Newest degree wins praise after first year
Jul 06, 2010
One year into the newest accredited master's degree in spiritual formation (MSF), the first class has given the program at Seminary of the Southwest high marks.
The program brings together study of Christian spirituality with engagement in its practice and reflection upon the theology that permeates it. The task force that designed the degree put "formation" in its name to signal the unity of doctrine and spirituality, of learning and living, a unity that effects personal change.
The founding class includes an Episcopal priest who finds this the right program for him at this time in his life, a youth minister who wants to be better equipped for her work, a journalist, and others seeking a course of study emphasizing practical application for work or for their own development.
"The best part of the program thus far has been the number of opportunities to articulate my faith in writing and in discussions with students and instructors", said student Marty Calliham. "I co-facilitated a workshop in my parish's regional conference this spring; before entering seminary I would not have had the confidence to accept this commitment and do the long and soul-searching preparation for it."
Other MSF students highlight the "community of learners", the teaching faculty, and "the people and being held accountable for presenting my own theological understanding in discussion and in writing and learning from and with others."
Intended as a three-year, part-time program, the degree is taught by full-time faculty at the seminary, as well as associated faculty. Each year begins and ends with a day retreat and, during the first two years, the coursework leaks into the students' lives as they choose a range of spiritual practices to accompany their studies.
More information is available on the seminary's website, www.ssw.edu or from the Office of Recruiting and Admissions, admissions@ssw.edu.
