Ambrose Seminary teaches contemplative spirituality in 2009-2010

Last year I posted an item citing courses in contemplative spirituality offered at Ambrose Seminary in 2008-2009. It came as no surprise to this blogger to find the following from the Ambrose Seminary calendar for 2009/2010 (pp. 74-75) under the category Theology and Christian Thought. To compare with last year's courses and for more on Ambrose Seminary and contemplative spirituality, see my previous post.

TH 660 Exploring the ‘Dream Experience’ in Christian Spirituality

The course will survey the significance and understanding of the dream experience in both eastern and western traditions. Special attention will be given to the role of the dream in the spiritual journeys of prominent Christians, the dream and the death experience, as well as to developing a Christian approach to dream interpretation. Students will gain from the course an historical/theological appreciation for the value of the dream within a Christian worldview as well as a sense of how to integrate dream interpretation with an understanding of one’s own spiritual journey.

TH 661 Exploring the "Desert Experience" in Christian Spirituality

An examination of the "desert/wilderness" experience in various traditions of Christian spirituality. An integrated biblical/historical/theological/formational approach to the subject is used to assist the student in understanding the nature and purpose of the "desert/wilderness" experience in the spiritual life of the church and the individual. A special feature of the course is a one-day guided silent retreat.

TH 662 Prayer Paths to God: The History and Practice of Christian Prayer

An advanced course which studies the historical theology and practice of Christian prayer as it pertains to understanding the role of prayer within the spiritual life. The course is taught from an ecumenical perspective and includes a prayer practicum in the lectio divina (praying with scripture).

For more detailed information on lectio divina, go here and here.