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Theology
TH380-390 Special Topics
1-3 credits
TH398 Catechesis and Faith Formation 3 credits
Students understand, apply, and evaluate theoretical and practical approaches to catechesis, adult
faith formation, and teaching theology. Theoretical and practical elements are to be drawn from the
disciplines of education, religious education, and theology. While providing a sampling of theoretical
frameworks for educating within the Catholic faith tradition, the course also allows students to develop
basic skills according to their interests within the spectrum of faith formation opportunities within the
Church. Offered in alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite: TH209.
TH400 Christology 3 credits
This writing intensive course studies the development and interpretation of Christian theological
doctrine on the person of Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ. The course treats issues from the various
interpretations of the Gospel tradition to the development of doctrine (particularly in the councils of
Nicaea and Chalcedon) to modern interpretations of the role of Christ in systematic theology. Offered in
alternate fall semesters. Prerequisite: TH115 or TH209.
TH410 Theology of Pastoral Ministry 3 credits
Theology majors and minors examine both the theological and practical dimensions of the tasks of
ministering in different contexts, e.g., youth ministry, parish life, hospital chaplaincy, and campus
ministry. The course encourages the development of theological perspectives and pastoral skills
necessary for effective ministry in one or more of these settings.
TH420-429 Seminars in Theology
1-3 credits
TH460 Seminar in Youth Ministry 3 credits
Pastoral and youth ministry majors examine the theological and practical dimensions of youth ministry.
Particular attention is given to the specialized issues of ministry to adolescents through an examination
of the document “Renewing the Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry.” As a seminar, student
leadership in planning and developing the course is assumed. Offered in alternate spring semesters.
Prerequisite: TH209.
TH475 Senior Seminar 3 credits
Majors prepare professional credentials as well as collaborate with a professor to conduct research
within an area of their interest and the professor's expertise. Preparation of credentials may include
development of a personal mission statement, resume, and certifications relevant to national
standards for Catholic lay ecclesial ministry. Research approximates graduate-level study of classical
and contemporary perspectives that are doctrinal, academic, and/or pastoral. Offered spring semester.
Prerequisite: junior or senior status in the theology department.
TH497 Internship in Pastoral Ministry 1-17 credits
Pastoral and youth ministry majors and religious education majors test their aspirations and apply their
knowledge in professional and pastoral contexts. Students and the department’s internship coordinator
facilitate placement, planning, and assessment through the university’s internship office. The internship
usually involves a weekly group theological reflection. This internship is also coded as high school
teaching for religious education majors. This course requires the completion of a professional portfolio
and is graded pass/no credit.
Certificate in Pastoral Studies
Since 1998, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, in partnership with the Institute of Lay Ministry, Diocese of
Winona has offered students in the Institute of Lay Ministry, Diocese of Winona, the ability to register for
undergraduate credit through Saint Mary’s University for classes taken within the Institute. Ministry formation
requirements and hiring practices at the local level, have made it necessary for lay ecclesial ministers in the
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