric Texts

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

The focus of this course is on some of the classical biblical texts and their interpreters that urge us to serve and to keep the Lord's commandments. In particular, serving the poor and the loving neighbor will be studied through biblical readings and classic Patristic homilies and Lives of Saints (including more recent ones) who have embodied the spirit of philanthropy and outreach to their communities.

The course will be available for MTS online students (asynchronous) and for traditional/on-campus and remote students in a hybrid classroom.

Prerequisites: None

Professor

Class Day & Time

Dr. Bruce Beck

ASYNC

ASYNC

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

OLDT 5001 Z1

Introduction to the Old Testament

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

The Introduction to the study of the Old Testament is not, and cannot be, a substitute of the Old Testament, but rather a preparatory step, a reading guide, and a candid invitation to reading the Old Testament. The course is divided into two parts. The General Introduction deals with the Old Testament as history, literature, and part of the living tradition. The following topics are discussed in detail: unity in diversity of the Christian Bible, biblical text, biblical canon, and relationship between Scripture and Tradition. The Special Introduction survey the books of the Old Testament (including the anaginoskomena) and focuses on some theological themes rooted in the Pentateuch and running throughout the Old and New Testaments along with their interpretations within various hermeneutical contexts (Jewish, Christian, modern scholarship). The two themes discussed here are God and humanity.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Rev. Dr. Eugen J. Pentiuc

ASYNC

ASYNC

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Saint John's Seminary

THPT500

New Evangelization/Pastoral Theology

BTI Category

Semester

Practical/Pastoral Theology

FA24

Holiness is oriented to meeting the needs of the contemporary world, which requires a sophisticated
understanding of the mission field. This course will examine the mission field in detail, while directing
attention to the true nature of Christian mission: finding our identity within the universal mission of the
Incarnate Son. The second half of this course looks at the theological underpinning to pastoral ministry:
the theology of a parish, roles of the ordained and lay, mission effectiveness and best practices in pastoral
settings. This course will follow a hybrid model of both in-person and online meetings using the Canvas
learning platform. In-person classes will be held at Our Lady Help of Christians Parish Center in Newton, MA.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Dr. A. Lingertat

T

7:15-9:15pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Hybrid

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

This course will follow a hybrid model of both in-person and online meetings using the Canvas learning platform. In-person classes will be held at Our Lady Help of Christians Parish Center in Newton, MA.

School

Hartford International

AM-550

Quran Recitation/Tajweed

BTI Category

Semester

Islamic Studies

Fall 2024

This course is designed for Muslim leaders and chaplains and anyone who is interested in learning and improving their Quranic recitation. Students will gain important knowledge on recitation of the Quran. In this course, the instructor will focus on correct pronunciation of Arabic letters and words with consistent application of tajweed rules.Class time will be divided between teaching a tajweed lesson and group Tilawah, an exercise during which the teacher reads aloud and the students repeat after the teacher. There will be time for listening to the students’ recitations, as well. Once each student understands and is comfortable with the application of the tajweed rules, s/he can complete recitation of the entire mushaf at a better and faster pace and more independently, in sha Allah.This course may be accompanied by the spring semester course AM-551: Quran Recitation/Tajweed II.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Dogan

M

7-9pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

CH-524

University Chaplaincy

BTI Category

Semester

Practical/Pastoral Theology

Fall 2024

This course is an introduction to university/higher education chaplaincy as well as an opportunity to deep one’s understanding of the work and the field, with attention to effective methods, best practices, traditions and innovations in higher education chaplaincy. Since the work is organically interfaith in nature, much of the work may be applicable to other chaplaincies as well. The outcome of this course will be to equip students with the necessary tools to excel when entering into positions of chaplaincy in higher education settings. Students will learn how to understand and navigate university structures and politics, campus and community organizations, student intersectional identity development and working with student organizations, diversity and antiracism work, interfaith relations, basic pastoral counseling, community and personal grief, crisis management, and boundaries and self-care necessary to the work.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Fuller

R

7-9pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

HI-523-2

A Global History of Christianity: Defining Moments and People that Shaped a Faith

BTI Category

Semester

Church History/History of Religions

Fall 2024

This course will explore some of the most significant moments and persons in the history of Christianity. These moments produced shared understandings that have endured for centuries, while others fractured Christianity into divergent and often opposing forms. To investigate both the unity and diversity of Christianity, we will examine the diverse cultural settings where Christians planted themselves, and how Christians interacted with other religious traditions. We will also pay particular attention to the forms of Christianity that have been used to legitimate dominance and oppression, even as other forms have been used to resist and thrive under oppression. 

