ELD4460EN - Global Adult Faith Formation: Theology, History & Method

Course description

This course explores global adult faith formation by examining theological frameworks, historical movements, and practical methodologies. Students engage with different cultural approaches to spiritual growth and the impact of these approaches on faith development. Emphasizing missional perspectives, the course integrates theological insights with practical strategies for fostering spiritual growth. Through interactive exercises, students learn to apply effective methods for nurturing faith communities across diverse global contexts, supporting adults in their spiritual journeys.

How this course benefits students

Students are equipped with the skills and perspectives needed to engage with and support diverse faith communities globally by providing a thorough understanding of adult faith formation through theological, historical, and practical lenses.

Why this course is important

Students learn global and cultural faith practices that equip them with practical skills as they address urban and social challenges, promote cultural sensitivity, empower leadership, support faith formation, align with global missional efforts, and foster lifelong learning and adaptability. These aspects collectively contribute to the course’s value in preparing students to make a meaningful and informed impact on faith formation across diverse contexts.

Credit hours
3 hours
Subject area
Emerging Leadership
Educational level
Bachelor
Learning type
Instructional
Prerequisites
None
Upcoming terms
Pending
* Schedule subject to change. Please contact the Registrar's office with schedule questions.
Professor
Dr. David Flood, Professor of Gen Z and Urban Youth

How this course relates to missional core values

Biblically based

Spiritual growth, missional living, and community formation are central themes in scripture. This course integrates theological frameworks with practical strategies for supporting adult faith development, aligning with the biblical mandate to make disciples, participate in God's mission, and foster spiritual growth across diverse cultural contexts. By grounding its content in biblical teachings and applying these principles to modern faith formation practices, the course offers students a thorough and theologically robust approach to global adult faith formation.

Missionally driven

Emphasizing the integration of missional strategies, focus on transformative impact, practical engagement, and development of effective missional strategies, students address diverse needs that contribute to broader missional goals that make a meaningful difference in faith communities worldwide.

Contextually informed

Through the examination of global and cultural settings, integration of historical and theological perspectives, focus on urban and social issues, practical and experiential learning methods, strategic development, and emphasis on local leadership and empowerment, this contextual approach ensures that students are well-equipped to understand and address the unique needs of diverse faith communities worldwide.

Interculturally focused

The exploration of global practices, contextual theological insights, practical applications in diverse settings, and emphasis on cultural sensitivity and adaptability provide students with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate and engage with different cultural contexts. This ensures that they are prepared to develop and implement faith-formation strategies that are both effective and respectful of cultural diversity.

Practically minded

By employing interactive learning techniques, analyzing real-world case studies, and emphasizing practical methodologies, the course ensures that students are well-equipped to apply their knowledge effectively. The course’s focus on missional perspectives, community engagement, and professional skill development further enhances its practical orientation, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to global adult faith formation.

Experientially transformed

Students undergo a transformative journey through collaborative learning, immersive experiences, practical application, and field-based engagement. This experiential approach enhances their understanding of global faith formation while equipping them with the skills and insights necessary to make a meaningful impact in diverse faith communities.