Content

This unit investigates the idea of wellbeing presented by the Christian tradition, noting how it compares with other presentations of wellbeing. It examines the power of words to achieve fulfilment, particularly by means of Lectio Divina and its capacity to enlighten and transform. It explores the nature of spirituality by seeing its interface with psychology. It will analyse methods of approaching guilt and loss. The unit will examine those Christian rituals and meditation techniques which enhance wellbeing and health, including the healing of memory and psychological illnesses, and which enrich the lives of such persons as the frail, the house-bound, those in need of palliative care etc.

Unit code: DS9620C

Unit status: Approved (Minor revision)

Points: 24.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Elective

Unit discipline: Spirituality

Delivery Mode: Blended

Proposing College: Catholic Theological College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Demonstrate the technique of using the Scriptures in meditative prayer.

2.

Describe and evaluate how Lectio Divina can be used to enhance wellbeing.

3.

Elucidate the relationship of psychological to spiritual factors in meditation.

4.

Explain and critique how meditative prayer and rituals can help significantly improve the condition of mind and body.

5.

Apply and evaluate the use of Lectio Divina in a variety of contexts.

6.

Undertake research and analysis of meditation practices, prayer and well-being in a critically rigorous, sustained and self-directed manner.

Unit sequence

Graduate Certificate in Teaching Meditation

Pedagogy

Lectures help the students appreciate the many aspects of the complex subject and develop their ability to reflect and critique.

Indicative Bibliography

  • Altman, Donald. The Mindfulness Toolbox: 50 Practical Mindfulness Tips, Tools, and Handouts for Anxiety, Depression, Stress and Pain. Eau Claire, WI: PESI, 2014
  • Casey, Michael. Sacred Reading: The Ancient Art of Lectio Divina. Liguori,: Ligouri/Triumph, 1996.
  • Clément, Olivier. On Human Being - A Spiritual Anthropology. New York: New City, 2000.
  • Dupuche, John. Jesus, the Mantra of God: An Exploration of Mantra Meditation. Melbourne: David Lovell, 2005.
  • Kabat-Zinn, Jon. Full Catastrophe Living: How to Cope with Stress, Pain and Illness Using Mindfulness Meditation. London: Piatkus, 2013.
  • Longaker, Christine. Facing Death and Finding Hope: A Guide to the Emotional and Spiritual Care of the Dying. New York: Doubleday, 1997.
  • May, G. The Dark Night of the Soul: A Psychiatrist Explores the Connection Between Darkness and Spiritual Growth. New York: HarperCollins, 2004
  • McKinnon, Pauline. In Stillness Conquer Fear – Overcoming Anxiety, Panic and Fear. Mulgrave: John Garratt, 2008.
  • Ryan, Thomas. Prayer of Heart and Body: Meditation and Yoga as Christian Spiritual Practice. Mahwah: Paulist, 2001.
  • ———., ed. Reclaiming the Body in Christian Spirituality. New York: Paulist, 2004.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Essay

4500-word written assessment task

4500 60.0
Essay

2500-word written assessment task

2500 40.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Prof Albert Haddad on 27 Sep, 2022

Unit record last updated: 2022-09-27 15:47:44 +1000