Professor

Class Day & Time

Grafton

R

5-7pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

HI-539-2

Interrogating Abraham: Examining Intersections between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

BTI Category

Semester

Interreligious Learning

Fall 2024

Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have often been called the Abrahamic Religions, as they all claim the Patriarch Abraham‎. To what extent do these three faiths identify with him, define him, and share him? This course will use an interdisciplinary approach to problematize the Abrahamic identities of early Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities, their views of the Patriarch, and how such identities have guided and affected past and contemporary inter-communal relations. Attention will be given to how sacred scripture, contemporary literature and film shapes and provide meaning for relations today.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Grafton

T

5-7pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

LG-561-2

Intro to New Test. Greek Pt I

BTI Category

Semester

Languages

Fall 2024

The focus of this introductory course, which assumes no prior knowledge of the Greek language, is on the basic grammar and vocabulary of New Testament Greek. Students will begin reading selected passages of the New Testament. This course will include a separate tutorial section.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Duffy

M/W

5-7pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

SC-531-2

New Testament Survey

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

Fall 2024

This course invites students to intimately engage the text of the New Testament, while becoming familiar with critical issues surrounding its composition, authorship, and reception. Students will be expected to demonstrate the following: acute engagement with the New Testament as both an ancient text and a contemporary religious text; familiarity and facility with appropriate secondary literature; ability to articulate various viewpoints other than one’s own. Issues that will be covered in this course include the study of the historical Jesus, the canonicity of the New Testament, past and present interpretive strategies, and various issues involving the New Testament and race, sexuality, slavery, and gender.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Robertson

T

7-9pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

WS-600-2

Eco-Spirituality

BTI Category

Semester

Ethics (all traditions)

Fall 2024

Eco-Spirituality: This course invites students into experiential immersion in the sacred wild as a central dimension of human spiritual and/or religious life. Focusing on themes of beauty, biophilia (and biophobia), and love, the course encompasses eco-philosophy, science, and a range of religious and non-religious spiritual voices relating to love of Earth and one’s local place, along with weekly outdoor practices inviting students into practices of encounter and deepening relationship with creatures, places, and the divine. At the heart of this course is the relation between human environmental- and generational-justice questions and the destruction of beauty in late capitalism – along with examples and resources for sustaining hope, action, and the renewal of the beauty that sustains all that is.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Dahill

W

5-7pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Boston

MC/PC608

Pastoral Care in the Urban Church

BTI Category

Semester

Leadership Formation & Ministry Skills

FA24

This seminar will seek to help the urban pastor to discern some of the chronic problems and conflicts confronted by youth, adults, and senior citizens as they struggle for survival amid tension, frustration, and change in the daily, inner-city experience of living and how to deal creatively and constructively with such problems.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Celestin, Carlot

TBD

TBD

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Boston

NT501

Exploring the New Testament

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

Introduction to the field of New Testament studies, highlighting central New Testament themes, issues, events, and persons.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Arnold, Mark

TBD

TBD

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Boston

OT511

Interpreting the Old Testament

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

The primary objective of this course is to introduce students to the methods and principles of interpreting the Old Testament, so that they might become effective preachers and teachers of God’s word. Must complete OT500, NT501, and OL502 before this course.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Day, Quonekuia

TBD

TBD

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

OL502, OT500

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

CH/SF/TH619

Reformation Era Spirituality

BTI Category

Semester

Church History/History of Religions

FA24

This course will highlight the distinctive contributions of the Reformers over against the background of the dominating medieval spirituality to which it is an answer and the context of ongoing competing spiritualities of the time.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Isaac, Gordon

M

9am-12pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

CH500

Survey of Church History

BTI Category

Semester

Church History/History of Religions

FA24

A general survey of the history of the Christian church from its founding at Pentecost to the present day.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Cuthbert, Christian

TBD

TBD

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

CL/MC634

Conflict Management in Life & Ministry

BTI Category

Semester

Leadership Formation & Ministry Skills

FA24

This course focuses on the dynamics of interpersonal conflict management, with principles broadened to apply to contexts of church, ministry, and other systems.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Horvath, Katherine

M

1:30-4:30pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

ET501

Christian Ethics

BTI Category

Semester

Ethics (all traditions)

FA24

An exploration of how Christians can make and enact good, wise, and faithful ethical choices and develop moral character and community in the midst of a complex world. The course will examine: (1) the foundations of Christian Ethics, especially in Holy Scripture; (2) the contexts of contemporary ethical issues; (3) the methods of moral discernment and decision-making; and (4) the relationship of Christian ethics to that of the surrounding culture and society. Lectures, case studies, and discussion will be employed in an attempt to gain wisdom, understanding, character, and a prophetic voice relative to the moral issues in church and society.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Ridenour, Autumn

