MENLO PARK
St. Patrick's Seminary, 320 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025

OT572: SPIRITUALITY OF THE PSALMS. Anthony J. Petrotta
5-Digit CRN: 11153

DESCRIPTION:
This course investigates the types of spirituality found in the Psalms. Its focus is to describe the integration in the Psalms between theological truths and human experience. Opportunity will also be given to the normative role the Psalms play in our spiritual and theological development today.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
The Psalms have been described as the "prayer book of the Church." The Psalms mirrors our relationship with God and offers models to build upon our experiences of God. The course provides an opportunity for a renewed appreciation for the spiritual vitality of the Psalms and the role it can play in enhancing our ministry.

COURSE FORMAT:
The class will meet three hours per week for discussion and lecture on various psalms.

REQUIRED READING:
• Chan, S. Spiritual Theology. IVP, 2000
• Peterson, E.H. Answering God: The Psalms as Tools for Prayer. Harper San Francisco, 1991
• Lewis, C.S. Reflections on the Psalms. HBJ, 1958

RECOMMENDED READING:
• Allen. L.C. Psalms. Word, 1987
• Green, B. Like a Tree Planted. Liturgical Press, 1992
• McCann, Jr., J.C. A Theological Introduction to the Book of Psalms. Abingdon, 1993
• Davidson, R. The Vitality of Worship. Eerdmans, 1998
• Zanger, C. A God of Vengeance? Understanding the Psalms of Wrath. Westminster/John Knox, 1996

ASSIGNMENTS:
Weekly responses to the assigned Psalms and readings, and a final exegetical paper.

PREREQUISITES:
None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
Elective.

FINAL EXAMINATION:
No.

(7/00) Menlo Park: Winter, 2001