The purpose of this year-long course is to deepen participants’ prehension and practices of faith in relation to the larger Christian narrative and the more particular narratives of diverse human communities and persons. To accomplish this, students will study communities of faith through reading, the arts, and observation, and they will reflect on their own faith traditions, spiritual formation, ethical commitments, and vocational discernment. Throughout the year, participants will also engage with ministering communities through guest lecturers, contextual immersions, and service in contextual placements. Such experiences will be enriched through ongoing reflection and faith sharing in weekly small groups. MDIV CORE REQUIREMENT (OPTIONAL CORE FOR MTS).