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Inner Sharing: Spiritual Direction And Pastoral Care, Richard E. Lamontagne

Doctor of Ministry

Spiritual direction is a way of assisting people in their growth toward spiritual maturity. Yet, spiritual direction remains a relatively unknown and undervalued link to the life of the spirit despite people's need for guidance. Often, ministers who are normally expected to offer spiritual direction are reluctant to engage in it. This dissertation proposes to reassure clergy and encourage them to risk engagement in spiritual direction. The first section seeks to clarify spiritual direction by providing definitions and distinguishing it from similar disciplines. The second section situates spiritual direction in the history, tradition, and present conversation of the Church. The …

Human Subjects Protection In Research: Are We Doing Enough?, Marsha L. Green

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Scientific research has produced substantial social benefits but has also posed troubling ethical questions with regard to the use and protection of human subjects. These questions have continued to be in the forefront of all biomedical and social research. The increased education of researchers on the subject of protection of human subjects has become of vital importance in the research world. This education involves program administrators, faculty, staff, students, research participants, and Institutional Review Board Committee (IRB) members. In this study of the University of Nevada, LasVegas (UNLV) human subjects’ protection program administration, the question to be answered was: has …

A History Of The Latter-Day Saints In The Columbia Basin Of Central Washington 1850-1972, Rick B. Jorgensen

Theses and Dissertations

The Columbia Basin of Central Washington has a relatively recent Latter-day Saint history among the regions of the western states. Most of the sparsely populated rural areas in the west that have large concentrations of Latter-day Saints were originally established as "Mormon" settlements. The basin referred to lies between the Snake and Columbia Rivers and now has thousands of Latter-day Saints who have chosen to inhabit the historically barren land and call it their home. A brief visit or casual observance of the area leads many to question what were the major factors and characteristics leading to the twentieth century …

Wesley's Groups: The Heart Of Early Methodism, Hamish Mcminn

Doctor of Ministry

No abstract provided.

The Moral Visions Of The Epistle Of James And Zhongyong, Stephen Oliver

Doctor of Philosophy Dissertation

This dissertation is a cross-textual study, designed to compare the moral visions of the Epistle of James and Zhongyong. The Epistle of James is a book of the Christian New Testament. Zhongyong is one of the Four Books of Confucianism.

This introductory chapter will present the relevance and method of this study. First, the ongoing relevance of the present topic will be introduced in the section entitled China and Christianity. This section notes the impact of Christianity on China, the Chinese impact upon Christianity, and the consequent importance of investigating Chinese thought in order to understand Chinese interaction with Christianity. …

Strategic Planning For The Source Of Light (Sol) Center Of University Presbyterian Church, Deborah Brandt Buchler

Pastoral Institute

University Presbyterian Church has recently developed an adult education program called The SoL (Source of Light) Center. In operation for nearly a year, the SoL Center is a faith-based education center for adults, who seek to explore the full dimensions of Christian life in the 21st century. A dynamic board of directors representing diverse theological and religious backgrounds has supported the SoL Center. These individuals have provided the leadership for the first year of operations.

For my pastoral project, I will utilize my organizational development coursework in combination with the Pastoral Institute study to facilitate the development of by-laws under …

Prostitutes' Understanding Of God, Gerardo Alberto Toledo

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

This study describes the understanding of God by twelve prostitutes of the Street 24 de Mayo, Quito, Ecuador. This understanding is presented and analyzed from a psychological and theological perspective. A way to call the area of knowledge here described is phenomenology of religion. The interviews were conducted on December 15 through December 29, 2001. The thirteen interviewed sexual workers (one interview tape was damaged) belonged to the Asociacion Pro Defensa de la Mujer (Association Pro Defense of Women), which has four hundred and fifty members, all sexual workers. The recorded interviews were done at the office of the mentioned …

Why Religious People Believe What They Shouldn't: Explaining Theological Incorrectness In South Asia And America, D. Jason Slone

Dissertations

Cross-cultural descriptions of religious thought and behavior in South Asia and America show that people commonly hold ideas and perform actions that seem to be not only conceptually incoherent but also “theologically incorrect” by the standards of their own traditions. For example. South Asian Theravada Buddhists are taught that the historical Buddha is unavailable because he attained enlightenment and achieved parinirvana (“complete extinction”) and yet conceptually and ritually represent him as if he is present and available for petition. Similarly, American Protestants represent the Christian God as having absolute divine sovereignty and yet reveal confidence in an inner locus of …

Powwows As An Arena For Pan-Indian Identity Formation, Megan L. Macdonald

Masters Theses

This study investigates the powwow and its role in pan-Indian identity formation. Powwows are regional gatherings that simultaneously employ sacred and secular rituals, and as such, they provide one arena for the negotiation of American Indian identity in the modern world. Through a discussion of the history and general format of the powwow, I will demonstrate that the powwow is a dynamic locus of cultural transmission through which both reservation and non-reservation Indians are able to construct and maintain identity on tribal as well as inter-tribal (pan-Indian) levels.

