Cultural Contextualization in Christian Worship – WRSP 812

Course Description

An exploration of the practical integration of multicultural and cross-cultural worship practice within the church. Particular application is made to the worship practice in today's increasingly multi-cultural congregations.

Rationale

This course is designed to establish biblical principles for worship that are eternal and universal, while recognizing the great diversity within the various world cultures that are demographic in nature. The purpose is to provide for critical contextualization in the use of indigenous music for worship, discipleship, and evangelism.

Course Assignment

Textbook readings and lecture presentations

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (5)

Discussion are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student will post one thread of at least 350 words by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Thursday day of the assigned Module: Week. The student must then post 2 replies of at least 200 words by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Sunday of the assigned Module: Week. (CLO: A, B, C, D, E). 

Reading Reflection Paper Assignments (3)

The student will write three 5-6 page research-based paper in current Turabian format that focuses on 2 Modules: Weeks of readings. The page count does not include the cover page and bibliography, both of which must be present. Each paper must include at least 4 scholarly sources, which may include the course textbooks and the Bible. The student must reflect on his/her reading by summarizing and critically analyzing new topics and information. If provided, the student must respond to a specific prompt tied to the readings. (CLO: C, D)

Final Project Topic Submission Assignment

The student will read the instructions for the Final Project and submit a preliminary choice for his/her topic. The student will provide the name of his/her worship community, location, and how he/she will gain entrance into that worship community for the purposes of this project. The student must include at least 4 scholarly sources in current Turabian format and describe an initial plan to address the chosen issue of contextualization. (CLO: D, E)

Final Project Outline and Bibliography Assignment

The student will complete a 1–2-page outline based on his/her planned Final Project. In addition to the outline, the student will include a bibliography that lists at least 10 scholarly sources. The outline must include a thesis statement for the student’s project. Current Turabian format must be used. (CLO: A, B, C, D, E). 

Final Project Assignment

The student must choose a challenging issue of contextualization that has emerged recently in his/her own worship community. Then, using the materials from the course, research demographics, and other scholarly sources (at least 15 sources), the student will develop a plan to address the issue. A 2–3-page teaching module/sermon extended outline must be produced as an appendix, and the main body of the project must be 15-20 pages. The page count does not include the cover page, bibliography, or appendix. Current Turabian format must be used. (CLO: A, B, C, D, E)