ME513/613: Perspectives in Global Christian Worship (4 units)

Roberta R. King, Associate Professor of Communication and Ethnomusicology
Fall 2006 Pasadena

 

 

DESCRIPTION:

This course pursues an in-depth theological study of Christian worship, with particular reference to appropriate cross-cultural worship forms. It focuses, more particularly, on the role, influence, and importance of worship in Christian witness, Christian formation, and church growth, especially within varying cultural contexts. A Biblical foundation and practical framework for effectively contextualizing, creating and leading in meaningful Christian worship will be developed.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Students will understand a Biblical theology of worship, particularly as it relates to mission.

Students will learn missiological precedents for contextualizing worship.

Students will develop practical tools of planning and leading worship in cross-cultural contexts.

Students will gain essential skills in doing worship ethnography.

COURSE FORMAT: Lectures, guest lecturers, worship demonstrations, audio and video clips, class discussions, and student presentations create a multi-media format. Participation in class activities, including worship sessions, is crucial for integrating theological reflections and developing appropriate worship patterns for varying cultural contexts.

REQUIRED READING:  If you have previously read any of the required texts, please select an alternative text from the recommended reading list or a book approved by the instructor.

Best, Harold M. Unceasing Worship: Biblical Perspectives on Worship and the Arts. InterVarsity Press, 2003.

Black, Kathy   Culturally-Conscious Worship. Chalice Press, 2000.

Carson, D. A., Ed. Worship by the Book. Zondervan, 2002.

Kroeker, Charlotte, Ed. Music in Christian Worship. Liturgical Press, 2005.

Law, Eric H. F. The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb. St. Louis, MO: Chalice Press, 1994.
McGann, Mary E. A Precious Fountain: Music in the Worship of an African American Catholic Community, Liturgical Press, 2004.

McGann, Mary E. Exploring Music as Worship and Theology. The Liturgical Press, 2002.

Peterson, David. Engaging with God: A Biblical Theology of Worship. Eerdmans, 1992.

Torrance, James B. Worship, Community & the Triune God of Grace. InterVarsity Press, 1999.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Dawn, Marva J. A Royal "Waste" of Time: The Splendor of Worshiping God and Being Church for the World. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1999.
Goens, Linda M. Praising God through the Lively Arts. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1999.
Hawn, C. Michael One Bread, One Body: Exploring Cultural Diversity in Worship. The Alban Institute, 2003.

Hoffman, Lawrence A. The Art of Public Prayer: Not for Clergy Only, 2nd Ed. Woodstock, VT: Skylight Paths Publishing, 1999.
Leisch, Barry. People in the Presence of God. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1988.
Martin, Ralph P. The Worship of God. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1982.
Piper, John. Let the Nations Be Glad. Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1993.
Webber, Robert. Celebrating Our Faith: Evangelism Through Worship. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1986.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. One typed, double-spaced, worship ethnography report, 2000-words, due week four.
2. A 500-word book critique for each of three required reading textbooks, due throughout the term.
3. A group-project presentation on worship-in-context.
4. A 2500-word paper addressing a specific aspect of worship with accompanying strategies for mission and/or ministry, due during finals week.

Th.M. Students: An additional 1250-2500 words on the final paper.

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective. Optional course in the Worship, Theology and Arts program. An option to meet WTA Concentration units in the Master of Divinity-Worship. 

FINAL EXAM: None.

Last Date Edited: July 13, 2006