To illuminate the process of identity formation within the powwow, this study …

A Narrative Critical Approach To The Gospel Of Peter With A Focus On Its Christology, Roberto Bustamante

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The interest of our work is the Christology of the apocryphal literature. However, the limits imposed by a seminar paper force us to narrow our focus rather strongly. We will attempt to define the Christology of a single apocryphal Gospel, by applying narrative criticism. We consider that the fact that the text came to us in a narrative form implies a particular way of uttering its Christology and asks for a treatment adequate to its literary form. There are both reasons and reservations with respect to this method's appropriateness.

Integrating Faith In Family A Family-Centered Catechesis, Emma Stefanoni

Pastoral Institute

The purpose of this pastoral project is to develop a "catechesis directed toward families." The underlying principle of this pastoral project is that family catechesis is the work of the entire parish and that, as stated in the General Directory for Catechesis, family catechesis must proceed, accompany, and enrich all forms of catechesis. This project will be directed toward sixty families of Cristo Rey Parish in Austin, Texas during the Fall semester of 2001. It will consist of six, one and one-half hour sessions to families. The sessions, conducted in Spanish and English, will include experiences of prayer, large group …

Grace And Truth: A Divorce Theology For Missionary Organizations, Pennie Lynn Kemp

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Throughout church history, divorce has been a very sensitive subject, and with the divorce rate of the general population at almost fifty-percent, some controversy is inevitable. The issue becomes even more complex as more Christians, including church leaders and pastors, experience divorce. In light of this increase in the incidence of divorce, missionary organizations will inevitably encounter more divorced men and women who apply for service. The challenge for these agencies is to encompass a biblically based divorce theology that recognizes the seriousness of divorce on one hand while not appearing to submit to cultural influence on the other. This …

Corporeal Resurrection: The Pure Doctrine Restored Through The Prophet Joseph Smith, J. Peter Hansen

Theses and Dissertations

During Jesus' earthly ministry He taught the pure doctrine of corporeal resurrection to His disciples. Some of them became special witnesses to the literal bodily resurrection of Jesus after His death. Over time, men's philosophies perverted the true doctrine of the resurrection. Those teachings became the orthodoxy of the early Christian church and were handed down to modern Christianity. The pure doctrine of corporeal resurrection was weakened, and in some sects, was lost.

The Lord restored the gospel through Joseph Smith. Part of the Restoration qualified him as a special witness of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through him pure …

A Protocol For Assessing And Developing Spiritual Formation Among Council For Christian Colleges And Universities Schools In North America, Keith R. Anderson

Doctor of Ministry

The purpose of this dissertation is to develop a protocol for assessing and developing spiritual formation among schools affiliated with the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities in North America.

Problem: A paradigm that is deeply rooted in scripture, practical theology, and an understanding of spiritual formation is needed to assess programs for spiritual formation of traditional college students.

1. What is the need within its context? Articulates why a need exists among schools of Council for Christian Colleges and Universities? I will describe the historical context and provide original research from forty-two CCCV schools.

2: What is the approach …

Sin, Sickness, And Salvation From Nazareth To Lake Woebegone, David Schoessow

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

Ours is the ministry of bringing the prayers of the saints to God on behalf of the afflicted. Ours is the ministry of bringing to the afflicted God's healing gifts of absolution and Holy Communion. Our culture of death has little respect or appreciation for claims that such 'common medicines' bestow wholeness and life. So be it, we could expect little else. Let us not doubt the efficacy of these divine gifts in the lives of His people.

Armenian Christology And The Council Of Chalcedon, Joseph Watson

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The purpose of this study is to trace the historical and theological development of the Monophysitic Christology of the Armenian Church, especially as it is related to the Armenians' rejection of the Council of Chalcedon.

The first section of this paper will be devoted to a brief history of the Armenian Church, especially St. Gregory the Illuminator's role in Armenia's conversion to Christianity. The second part is devoted to the Armenian Church and its involvement with the first three ecumenical councils. The third portion of the paper will focus on the events leading to the Council of Chalcedon. Finally, the …

Virtue Ethics And The Place Of Character Formation Within Lutheran Theology, Joel Biermann

Doctor of Philosophy Dissertation

This study strives to provide a way for all parish pastors to reconsider the task of providing ethical training in a parish setting. The intent of this investigation is to encourage a shift in perception that will allow training in ethics to be evaluated and eventually adopted as both practically positive and theologically valid. Failing that ambitious goal, the study can at least prompt further discussion of the appropriate place of training in ethics, that is, teaching the practical matters of living the Christian life. Understood scripturally, the goal is quite simply to provide a way for congregations faithfully to …

The Implementation Of A Disciple-Making Process In The Local Church, Eldon Babcock

Doctor of Ministry

The project for this dissertation is to look at a disciple-making process for the local church and how to implement this process with a suggested curriculum. In order to accomplish this project I will visit five churches with the purpose of viewing the successes and failures of the disciple-making process that they may or may not have. In the first section of my dissertation I give an introduction covering why I believe the churches need a philosophy of discipleship and in later chapters address the need for one-on-one ministry that reproduces disciples for Christ. I will give definitions for Life …

