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Christian Universalist Association Ordination Program

Course Requirements

See for the list of readings. The reading and the papers can be done in any order you wish.

VI.COURSE ASSIGNMENTS:

  1. OLD TESTAMENT: read all the required passages. You may read more if you wish to. Point to any passages, verses, or words which appear to support a belief in universal salvation or universal restoration. Write down what you think those passages, verses, or words say about universal salvation/restoration. The focus may either be on this life, or on life after death, or both. (1000 words minimum)
  1. NEW TESTAMENT: read all the required passages. You may read more if you wish to. Point to any passages, verses, or words which appear to support a belief in universal salvation or universal restoration. Write down what you think those passages, verses, or words say about universal salvation/restoration. (1000 words minimum). There will also be an exam for this section.
  1. CHRISTIAN UNIVERSALIST THEOLOGY: read four of the books presented. At least two books must by Fristad, Stetson, Talbott, or Beauchemin. You may read more if you wish to. Write a report on each one, noting their principal points and important themes. Do you find the author’s presentation convincing? Why or why not? (300 words minimum for each report)
  1. CHURCH HISTORY/HISTORY OF CHRISTIAN UNIVERSALISM: read the required books and essays. How and why did CU faith fade away in the Dark Ages, and can you see a connection there? How did it come back during the Reformation and the rise of Protestantism? Why do you think the Universalist Church of America declined and lost its Christian roots? Do you think the present age will see a great revival of Christian Universalism? There will be an exam on this section.
  1. ETHICS AND PASTORAL CARE: read two of the books. Would being a minister require you to live up to a higher standard in your daily life than it would otherwise? How couldyour behavior testify toyour faith that God loves everyone and will save us all? What is the difference between being a pastor and being a friend? (1000 words minimum)
  1. LIVING THE GOSPEL. Read two books from the list, and read two articles from the packet (one article must be by Stetson or Edwards). How does the author of each book give you ideas and/or guidelines for living the Gospel in your own life? Do the two books you readsupport or draw from a belief in the salvation of all people? Do the concepts of theosis and divinization fit your understanding of spiritual growth and living the life of a disciple of Jesus? (1500 words minimum)

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