Disciples of Christ History and Polity

Orlando, Florida

July 13-16, 2013

John M. Imbler

Stephen J. England Associate Professor of the History of Christianity and Disciples Studies

PURPOSE: This course will present an overview of the history, theology, and traditions of the 19^th century Stone-Campbell movement as foundational to current forms of Disciples worship, missions, and ministry: denominationally, ecumenically, and culturally.

GOALS/OUTCOMES:

1. To integrate intellectual understandings with practical applications for the function of ministry within the (Disciples of Christ). 
2. To become knowledgeable of resources and content in order to provide informed, responsible leadership to Disciples congregations and related organizations.
3. To foster an appreciation of the heritage and practices of the denomination in its congregational, regional, and general expressions.

METHOD: During the Orlando General Assembly, a variety of topics will be presented. On Saturday, attention will be given to Disciples history and theology as well as current orders and processes of ministry. Sunday through Tuesday evenings, business items and assembly worship services will be discussed as reflective of the denomination’s identity and mission. Readings, lectures, discussions, and guest speakers along with media presentations will constitute the course’s format.

 
AUDIENCE: This course is structured for ordination candidates:

1. Masters-level students attending seminaries where Disciples studies are not readily available;
2. Non-M.Div. seminary graduates needing a history and polity course to meet requirements through the apprentice track; and
3. Ministers from other denominations seeking transfer of credentials to Disciples through their regional ministry committees. Auditors may enroll but will be expected to complete all reading assignments, participate in class conversations, and attend all scheduled course sessions.

 COST:  Special Student-$750.00 (plus books and supplies)  Audit Student-$265.00 (plus books and supplies)

 
REQUIREMENTS: Pre-class reading assignments, a paper to be turned in at the beginning of class, and a paper due in August will be necessary in order to receive a grade.

 
ATTENDANCE: To receive academic credit for this course, students must attend all class meeting listed in the course schedule.

TO ENROLL:  Please click here for an online application.

 
SCHEDULE:

TEXTBOOKS:

Pre-class readings:

• Cummins, D. Duane. The Disciples: A Struggle for Reformation. Chalice Press, 2009. ISBN 978-  0-8272-0637-3
• Kinnamon, Michael and Jan Linn. Disciples: Reclaiming Our Identity, Reforming of Practice. Chalice Press, 2009. ISBN 978-0-8272-0635-9
• Toulouse, Mark G. Joined in Discipleship: The Shaping of Contemporary Disciples Identity. Chalice Press, 1997. ISBN 0-8272-1710-2

Bring for reference:

• Foster, Douglas, et al., eds. The Encyclopedia of the Stone-Campbell Movement. Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2004. ISBN 0-8028-3893-7
• 2012 Yearbook and Directory of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
• 2013 General Assembly Program Book
• “Theological Foundations and Policies and Criteria for the Ordering of Ministry” – download from www.disciples.org or Google: Theological Foundations and Policies and Criteria for the Ordering of Ministry.