Manasseh In Scripture And Tradition: An Analysis Of Ancient Sources And The Development Of The Manasseh Tradition, Steven A. Graham

Seminary Masters Theses

This is an examination of the history of the interpretation of King Manasseh in 2 Kings 21:1-18; 2 Chronicles 33:1-20 and several related verses. This study is undertaken in order to answer three related questions. First, why are there two differing accounts of Manasseh - one painting him as the model of evil and the other as the model of repentance? Next, what is the Manasseh tradition, and how has it developed within the textual histories of both Jewish and Christian milieus? Finally, what is the discrepancy between the biblical presentations of Manasseh and his reputation according to tradition? The …

The Indigenous Worship Voice, Kelly Ballard

Doctor of Ministry

No abstract provided.

A Way Of The Soul: The Use Of An Introductory Course In Christian Spirituality As A Path Towards Personal Ministry In The Local Parish, Newton W. Kerney

Doctor of Ministry

Committed laity in the local parish seek ministry opportunities with depth and purpose. The use of an introductory course in Christian spirituality as a tool towards personal ministry is one way to develop a more vitalized lay ministry within the local parish.

A definition of spirituality is proposed and used as a backdrop for the development of a course curriculum. The dissertation examines spiritual formation concepts in the Old Testament and New Testament with an eye to their application in daily life. Martin Luther's spirituality as expressed in scripture, catechism and hymnody is explored along with the spiritual formation concerns …

Trading Sex For Karma In Thailand: An Analysis Of The Reciprocal Relationship Between Buddhist Monastics And Thai Prostitutes, Amy Proskow

Honors Theses

Religions are often the foundations of societies. A person's religion helps guide his/her behaviors, thoughts, goals and priorities. Religious beliefs are often those beliefs that are adhered to most strongly; they hold incredible power over the believer and the non-believer alike. In many societies around the world, religion is used as a form of social control, and it is often the primary force behind governmental policies and social opinions and expressions. Examining social processes within a religious context allows us to analyze certain societies and their patterns of interactions in a very deep and detailed manner. A particular society or …

A Wesleyan Understanding Of Grace As Responsible And Therapeutic: A Path To Transformational Spirituality, Katherine Simmons Conolly

Doctor of Ministry

The ministry problem addressed in this dissertation is the need for spiritual transformation. Christians are called to transformation into the image of Christ. John Wesley's understanding of grace as both responsible and therapeutic is one pathway to this transformation. He believed that grace was the interaction of God and humanity, where God reaches out to us and we are to respond. The more we respond, the more we are able to respond. This is responsible grace. And as we grow in grace, the result is a growth in holiness, or into the likeness of Christ. This growth is not just …

An Exegetical Study Of 1 Corinthians 15:42-49 Theological And Historical Contexts, Jennifer Leese

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

An Exegetical Study of 1 Corinthians 1542-49 Theological and Historical Contexts

Mesopotamian Imagery And Influence In The Book Of Daniel, Eric Jensen

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

Sometimes neglected in the scholarly literature on the book of Daniel is the investigation into Mesopotamian parallels and influence linguistically, culturally, and literarily on its content and composition. However, some recently published articles are giving the subject of Daniel in its Near Eastern milieu the attention it deserves. This paper will examine two of these recent essays and one earlier work on the subject, and posit some original ideas on possible Mesopotamian influence particularly in regard to oneiromancy (dream interpretation) and animal imagery in the book of Daniel.

Three Women In The Fourth Gospel, Debbie Lamm Bray

Doctor of Ministry

No abstract provided.

Contemporary Biblical Instruction For The Early 21st Century: A Ten-Year Plan For Endurance Ministries, Inc., Jon P. Swanson

Doctor of Ministry

The purpose of this dissertation is to present a biblical, historical and personal theology on the theme of eschatological deception with the intent of serving the people of God in Jesus Christ through educational ministries that address this concern in a balanced, contemporary manner. Given Christendom's universal epistemological allegiances, a biblical theology is first presented. The Word of God continues to be that blessed lamp unto our path. After a simple exegetical consideration of key pertinent passages that speak to this theme of deceit, a brief but sufficient historical sketch of specific end-time themes relating to deception will follow. Both …

Systemic Catechesis, Kevin Wyssmann

Doctor of Ministry Major Applied Project

Systemic Catechesis is designed to merge several academic disciplines into a new catechetical model. Learning theories, systemic psychology, and a distinctive Lutheran approach to confirmation are combined in an effort to catechize whole family systems while specifically targeting junior high youth. This multifaceted program utilizes class time, home work, periodic evaluations, camps and retreats to maximize learning. The results of this project is a two-year curriculum that fully integrates educators, congregation, and the family into the catechetical process.

Moderate Political Islamism As A Possible New Social Movement, Joshua Alan Stacher

Archived Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

The Terms Of Empowerment, Sherine Hafez

Archived Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.