Pastoral Studies I: A Theory of Pastoral Practice (DP1001C)

Content

This unit presents and integrates three theoretical frameworks within which to consider pastoral practice in its day-to-day experience: psychological, anthropological, and theological. The psychological framework focuses upon human development, motivation, and the influence of the unconscious. The anthropological (philosophical) frame of reference assists students to understand ways of knowing and responding, with particular reference to the symbolic, freedom, and growth. The theological framework reflects on the principles of ecclesiology, grace, context, and faith. The aim of the unit is for students to explore notions of the self (including its personal and communal dimensions), to articulate the assumptions upon which we engage in pastoral practice, and to take responsibility for one’s stance.

Learning outcomes

Pedagogy

This unit offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the conscious, unconscious, communal, and contextual dialectics of the human person engaged in pastoral ministry. The unit offers a combination of input from anthropological, psycho-social, and theological sources and invites, through seminar and class discussion, critical reflection on useful frameworks for engaging in pastoral practice that is attentive, reflective, intelligent and responsible.

Indicative Bibliography

• Caligot, Eve, Otto Kernberg, John Clarkin. Handbook of Dynamic Psychotherapy for Higher Level Personality Pathology. Washington: American Psychiatric Publishing, 2007.
• Conn, Walter E. The Desiring Self: Rooting Pastoral Counselling and Spiritual Direction in Self-Transcendence. New York: Paulist Press, 1998.
• Cooper-White, Pamela. Shared Wisdom: Use of the Self in Pastoral Care and Counselling. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2006.
• Ghoson, Margaret. The Miracle of Love: A Guide for Catholic Pastoral Care. Bayswater: Coventry Press, 2018
• Graham, Elaine. Transforming Practice: Pastoral Theology in an Age of Uncertainty. Oregon: Wipf and Stock, 1996
• Kraft, Charles H. Christianity in Culture: A Study in Biblical Theologising in Cross-Cultural Perspectives. Rev. 25th Anniversary ed. Maryknoll: Orbis, 2005.
• McWilliams, Nancy. Psychoanalytic Diagnosis: Understanding Personality Structure in the Clinical Process. New York: Guilford Press, 2011.
• Rulla, Luigi M., Joyce Ridick, and Franco Imoda. Existential Confirmation. Vol. 2, Anthropology of the Christian Vocation. Rome: Gregorian University Press, 1989.
• Ormerod, Neil, and Jacobs-Vandegeer, Christiaan. Foundational Theology: A New Approach to Catholic Fundamental Theology. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2015
• Sweeney J, Simmonds G, and Lonsdale D. Keeping Faith in Practice: Aspects of Catholic Pastoral Theology. London: SCM Press, 2010

Assessment