Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2014-2015 (archived)

Module THMN1287: Introduction to Leading Worship and Preaching

Department: Theology and Ministry

THMN1287: Introduction to Leading Worship and Preaching

Type Open Level 1 Credits 10 Availability Not available in 2014/15 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • to provide an accessible introduction to key understandings and principles involved in leading Christian worship and preaching
  • to enable students to explore any potential calling to lead worship/preach and provide a foundation of basic skills in these areas of ministry suitable for those returning to learning.

Content

  • 1. What is worship? (including Biblical perspectives on worship).
  • 2. Outline history of the development of Christian worship.
  • 3. Approaches to structuring worship, including the strengths and weaknesses of different styles of worship (e.g. written or church liturgies, extempore).
  • 4. The role of liturgy and sacrament, including the seasons of the liturgical year, Eucharist and Baptism.
  • 5. The place and role of music, hymns, songs, drama, art.
  • 6. Using different senses and engaging people with different learning styles, including involving contributions from others and leading all age worship.
  • 7. The impact of the context (including building/environment).
  • 8. The relationship of worship to mission, pastoral care and theology.
  • 9. What is preaching? Its purposes and common approaches.
  • 10. Effective communication in preaching, including consideration of different principles and approaches in Christian education.
  • 11. An introduction to theological reflection as a basis for preaching, including a basic introduction to different theological approaches (systematic theology, practical theology, etc.).
  • 12. A basic introduction to issues in relating worship to contemporary life.
  • 13. Preparing and leading a worship service.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of this module, students should be able to:
  • know the key issues and personnel concerned with the development of Christian worship
  • articulate an understanding of worship within their own tradition and other Christian traditions.
  • discuss the nature and purpose of preaching within worship, including a basic understanding of different approaches.
  • Reflect on key theological principles for leading worship.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Engage in theological reflection on the challenges, opportunities and skills needed for developing effective communication and authentic worship within contemporary culture.
  • Plan and lead worship in well-informed and ways that are sensitive to local context.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Seminars will provide students with interactive sessions where they can learn some introductory principles, begin to engage with wider learning and reading on the topic, and be inducted into studying at this level. Contact time 20 hours

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours

Summative Assessment

Component: Worship Plan Component Weighting: 30%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
The content of the plan 500 words 100%
Component: Rationale Component Weighting: 40%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
A rationale explaining why the act of worship has been designed in this way 750 words 100%
Component: Written address Component Weighting: 30%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written address 1250 words 100%

Formative Assessment:

A reflection on a worship service that the student has observed (1000 words)


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University