3. DIVISION OF PRACTICS

3.1 PASTORAL THEOLOGY (RELS)

Four courses (RELS 131, 132, 133, and 134) are classified as Christianity and Culture courses for the SPC/TWU joint program leading to the B.A. in General Studies degree from Trinity Western University.

* RELS 131 Introduction to Spiritual Issues - F
3 sem. hrs.
This course explores various aspects in the process of Christian Spiritual Formation. It begins with an overview of the way in which the Holy Spirit works in the lives of individual believers. An overview of the development, unique themes and challenges of Pentecostal Spirituality is provided. An understanding of God’s unique gifting in each student’s life will be uncovered as the class moves through the themes of spiritual gifts, personality, and the role of an individual’s life experience. Topics include spiritual disciplines, discernment, the development of a Christian mind and character, the issue of sin and evil, and hindrances to spiritual growth.

* RELS 134 Apologetics [OMEGA] - S
3 sem. hrs.
Presents a contemporary and reasonable defence of Christianity in a multi-faith and post-modern world. While emphasis will be placed on building a positive case for Christianity, appropriate negative objections will also be discussed.

RELS 234 Expository Preaching - S
3 sem. hrs.
Students advance further in understanding and skill in sermon preparation through the critical evaluation of their outlines and preaching under supervision. Lab period required. Youth Communication or equivalent course is a prerequisite for taking Expository Preaching.

RELS 331p Pastoral Theology - F
3 sem. hrs.
A study of the minister and his work. The pastoral office in general is considered in the areas of call, preparation, and qualification. The pastor's relationship to the church board, educational departments of the church, the District, and the denomination as a whole are each examined from a Biblical, spiritual and practical standpoint.

RELS 331w Women in Ministry - Q
3 sem. hrs.
A study of the Biblical and practical aspects that concern the involvement of women in the Christian ministry. Some attention is given to the Christian women's role in the home, in the community, and in society at large.

RELS 332 Christianity and Culture - S
3 sem. hrs.
A study of the place of Christianity in the secular, multicultural, “post-modern” world of North America. This course focuses on how Christians should understand contemporary North American culture. It explores dimensions of this culture that Christians should repudiate, what aspects Christians may be ambivalent about, and what aspects Christians should affirm. This course examines how the entertainment media, fashion industry, sports, and news media, function as the cultural conditioners of our society.

RELS 334 Leadership Development - F
3 sem. hrs.
Drawing from Biblical, theological, and social science sources this course constructs a theology of leadership development that will inspire ministry for the people of God. A primary focus of the course is to equip and mobilize individuals to build a vital faith community through small groups. Various approaches to small groups will be explored, including Bible studies, accountability groups, support groups, ministry teams and house churches. Topics include leadership recruitment and coaching, curriculum development, life cycles, problem people, multiplication, organizational structure and evaluation.

RELS 337 Urban Church Planting & Ministry - S
3 sem. hrs.
This course focuses on Christian mission and ministry in the world's growing cities, particularly the Greater Vancouver Region, with special attention given to church planting principles and strategies. The biblical basis for urban ministry and church planting is examined as well as case studies of effective urban missional strategies to reach people for Christ. Attention is given to urban issues such as ministry to the poor and homeless, pastoring and raising a family in the city, and reaching rapidly growing ethnic groups. This course includes field trips, lectures by church planters and denominational leaders, personal research into inner city, urban ministry methods as well as a self-directed reading component.

RELS 338 Local Church Leadership & Administration – F
3 sem. hrs.
A study of church administration and the leadership issues involved in church ministry. Topics include church facilities, building projects, architecture, financing, promotion, meetings and parliamentary law. Students will practice and use the principles of established parliamentary procedure for the chairing of effective meetings. Required for all graduating students seeking ministerial credentials. (Note: for those in the B.R.E. Program, assignments will be geared to their major.) RELS 430 Marriage and Family Counselling - S 3 sem. hrs. A seminar approach focusing on premarital, marital, family issues and specific problems related to the family. The student's self-examination of these areas will be encouraged. This course prepares the student to counsel premarital, marital and family related concerns. Research papers will be presented and discussed by class participants. Recommended prerequisite: Counselling.

RELS 335, 336, 435, 436 Pastoral Ministry Internship
1-3 sem. hrs.
An organized program for participation in Christian service activities under the supervision of an experienced pastor in a local assembly. In addition to church activities, students meet for one hour on alternate weeks in a practical work seminar. In both the Fall and Spring semesters interns may achieve 1.5 credits per semester for 10 hours of practical involvement per week. Normally internships are restricted to students in their third or fourth year of studies.

RELS 435, 436e Pastoral Ministry Internship (Evangelism)
1-3 sem. hrs.
An organized program for participating in Christian service in the area of Evangelism. Participants will work under the supervision of an active Evangelist or work with an active outreach organization. The student will comply with the college demands regarding the filing of appropriate reports and the completing of required assignments.

RELS 435, 436s Pastoral Ministry Internship (Summer)
1-3 sem. hrs.
A program for those engaging in suitable summer pastoral activities. It is expected that the program is of at least two month's duration. The student should arrange with the instructor in advance of the season to assure that they qualify for the credit.

If you have any questions about programs here at Summit Pacific College,
please feel free to contact Dan 604-851-7222 or Sarah 604-851-7224
(Toll Free 1.800.976.8388) or contact us through our Information Request Form.