DURM 8300 The Practice of Urban Ministry
This course will explore a variety of approaches and methodologies to urban ministry. It will explore the relationship of ethics and theology to community building and transformation in the urban context and will discuss a systems approach to address the systemic complexities of cities, particularly as pastoral leaders in the urban context. The course emphasizes practical ministry skills and ministry practices that reflect social, cultural, and historical analysis, as well as biblical theological reflection. Particular attention will be given to the practices of faith-based community development, community organizing, and the development of beloved communities of faith as approaches to the church's role in the spiritual and social transformation of the urban context. The course will also assess how leaders can keep themselves spiritually formed, connected in community, and healthy in order to avoid burnout and to sustain their ministries for the long haul.