As I’m preparing to graduate I have to do a graduation audit. I’ve discovered I’ve taken over 30 credits of “unnecessary” classes. Meaning, classes I didn’t need to fulfill a specific requirement. I did need the credit hours to graduate, but I think it’s really interesting looking over the classes I chose to take for these elective credits. I’m in the 4-year dual degree program so this list would be shorter if I did the 3-year MDiv program.
-Greek
-Hebrew
-Chapel Choir
-Clinical Pastoral Education
-Musical Resources for the Congregation
-Jewish Biblical Interpretation (taught by Dr. Cooper of Jewish Theological Seminary)
-Preaching the Sermon (workshop course)
-Theology of John Calvin
-Preaching and Life Passages
-Practical Theology as Drama (being in the spring play)
-Introduction to Christian Worship
-Presbyterian Worship
-Word and Act 1 & 2 (liturgy workshop course)
-Created in the Image of God
I loved my liturgy workshop courses. I learned how to hold an infant for baptism and where to put my hands during the benediction. Those classes in conjunction with theology, biblical studies, education, and history have made my semesters feel very balanced. I like the combination of theory and practice and theology in a constant, dynamic rotation. The Intro to Christian Worship class was great because it gave me the historical overview of our practices. Once I saw how our liturgies developed, I felt a lot more empowered in planning worship.
I also have a LOT of education and formation classes on my transcript because that’s my extra MA program. They don’t make this list because they’re required, but wow! My first was Spiritual Guidance through the Lifecycle. When I think about that class, I not only remember all the great things I learned. I remember who I was and marvel at how I’ve changed.
Well, that’s enough from me about my graduation audit! Here’s a picture of Jean-Luc Picard with a message for everyone:
