Religion, Society and Change

REVISED

Fall 2012 and Winter 2013 quarters

Faculty

Joli Sandoz academic and creative writing, U.S. literature, research methods in the humanities , Rebecca Chamberlain (F) literature, writing, yoga , Suzanne Simons writing, journalism, sociology

Fields of Study

history, religious studies, sociology and writing

Preparatory for studies or careers in

community advocacy and service, religious studies, sociology, history, education, communication

Description

Religion, Society and Change is appropriate for students of any belief system, whether faith-based or secular. While students who enroll for all three quarters will receive the most depth of learning and experience, anyone is welcome to join the program at the beginning of fall, winter, or spring quarters.

This program centers on historical, cultural, theological, literary, and artistic aspects of religion and spiritual practices. Each quarter will balance intellectual study with hands-on explorations of religious practice and sacred texts. Fall quarter will open with study of origins and development of the three Abrahamic faiths—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—from their beginnings through the Medieval era. Visits to local faith communities, guest speakers, and a sacred art retreat in addition to lectures and workshops will deepen our understanding of these religions and their practices. Our work will draw on art, music, contemplative practices, and the literary qualities of sacred texts in addition to the political and socio-economic contexts of religious thinking and religious community development.

We will consider cultural roles of institutional religion, especially U.S. Christianity, during winter quarter by focusing on two very different social justice movements. The Civil Rights Movement of the first half of the 20th century—started and sustained by African Americans, and organized in important ways by and through clergy and faith communities—is a landmark in U.S. religious and political history, and an exemplar of American efforts toward social justice. Our second winter topic, following on Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, will be religious organizing and thinking in relation to climate change, planetary health, and effects on individuals and communities. Here we will examine contemporary religious statements, Biblical texts, and additional materials as we contemplate the part religion currently plays in U.S. political and social affairs and as we reflect on responses to natural disasters (once called "acts of God") and the people most directly touched by them.

Recognition and acknowledgement of human interrelationships and differences, including empathy and compassion, are important aspects of social justice work; program members will undertake faculty-supported service learning in local faith communities. We will also participate in a Tai Ji retreat held on campus. Reading, writing, reflection and collaborative work will be important aspects of instruction and of program energy, as we draw ideas and approaches from history, sociology, journalism and religious studies to inform our work.

Advertised Schedule

Fall: 6-9:30p Mon/Wed plus weekend classes: 5-8p Fri, 10a-5p Sat (Oct. 5-6, 13, 26-27, Nov. 10). Winter: 6-9:30p Mon, 6-8:30p Wed plus weekend classes: 6-9p Fri, 10a-5p Sat (Feb. 1-2); Feb 3 is optional.

Location

Olympia

Online Learning

Enhanced Online Learning

Books

Greener Store

Required Fees

$80 fall quarter for entrance fees and retreats; $10 winter quarter for workshop fees.

Internship Required

Students are expected to complete a minimum of 40 hours of internship/community service in winter.

Offered During

Evening and Weekend

Program Revisions