Fall 2012 SCUPE courses

Eco-Justice: A Vision for a Sustainable City (SCUPE SH 307)

Three hours — Dr. Clinton Stockwell; Pam and Lan Richert
Oct. 12-13, 19-20, 26-27; Fridays 1-9 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
The church has a significant role in developing a holistic vision for a sustainable city as an outworking of the concept of shalom, a just peace. The course will evaluate the three components of sustainable community development: the three E’s of economics, environment and equity (or social justice). Participants will explore the course topic via readings, panel discussions and site visits. Students will have the option of developing a project or ministry proposal that explores a key issue such as energy policy, food production, environmental justice or pollution, and how these challenges relate to the central course themes. Central to the course is the question, “What does it mean to be a sustainable urban community?”

Public Issues in Urban Ministry (SCUPE SH 307)

Three hours — Dr. David Frenchak
Nov. 2-3, 9-10, 16-17; Fridays 1-9 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
We will learn public theology by doing theology. Doing theology begins by identifying the theological issues that underlie urban culture, economy, politics and society. The class will practice a process of theological reflection rooted in an interaction of biblical insight, as it relates to Christology, principalities and powers, and social justice. Exercising prophetic imagination and using the city of Chicago as a learning laboratory, the class will explore what it means to pursue and advance substantive Christian moral values in the midst of systemic injustice and secular society.

Public Theology and the City (SCUPE  BTH303)

Three hours— Dr. David Frenchak
Sept 7-8, Oct 26-27, Dec 7-8; Fridays 1-9 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: Saint Paul, Minn.
Public theology in the city is an art form that brings the separate elements of diversity together in a way that images the kingdom of God on earth. Public theology, in contrast with private or individual theology, is a collaborative process best learned in the context of urban diversity where public concerns or issues are found. Together, in partnership with an urban church, the class will learn the basics of the art of doing public theology that leads to redemption and transformation of social sin.