M

1:30-4:30pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

GL601

Intermediate Greek

BTI Category

Semester

Languages

FA24

Systematic study of Greek beyond GL 502, combined with close reading and detailed grammatical analysis of several complex passages in the New Testament. Emphasis on grammatical analysis, not full exegesis, of passages.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Keazirian, Ed

W

1:30-4:30pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

GL502

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

MC520

Communication for Ministry and Career

BTI Category

Semester

Leadership Formation & Ministry Skills

FA24

Effective communication in professional and ministry settings—public speaking, seminars, small groups, meetings, blogging, and podcasting. Application of communication theory to praxis.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Arthurs, Jeff

See notes

Fri 6:30-9:30pm; Sat 8:30am-4:30pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

Sept. 27-28, Oct 25-26, Nov. 22-23

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

NT/OT517

Interpreting the Bible

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

An introduction to essential bibliographical tools necessary for Bible study and an orientation to the key issues in the field of hermeneutics.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Day, Quonekuia

TBD

TBD

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

OT500, NT501

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

NT502

Interpreting the New Testament

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

Attention given to a variety of methods of interpretation (textual, lexical, grammatical, historical, literary) and bibliographic tools. Students prepare exegesis papers on the basis of the Greek text. Must complete OT500, NT501, and GL502 before this course.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Ciampa, Roy

R

1:30-4:30pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

GL502, NT501

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

NT615

Exegesis of Luke

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

An exegesis of the Greek text in light of the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish world with attention to the exegesis of narrative, historical accuracy and context, theological themes, structure, and application.

Professor

Class Day & Time

McDonough, Sean

TBD

TBD

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

NT502

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

OL501

Hebrew I

BTI Category

Semester

Languages

FA24

Introduces basic grammar and vocabulary of biblical Hebrew, emphasizing the importance of Hebrew language for understanding the Old Testament.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Petter, Donna

TR

9:35-11am

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

OT500

Exploring the Old Testament

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

Introduces history, literature and thought of Old Testament as reflected in its major divisions and individual books. Designed and recommended for those who have not had a systematic survey of the Old Testament, enabling them to proceed with seminary-level studies.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Nation, Trey

R

1:30-4:30pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

OT627

Exegesis in Exodus

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

Students will be introduced to the objectives, methods and tools of Hebrew exegesis and principles of hermeneutics. Emphasis upon the Plague Narratives, Passover, Covenant, Decalogue, Tabernacle and the great moment of redemption in the Old Testament.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Petter, Donna

TBD

TBD

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

OT511

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

PR601

Preaching: Principles & Practices

BTI Category

Semester

Preaching, Liturgy, & Ritual

FA24

An introduction to the principles of preparing relevant biblical sermons. Lectures and exercises cover a stage-by-stage explanation of how preachers think as they prepare to preach. Recitation sessions provide opportunity for students to preach with critique by the professor.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Arthurs, Jeff

M

9am-12pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

NT502 or OT511

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

TH501

Theology Survey I

BTI Category

Semester

Systematic Theology & Philosophy (Western)

FA24

A study of theological method, revelation, inspiration, and canon of scripture; existence and attributes of God; Trinity; creation and providence; human nature; original and actual sin.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Vidu, Adonis

F

9am-12pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary-Hamilton

THXXX

Sin and Evil

BTI Category

Semester

Systematic Theology & Philosophy (Western)

FA24

TBD

Professor

Class Day & Time

Butner, Glenn

T

9am-12pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Synchronous

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Boston College School of Theology & Ministry

TMPS7182

Pastoral Care in/with Communities of Faith: Creating Networks of Care

BTI Category

Semester

Practical/Pastoral Theology

FA24

Life is in inherently relational, multidimensional, interconnected, and located within larger systems and structures – i.e. communities. Thus, our practices of pastoral care and counseling must likewise attend to the multidimensional and systemic nature of relationality. This course uses an interdisciplinary approach to explore personal, pastoral, and communal processes of creating networks of care in communities of faith and para-church organizations. Both pastoral and lay leaders will learn how to engage and utilize systems theory, conflict theory, therapeutic skills and processes, and theological and spiritual resources to navigate conflict, foster dialogue, and build constructive solutions and possibilities in community as part of an overarching practice of pastoral care. Particular attention will be given to one’s self-in-relationship and the capacity to remain a non-anxious, non-reactive constructive presence.

