Pastoral care and counseling is the nurture of the soul, which is the missing element in much evangelical and mainstream spirituality. This course explores the depths of spiritual, psychological and relational theology which invites us to examine the inner realm of human nature and destiny and their impact on the person in familial, social and cultural contexts. The course will be divided into seven strands dealing with (1) The Human Soul: biblical and theological models; (2) The Relational Soul: familial and covenantal networks; (3) The Moral Soul: character and commitment; (4) The Passionate Soul: sensual and aesthetic; (5) The Suffering Soul: tragedy and triumph; (6) The Reconciling Soul: justice and compassion (7) The Spiritual Soul: wonder and obedience. Lecture, experiential exercises, group process, personal reflection will combine for the intensive journey inward and outward. 

What Others Have Thought:  

"Dr. Augsburger provided valuable resources for deepening my concepts of care, forgiveness, spiritual direction, and theological reflection."  

"The course was helpful in adding to my understanding of the "soul" and how to minister."    

Course Project:   

Students are to draw from the reading, lectures and class discussion to create a research project. Students will do a major research project on an aspect of pastoral care of the human soul preferably focusing on one of these seven strands and exploring its theological, psychological, ethical or relational impact.  

Sample Readings From This Course May Include:

Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. Life Together. Harper Collins, 1965.  

Boyd, Jeffrey. Soul Psychology: How to Understand Your Soul in Light of the Mental Health Movement. Soul Research Institute, 1994. 

Hauerwas, Stanley. A Community of Character. University of Notre Dame, 1981. 

L’Engle, Madeline. Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art. Harold Shaw, 1980.   

If you would like more information about this course please email the DMIN office at dmin@fuller.edu 

For a sample course description please click here.  NOTE: This is not to be used as a source for course preparation.