THEO 5001 - Worship and the Arts

Course Description

This course explores the relationship between Christian worship and the creative arts (music, visual arts, drama, dance, poetry, etc.). While acknowledging that art making, for the Christian, functions inside and outside the church, this course focuses on creativity for the sake of the church at worship. Participants will not only consider biblical, theological, and historical foundations, but will engage in art making during this course.

Course Outline

Module 1: The Psalms, Lament and Worship

Module 2: Lyrical Theology and Poetry

Module Three: Visual Arts and God's Story

Module Four: The Life of the Church, The Life of the World

Learner Outcomes

To develop a biblically, theologically, and historically informed perspective on human affections, creativity, worship, and the arts within the life of the church.
To explore how specific art forms can serve the church as it gathers for worship.
To sharpen creative skills in community, by practicing spiritual disciplines and rhythms of art making.

Notes

This course will be comprised of a series of seminars, zoom sessions, and a daylong studio “lock out” . Throughout the course, students will commit to practicing various spiritual disciplines and regular creative work.