Professor

Class Day & Time

William Roozeboom

ASYNC

ASYN

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

ASYNC

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Boston College School of Theology & Ministry

TMPS8147

Preaching in Action

BTI Category

Semester

Leadership Formation & Ministry Skills

FA24

This course prepares students to develop and implement a preaching activity. It also explores effective preaching and communication in digital spaces.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Jaime L. Waters

ASYNC

ASYN

Grading Option

P/F

Credits

2 (0/2)

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

TMOT7305: Scripture, Preaching and Public Speaking or
TMPS7306: Preaching to Diverse Communities

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

DOGM 5002 Z1

Dogmatics I

BTI Category

Semester

Church Polity/Canon Law

FA24

The Orthodox doctrine of the knowledge of God and of the doctrines of the Trinity, cosmology, and anthropology. Emphasis will be placed on the ancient Fathers and on contempotary Orthodox dogmaticians

Professor

Class Day & Time

TO BE ANNOUNCED

ASYNC

ASYNC

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

ECGK 5301

Liturgical Greek

BTI Category

Semester

Languages

FA24

A study in the Septuagint translation of the Old Testament with concentration on the Psalms. This course also includes an introduction to the language of the Greek Fathers for the study of the Patristic Prayers used in the Orthodox Services. The texts used include the Orthos and Vesper Services. The aim of the course is to enable the students to understand, follow and use the original Greek of the Orthodox services.
Prerequisites: New Testament Greek 1 and 2. or equivalent

Professor

Class Day & Time

Prof. Stephany Hull

MW

10:40 AM - 12 PM

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

INDS 7110 H1

The Ecumenical Movement: Challenges and Opportunities

BTI Category

Semester

Interreligious Learning

FA24

The Ecumenical Movement that started in the second half of the 19th century does not constitute an ideology but rather reflects the authentic commitment to reconcile divided Christians in the unity of the Church and the reality of communion. Throughout the past century, the quest for Christian unity has assumed many shapes and forms that may be studied through major documents produced along the history of the 20th century and beyond. This course will define the boundaries of Ecumenism and its challenges for contemporary Orthodoxy by looking inward as well as outward as faithful and thoughtful Christians.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Rev. Dr. Philip Joseph Halikias

T

9:40 AM - 12 PM

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

MUSB 5011 Z1

Ecclesiastical Chant II in English

BTI Category

Semester

Preaching, Liturgy, & Ritual

FA24

The sacraments and services found in the Great Euchologion are studied for practical use. Prereq: Byzantine Music I and Ecclesiastical Chant in English.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Mr. Georgios Theodoridis

F

12:20-3:20 PM

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

1.5

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

Y

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

NEWT 5002 Z1

Introduction to the New Testament

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

A required survey of the New Testament books in their historical and religious background with attention to hermeneutics, the patristic exegetical heritage, and modern biblical studies.

Professor

Class Day & Time

TO BE ANNOUNCED

ASYNC

ASYNC

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

NEWT 7025 Z1

The Apostle Paul as Pastor

BTI Category

Semester

Scripture & Biblical Studies

FA24

This exegetically based course will explore Paul's varied pastoral responses to the differing circumstances his communities presented to him. Particular attention will be given to (1) the character and work of Paul as a shaper of communities, and (2) the manner in which Paul relies on, but also transforms, ancient patterns of moral formation and ancient styles of rhetoric.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Rev. Dr. George Lewis Parsenios

ASYNC

ASYNC

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

PATR 5011 Z1

Patrology

BTI Category

Semester

Church History/History of Religions

FA24

This introductory core-course serves as a general introduction to the Fathers and the main periods of Patristic Literature from post-apostolic times to the Council of Nicaea in the fourth century. The course combines an introduction to the central Fathers of this period, with attention not only to the doctrinal issues, but also the literary, historical, and cultural context of this period.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Dr. Tikhon Alexander Pino

ASYNC

ASYNC

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Saint John's Seminary

MM500

Canon Law

BTI Category

Semester

Church Polity/Canon Law

FA24

Canon law is the system of rules that govern Church order and discipline. This course will present an overview of the nature, history, and function of Church law, and will introduce students to the norms of the 1983 Code of Canon Law — primarily Book I (general norms), Book II (The People of God: Christian faithful, Church hierarchy, consecrated life ), Book III (the teaching office), Book IV (sacraments), and Book V (temporal goods). The objective of the course is to introduce basic structures and functions of the Church as addressed by the Code, and to familiarize students with those canonical norms helpful to their effective ministry in the Church. This course will follow a hybrid model of both in-person and online meetings using the Canvas learning platform. In-person classes will be held at Our Lady Help of Christians Parish Center in Newton, MA.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Prof. J. Shanklin

T

5:00-7:00pm

Grading Option

Letter, P/F, Audit

Credits

3

Online?

