Pastoral Ministry and Priesthood (DP1500A & DP2500A)

Semester: 2, 2022 (25 Jul – 28 Oct)

Time: 6:30pm-9:30pm

Campus: N/A

Mode: Online

Level: Undergraduate Level 1 & 2

Credit: 18

Census: 16 Aug 2022

13 weekly sessions offered in asynchronous and synchronous modes combining live and pre-recorded lectures, group discussions, readings and online forums

This unit is divided into two main sections. Firstly, it will discuss a theoretical analysis of priesthood, ministry and pastoral care in the Orthodox tradition and contemporary life. Secondly, the unit will also study practical applications of the Church’s vision and experience to issues of priestly and pastoral life and service in the Church today. The unit will examine questions such as: How does the unique priesthood of Christ relate to the priesthood of all Church members and to the specific priesthood of the presbyter/bishop? How do we understand the Church to be both hierarchical and conciliar? How are we to understand the role of women?

Learning outcomes
  • Explain the relationship between the diaconate, presbytery and the episcopate and their interaction in the practical functioning of a diocese
  • Reflect on the pastoral role of the priest in the local parish and with the diocese and how to harmonise their competing roles and responsibilities
  • Evaluate the role of women in a local parish of the Orthodox Church
  • Appraise a parish’s or diocese’s goals for mission
  • Describe the inter-relationship between the growth, development, administration, community participation and philanthropy of a parish
Assessment
Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Written assessment Essay 2,500 60
Written assessment Essay 2,000 40

SAC offers courses in diverse fields of theology. We offer postgraduate and undergraduate study options on-campus and online.