PC352 Sp Tp: Psych and Theol Persp Rep
Prerequisite: TH 105 and PC 201
This course starts with the experience of U.S. mothers from a nationally representative study, and examines the attachment to their children that most mothers experience beginning in pregnancy. Due to mistimed pregnancy, lack of resources or fetal health problems, some women desire counseling, support, and resources during pregnancy. When abortion is chosen, many women and men later desire ministry to help with emotional and spiritual recovery. This course prepares pastoral ministers, social workers in Christian settings, and others to minister sensitively during pregnany or after an abortion or pregnancy loss, in the context of Evangelium Vitae and within the guidances of the USCCB's project Rachel Manual.
Psychological and biological research will be used as a starting point as we examine the theology of motherhood and fatherhood, an integrated aporach suggested in Mulieris Dignitatem. Recognizing that God himself is uniquely present in the creation of new life in his image, Evangelium Vitae reminds those in challenging pregnancies to "not be afraid" and that "with God nothing is impossible" while for those who have participated in abortion, the "Father of mercies is ready to give..forgiveness and peace in the Sacrament of Reconciliation."
Prerequisite
PC201 [minimum grade = D-] and
TH105 [minimum grade = D-]