Seminary Lite invites laity to deeper study
Four upcoming courses of Seminary Lite will help laity go deeper in faith and service as disciples.
Seminary Lite is offered by Saint Paul School of Theology in collaboration with Oklahoma City University and St. Luke’s UMC.
Those who complete three courses earn the Certified Lay Servant certificate.
All classes are 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at OKC-St. Luke’s.
Contact Rachel McClain, 405-208-5757, OCUevent@spst.edu.
And find registration info online at www.spst.edu/laity (Scroll to "Seminary Lite in Oklahoma").
Description: This course provides an introduction to the theology and practice of worship, from what it is to why we do what we do. It will look at traditional and alternative patterns of public worship, special services throughout the Christian year, and creative ways to engage people across age groups. Suggested reading: "Worship for the Whole People of God: Vital Worship for the 21st Century," by Ruth Duck.
• Feb. 17 and 24, "Intro to Christian Theology," with John Starkey.
Description: Theology is "talking about God" or the study of the teachings of the Christian faith, asking such questions as: What is faith? Who is Jesus Christ? In our time together, we will discuss some of the basics of Christian theology and how we are able to know about and understand God. Suggested reading: "Theology: The Basics," by Alister E. McGrath (any edition).
• March 2 and 9, "Introduction to Church History," by Rev. Newman.
Description: This course will explore the key questions and concerns of the larger periods of church history — the Early Church, the Medieval Church, the Church of the Reformations, and Modern Church. Participants will connect their own experiences to the larger church’s story. Suggested reading: "Church History: An Essential Guide," by Justo Gonzalez.
• March 23 and 30, "Introduction to New Testament," taught by Sharon Betsworth.
Description: This seminar will explore the historical literary contexts of the New Testament, the Gospels, Paul, and the Book of Revelation. Bring a Bible to class! Suggested reading: "Reading the Bible Again for the First Time: Taking the Bible Seriously but not Literally," by Marcus Borg.