This is one of two MAC core courses in which recent efforts in the interdisciplinary study of psychology/sociology are brought to bear on the field of theology, scripture, and ethics in the provision of care. Both courses explore the unique challenges that their subject matter poses to theological claims about God, humans, and the nature and meaning of healing or suffering. Both consider how the integration of theory and practice help a chaplain to examine the contributions that theology and religious traditions offer to analyze and address the subject matter. These courses aim to familiarize students with a particular field of knowledge or area of study and to deepen their ability to respond theologically to the complex challenges confronting challenged persons and communities.

The core course “Religious and Cultural Contemporary Ethics” facilitates understanding of various ethical theories appropriate to professional context, spiritual and emotional dimensions of human development, organizational behavior, group dynamics, and political/social drivers like race, ethnicity, or gender. Making extensive use of case-studies and current journal articles, it addresses cultural or ethical challenges that particular contexts may bring to religious leaders. This course addresses the following Common Qualifications and Competencies for Professional Chaplains promulgated by the Board of Chaplaincy Certification, Inc.: ITP4, ITP5, PIC6, PIC7, PIC9, PPS2, PPS3, PPS7, OL1, OL2, OL3, OL4, OL5.

NOTE: This synchronous course is offered by our partner school, Hartford Seminary. For Spring of 2024, it will run from January 16, 2024 through May 1st, 2024.