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91 CHRISTIAN FORMATION AND SOUL CARE Denver Seminary's Christian formation courses reflect the Seminary's understanding of the value of the ancient Christian ministry of spiritual friendship, mentoring, and direction. Students are welcome who have an interest and/or call to the ministry of soul care, which centers on deepening the Christian's life of prayer and relationship with Jesus Christ. CF 501 Biblical and Historical Foundations of Formation and Soul Care This course explores the foundations of formation and soul care in authoritative scripture, theology, and church practice through the centuries. It further examines the interpersonal relationships between caregiver, directee, and the Holy Spirit, as well as how this ministry has been exercised in major branches of the church. Offered fall semesters. Two hours. CF 502 Theology and Practices of Christian Formation Healthy spiritual habits constitute important means by which God affects spiritual formation. This course identifies obstacles that impede spiritual progress as well as biblically based disciplines that advance growth in wholeness and holiness within the context of family, vocation, and society-at-large. Offered spring semesters. Two hours. CF 511 The Spiritual Journey and Human Development The focus of this course is the Christian spiritual journey, with exploration of several biblical and extra- biblical models of spiritual development. Special attention is given to a biblical/theological framework for spiritual development and integration with theories of human development. Soul care involves the ability to discern where directees, in their God-given uniqueness, are on their journey; how hostile spiritual forces oppose progress; and how growth is achieved through the Holy Spirit, the ministry of soul care givers, and other formational experiences. Offered spring semesters. Three hours. CF 513 The Practice of Soul Care This course explores the practice of spiritual direction and soul care as informed by the ministries of biblical caregivers, particularly Jesus of Nazareth. Also examined is the practice of discernment in soul care, the practical concerns of initiating, sustaining, and concluding soul care relationships, and guidelines for dealing with ethical and legal considerations. The course also includes the experience of offering in- class soul care/spiritual direction to fellow students, peer discernment, and review of each student's work in a supervisory environment. Offered fall semesters. Three hours. CF 515 Creating Transformational Cultures and Communities Explores how formational and guidance ministries can be cultivated in church communities, parachurch organizations, and educational institutions. Offered spring semester, even years. Two hours. CF 601 Formational and Healing Prayer Explores the role and function of prayer in the healing, transforming, and empowerment of the whole person. Offered summer session, even years. Two hours. CF 602 Spiritual Formation for Life and Ministry This course is designed to give understanding and experience of spiritual formation and its practices as defined by the New Testament and the history of the disciples of Jesus. At times, spiritual formation has been stereotyped as being at odds with ministry and mission: inward focus versus outward focus. The course will demonstrate the biblical and historical integration of the two, particularly with a view to the insights of the ancient church. Offered spring semesters. Two hours.