Human and Spiritual Formation Units

HSP 511 Introduction to the Spiritual Life of a Priest Required Theology I

An introduction to a priest’s spiritual life. Envisioned outcomes include: a knowledge and appreciation of devotion the Mary; an understanding of the spirituality of obedience, celibacy, and simplicity of life; a knowledge of the importance of communion with the Magisterium and the diocesan bishop; an awareness of and appreciation for various methods of disposing oneself to prayer; a knowledge of the importance of the examen, lectio divina and spiritual reading. Format: lecture and discussion. McDermott; two semester hours

HSP 512 Priestly Identity, Priestly Celibacy, Priestly Ethics Required Theology II

A continuation of the study of the life and identity of a priest. An examination of the professional ethics of the ordained ministry. A consideration of the doctrine and theology of the requirement of priestly celibacy in the Western Church. Envisioned outcomes: an appreciation of the vocation to the priesthood; a knowledge of the ethics of the ordained ministry; an awareness of the theology of celibacy. Format: lecture and discussion. Richard, Brennan, Rothschild, Harvath; three semester hours

HSP 513 Pastoral Issues Required Theology III

An in-depth investigation of counseling issues such as alcoholism, co-dependency, sexual abuse, marital infidelity, and other frequently presented client concerns. Special attention to crisis work with aging adults, terminally ill patients, family survivors of suicide, and incest victims. Envisioned outcomes: advance counseling skills in interpretation, intervention, and appropriate confrontation. Format: lecture, discussion, and in-class practicum. Harvath; three semester hours

HSP 514 Spiritual Theology and Spiritual Direction Required Theology III

A three part study: first, a consideration of the tenets of traditionally Catholic spiritual theology with attention given to the three processes of purification, illumination, and union; second, a consideration of prayer as faith, trust, and surrender to God with focus on John of the Cross, Teresa of Avila, and Elizabeth of the Trinity; third, a consideration of spiritual direction with emphasis on its aim, importance, and qualities required of the director. Envisioned outcomes: a knowledge of the principals of Catholic spirituality; an exposure to an in-depth consideration of prayer; an appreciation of the importance of priests being “specialists in promoting the encounter between man and God ( Benedict XVI); a knowledge of the purpose of spiritual direction and its importance in the life of every Christian. Format: lecture and discussion. McDermott; three semester hours

HSP 521 Supervised Ministry Ia Required Theology IHSP 522 Supervised Ministry 1b Required Theology I

A concentration on pastoral care of the poor, such as the St. Vincent de Paul Society or charitable outreach within the parish.

HSP 523 Supervised Ministry 2a Required Theology IIHSP 524 Supervised Ministry 2b Required Theology II

A concentration on care of the elderly, homebound, sick and dying. Includes home visits and hospital and nursing home ministry.

HSP 525 Supervised Ministry 3a Required Theology III HSP 526 Supervised Ministry 3b Required Theology III

A concentration on religious education, particularly classroom teaching. Can additionally include teaching in RCIA, RCIC, and/or Parish Adult Education programs.

HSP 527 Supervised Ministry 4a Required Theology IV HSP 528 Supervised Ministry 4b Required Theology IV

Fourth year transitional deacons serve in parishes as assigned by the Archbishop of Saint Louis.