Curriculum
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FRAN 201
Franciscan Gospel Living in the Contemporary World
(3 IUs)
A study of theology and spirituality as the foundation of the Franciscan Gospel life with an emphasis on the challenge to shape a spiritual, historical, and Franciscan vision in the contemporary world.
An exploration of the pastoral and spiritual dimensions of Christian Franciscan tradition in terms of scriptural roots, historical development, and current interpretations--highlighting the relevance of Christian Franciscan values for living in the contemporary world.
Authored by:
Ramona Miller, OSF ~ Ingrid Peterson, OSF ~ Margaret Pirkl, OSF
FRAN 202
The Franciscans: A Family History
(3 IUs)
A study of the history of the three Franciscan Orders (Friars, Poor Clares, Third Order: Secular and Regular) with particular emphasis on their development and growth from the time of Saint Francis and Saint Clare until the present.
An explanation of the Franciscan Order in its historical context over the centuries and an examination of those factors, both internal and external, which influenced or led to the numerous divisions and reforms of the three branches.
Authored by:
Maurice Carmody, OFM
FRAN 204
Franciscan Spirituality
(3 IUs)
A study of the conversion and Gospel form of life followed by Francis of Assisi and his early companions in their concrete historical context. An investigation of the religious experience of these men and women, their encounter with and understanding of Jesus Christ, and the expression of their religious values.
This course will use a variety of historical tools to understand how Francis, Clare and their early companions made meaning of thirteenth century Italian society, and the consequences of their actions in that social context. It will introduce the adult learner to the reading of Franciscan texts and some of the challenges associated with studying the life of Francis of Assisi.
Authored by:
Keith Warner, OFM
FRAN 206
Clare of Assisi: Her Life and Writings
(3 IUs)
A study of Clare of Assisi as the co-founder of the Franciscan Movement, the "first Franciscan woman" to embrace Gospel life in accord with the example and teaching of Francis of Assisi. A study of the form of life Clare established at San Damiano; her struggles with preserving the privilege of poverty; and her legacy to the Franciscan Movement, the Church, and the world.
Authored by:
Roberta McKelvie, OSF
FRAN 207
Franciscan Prayer
(3 IUs)
An examination of the theology and spirituality of prayer in the Franciscan tradition based on the writings of Francis, Clare, and Bonaventure. Prayer as the foundation of Franciscan spirituality is considered, and the implications of this tradition for the contemporary Christian life are explored.
Authored by:
Ilia Delio, OSF
FRAN 400
Franciscan Servant Leadership
(1 IU)
This course is designed to acquaint the adult learner with the process of servant leadership through thoughtful use of the text, Handbook for Secular Franciscan Servant Leadership. This is not a theoretical course, but one based on the accumulated wisdom of the many contributors to the Handbook. These authors are members of the Franciscan Family and speak from first-hand experience. The assignments focus attention on models of servant leadership, common questions raised by fraternities, and techniques used in addressing specific fraternity needs.
Authored by:
Thérèse Ream, SFO
FRAN 401
St. Francis of Assisi, An Introduction
(1 IU)
This course is designed to acquaint the adult learner with the life and spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi. With the aid of class notes and the text Francis of Assisi: A Life, by Chiara Frugoni, the course examines the historical and spiritual forces which helped shape the little poor man from Assisi. The text is a historical biography which will introduce the learner to the reality of the life and times of the Saint. Questions at the end of each of the sections are designed to challenge the learner to reassess his or her own spiritual journey in light of the significant events which shaped St. Francis of Assisi.
Authored by:
Michael Higgins, TOR
FRAN 402
The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order: Origins, Development, Interpretation
(1 IU)
This course utilizes a study guide to make accessible the riches of the text "De Illis Qui Faciunt Penitentiam" The Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order: Origins, Development, Interpretation, authored by Fr. Robert M. Stewart, O.F.M.
Fr. Bob applied the tools used in modern Biblical scholarship to analyze the Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order promulgated on June 24, 1978. The book considers all of the Rules of the Secular Franciscan Order from the Primitive Rule (Francis' Earlier Exhortation) to the present 1978 SFO Rule. Special consideration is given to the meaning of the Primitive Rule's call to "do penance" and how that call to a life of "on-going conversion" can be understood and applied today.
Authored by:
Edward Zablocki, SFO
NOTE: Limited Scholarships Available