Hybrid

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

This course will follow a hybrid model of both in-person and online meetings using the Canvas learning platform. In-person classes will be held at Our Lady Help of Christians Parish Center in Newton, MA.

School

Hartford International

AM-667

Faith and Leadership in Times of Crisis

BTI Category

Semester

Interreligious Learning

Fall 2024

The havoc wrought by the global onslaught of the novel coronavirus has been complexified during the ensuing years by domestic mass-casualty incidents (both naturally-occurring and human-orchestrated); by climate trauma; by warfare, asylum-seeking, and immigration; and by fierce attitudinal clashes (often exacerbated by bigotry and blaming) with regard to systemic racism, the nature and content of public education, access to certain medical procedures, and much more. As emergent occasions have melded, one into the next, the need for robust resources and strategies for sensitive leadership, deep understanding, and efficacious interreligious collaboration has become all the more apparent. This course seeks to address that need.Through engagement with case studies, anecdotal accounts, scripture, devotional literature, theological discourse, interreligious scholarship, and lived experience, this course facilitates investigation of the nature of leadership, followership, and entrepreneurship. Working asynchronously yet collegially, students in this course undertake multireligious consideration of questions such as: To what strategic and spiritual resources might we turn in times of great stress. What are we to do when access to those resources is disrupted? How can any of us provide comfort, hope, and cautious wisdom with integrity (and what actions can we take) when anxiety, grief, fear, or divisive forces threaten to overwhelm or isolate? What sorts of collaborative efforts have proven effective?

Professor

Class Day & Time

Mosher

ASYNC

Asynchronous

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

HI-523

A Global History of Christianity: Defining Moments and People that Shaped a Faith

BTI Category

Semester

Church History/History of Religions

Fall 2024

This course will explore some of the most significant moments and persons in the history of Christianity. These moments produced shared understandings that have endured for centuries, while others fractured Christianity into divergent and often opposing forms. To investigate both the unity and diversity of Christianity, we will examine the diverse cultural settings where Christians planted themselves, and how Christians interacted with other religious traditions. We will also pay particular attention to the forms of Christianity that have been used to legitimate dominance and oppression, even as other forms have been used to resist and thrive under oppression. 

Professor

Class Day & Time

Grafton

R

5-7pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

HI-538

Dialogue Among Muslim Schools of Thought: Sunnis, Shias, and Others

BTI Category

Semester

Islamic Studies

Fall 2024

This seminar explores historical formations of religiously-defined identities in the history of Islam. The most commonly known such religiously-defined identities are those of Sunnis and Shias (for the sake of convenience, the word Shia is used consistently throughout this course instead of Shi'i, Shi'ite, Shiite, etc.). Besides Sunni and Shia, many other religiously-defined identity labels have been and continue to be used in the history of Muslim societies. Sufis, for instance, may identify themselves as either Sunni or Shia, even though sometimes they are shunned by both Sunnis and Shias. Tens of different Sufi group affiliations, also known as Sufi Brotherhoods, or tariqas, are known. Still, there have existed many other identity labels that mostly are forgotten, deemed irrelevant or sometimes subsumed other labels: Salafis, Ismailis, Ahmedis, Azalis, Nu'ayris, and Alewis are but few examples of such religiously-defined identities. Covered themes include theology, politics, jurisprudence. Thematic material is presented chronologically, from the 7th century to the present, with examples drawn from the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, Africa, Europe, North America and elsewhere. Historical processes of making, unmaking, and remaking of various forms of “orthodoxy” are linked with the ways in which various religiously-defined identities may come under a unifying rubric.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Kamaly

R

7-9pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

HI-624

Histories of Classical Islam: Peoples, Traditions, Institutions

BTI Category

Semester

Islamic Studies

Fall 2024

This course explores historical formations of major Muslim beliefs, practices, and traditions in the context of socio-political institutions. It engages narratives on the development of Islam which have come forth from various perspectives. Topics range from the emergence of the community of faith around the Prophet to established orders under different polities. Chronologically, this course covers from the 7th to the 17th century CE, from Late Antiquity to the Early Modern Period. Geographically, coverage extends from what is presently called the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) to southern Spain (Al-Andalus), as well as Asia Minor, the Caucasus, Central Asia, India, and the Malay Peninsula.

Professor

Class Day & Time

Kamaly

W

5-7pm

Grading Option

Letter

Credits

3

Online?

Y

Professor Approval Req'd?

N

Prerequisites?

N

Notes

N

School

Hartford International

LG-562-2

Introduction to New Testament Greek II