2011-2012 Academic catalog
Programs of study 69
Master of Arts in Aging and Spirituality Note: The MAAS degree program has been approved and will be launched in fall 2012
M.A.: Professional degrees Oversight/location of the program within the Seminary: School of Practical Theology
Introductory statement of program goal In this “age of aging� there is an urgent demand in the church and society at large to equip professional leaders, such as clergy, educators, social workers, counselors, health care workers and congregational lay ministers, to effectively respond to the vast needs of our rapidly expanding elder population. This newly developed Master of Arts in Aging and Spirituality degree program is designed to provide a leading edge professional education to meet this need. The purpose of the Master of Arts in Aging and Spirituality degree program is to develop professional, skilled, and creative leaders to transform and guide the vision, attitude, and ministry practices of congregations, faith communities, and other social organizations with regard to the spiritual significance and social-spiritual realities of aging and elderhood.
Degree program objectives The aim of the Aging and Spirituality degree program educational experience is to equip and empower students (potential congregation and community leaders) to 1. Articulate a practical theology of human aging and elderhood grounded in the biblical narrative and orthodox theology with attention to the significance, spiritual, religious, and existential dimensions of older adulthood and informed by insights from human sciences, church tradition, and experience. 2. Demonstrate insight into the historic and current cultural contexts of aging among diverse populations applicable to the student, the potential and needs of older adults and those who support and care for them. 3. Demonstrate proficiency for professional, holistic spiritual nurture of older adults: congregational leadership; pastoral care; chaplaincy; program development; care giving; and advocacy. 4. Demonstrate personal spiritual integrity and maturity appropriate for professional older adult ministry leadership. 5. Demonstrate enhanced understanding of and commitment to personal and social holiness, through practices of moral and spiritual formation, in a context of accountability to a community of faith and dependence on the Holy Spirit.
Admission requirements and procedures Please contact the Admissions Office for admissions information.