History and Doctrine in the Methodist Tradition (ST 462)
This course provides an overview of United Methodist History and Doctrine, focusing on the works of John Wesley, the United Methodist Discipline, and the way in which our history and beliefs impact our day to day ministry. This 4 credit course begins with a three day intensive that focuses on the history of the denomination. From there, it moves online with several units on Denominational theology and practice.
A partnership with Pfeiffer University enables Wesley students to take this important hybrid course online via Blackboard and join Pfeiffer students in attending the weekend-long on-campus lectures at their Charlotte Campus in Charlotte, NC (Room 229 1515 Mockingbird Lane, Charlotte, NC 28209).
Course Dates:
Lectures on the Pfeiffer campus:
January 2nd, 2020: 2pm-9pm
January 3rd, 2020: 10am-6pm
January 4th, 2020, 9am-4pm
Online Until April 27th, 2020
Course Goals:
- Students will receive both a broad overview of the History of the United Methodist tradition while also delving into the distinctive experiences of women and people of color.
- Students will learn value of the history of Methodism and its impact on the church now.
- Students will explore the ways the Doctrine of the United Methodist Church came to be.
- Students will explore the various nuances of United Methodist Doctrine and its impact on their ministry setting.
Read the full syllabus for the course here.
Instructor:
Jonathan LeMaster-Smith, Ph.D.
jonathan.lemastersmith@garrett.edu
Jonathan LeMaster-Smith lives in Hildebran, North Carolina with his wife, Rev. Shannon LeMaster-Smith, and their three dogs. He holds a PhD in Christian Education and Congregational Studies from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. He regularly teaches United Methodist Studies, Rural Ministry, and Christian Education for several schools, including Wesley Theological Seminary.
Pre-Class Work (from the instructor):
Please read prior to the first class "A Brief History of the United Methodist Church" as found in The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, 2016, pages 11-24.
