MTh Prospectus 2009

The Association For Theological Education by Extension

Master of Theology (MTh)

Applied Theologywith Specialisations in

Pastoral PracticeMission Practice

Development Practice

This degree is validated and awarded by the federal University of Wales,UK.For further details regarding the University and its validation services,

please log on to www.walesac.uk/valadition or email [email protected].

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PROSPECTUS


PROSPECTUS

for entry into TAFTEE's 3 yearPostgraduate Course

in

APPLIED THEOLOGYwith Specialisations in



Leading to the Award of

Master of Theology (MTh)

This degree is validated and awarded by the federal University of Wales,UK.For further details regarding the University and its validation services,

please log on to www.walesac.uk/valadition or email [email protected].

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Part of TAFTEE's Advanced Level Distance Learning Programme.

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Message from the Director...

Since its foundation in 1970 the Association for Theological Education by Extension (TAFTEE), widely recognised as the most important grass root level discipleship and ministry training movement in India, has been offering various innovative leadership development programmes at different levels. Among the pioneering programmes launched by TAFTEE over the years, the MTh course in Applied Theology is unique in many ways. This course, characterised by academic excellence, cost effectiveness and ministry enhancement, has taken our vast experience in offering field based practical theological education to newer heights. This course is specially designed for those involved in various forms of Christian ministries who wish to improve their ministry skills and enhance their competency for an effective ministry beyond the B.D. level without having to interrupt their ministry.

This MTh course, validated by the Wales University, provides high quality ministerial training of international standards to Indian Church leaders. It costs a lot of money for a student to pursue an MTh course in Britain. But this MTh course makes available the same level of academic excellence and achievement to Indian students in their context at a very low cost. Though the Wales University awards the degree the curriculum reflects the advanced level leadership training needs of the Indian Church. Based on a holistic approach to ministerial training, the curriculum integrates guided study of well designed self study materials on different disciplines related to Christian Ministry, residential schools guided by subject experts, seminar meetings and tutorials with ministry mentors and active involvement in ministry. Our link with most of the denominational Churches also helps in effectively offering this course in India.

This prospectus contains information about our MTh in Applied Theology with specialisations in Pastoral Practice Mission Practice and Development Practice and an application form. Every year up to 30 select candidates with passion for mission and ministry and a desire for advanced training will be admitted to the course. We also provide partial mentoring scholarships to those who cannot afford the course fees. I invite you to join this unique ministry training course which, I am sure, will benefit you and equip you further to serve Christ and His work in India and the neighbouring countries.

David SamuelDirector, TAFTEE.

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Professor D P DaviesJohn James Professor of Theology and

formerly Pro Vice-ChancellorUniversity of Wales, Lampeter

Message from the University of Wales...

I am very pleased to commend the Masters course in Applied Theology to prospective students in India. The course offers students working in an Indian context an opportunity to ground their academic study of theology in their practical experience. This then enables them to reflect critically on their practical experience of pastoral ministry and mission practice and to return to it with an enhanced understanding of what it means to be a minister of God’s word.

I have been associated with this programme as the University of Wales Moderator from the outset and am proud of the way it has been developed at TAFTEE. The University of Wales (one of the largest in UK) is the validating University for over eighty different programmes, involving over 10,000 students in more than twenty countries around the world. This programme at TAFTEE is one of the most exciting we validate that it enables those who follow it to make a real difference, not only to their own lives as individuals but also to the lives of those among whom they live and work.

Professor D P Davies

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C O N T E N T S

The Association For Theological Education By Extension................................6The Aims Of The Course......................................................................................8The Objectives Of The Course.............................................................................9Background And Rationale..................................................................................9Ministerial Formation.........................................................................................10Course Features...................................................................................................11Course Synopsis...................................................................................................12The Structure Of The Course.............................................................................13Method Of Study..................................................................................................14Course Process.....................................................................................................14Course Teams.......................................................................................................17Area Tutorials......................................................................................................18Residential Schools..............................................................................................18Recruitment Criteria...........................................................................................19Fees........................................................................................................................20Procedure For Application.................................................................................22Outline Syllabus...................................................................................................23Future Developments...........................................................................................28Other Taftee Programmes..................................................................................28

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RECOGNITION OF THE DEGREE

The University of Wales:This MTh course in Applied Theology is validated by the University of Wales as part of TAFTEE's integrated Masters Programme. The University of Wales, which was founded by Royal Charter in 1893, is a large and distinctive federal University comprising eight member institutions - six Constituent Institutions and two University Colleges - whose activities it exists to support and which are closely involved in its governance. The University is the degree-awarding authority for its member institutions and for other higher education institutions in the United Kingdom and overseas with which it also enjoys close links. Annually, it awards more than 14,000 initial degrees and 3,500 higher degrees. The University of Wales is the second largest degree-awarding body in the United Kingdom. Apart from its member Institutions and Associated Institutions, there are over 50 other Colleges and other institutions in Britain and overseas which offer degrees that are validated by the University of Wales.

Asia Theological Association:Students may register for an MTh in Applied Theology accredited by the Asia Theological Association (ATA). The Asia Theological Association is a network of more than 100 theological colleges throughout Asia which seek to enable appropriate training of Christian leaders within the Asian context.

Church Recognition:This MTh course is recognised by many Churches, Dioceses and Christian Organisations as an appropriate advanced level training programme for those actively involved in Christian mission and ministry. Several of our graduates and present students are senior leaders in their denominations and Christian organisations. Students have been sponsored by:

Arcot Lutheran Church Bethesda Bible Seminary, B’lore

Central Bible College (AG), Delhi CNI Agra Diocese

CNI Amritsar Diocese CNI Delhi Diocese

CNI Jabalpur Diocese CNI Nagpur Diocese

CSI Coimbatore Diocese CSI East Godavari Diocese

CSI Kanyakumari Diocese CSI Tirunelvelli Diocese

CSI Trichy Diocese CSI South Kerala Diocese

CSI Vellore Diocese Church of the Nazarene

Cuttack Baptist Church, Orissa Evangelical Fellowship of India

Evangelical Free Church Gospel Echoing Missionary Society6

Indian Evangelical Mission Interserve, India

Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association Methodist Church in India

New India Bible College Pentecostal Holiness Church

Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church Tamil Nadu Bible College (AG)

Scripture Gift Mission Southern Asia Bible College (AG)

Vacation Bible School Ministries


The Association for Theological Education by Extension (TAFTEE), based in Bangalore, India, has been involved in offering non-residential theological education since 1971 to those who are unable to avail of Residential Theological Education.

Mission Statement: To assist the Church in preparing all God's people for the work of Christian service through Open and Continuing Theological Education.

Aims: TAFTEE is committed to provide theological education that is:

accessible - enabling all the people of God to be equipped for Christian service, irrespective of denomination, educational background, gender or ethnicity.

applied - enabling students to reflect thoughtfully on their involvement in Christian mission and ministry and so to improve their effectiveness in ministry.

academic - making the best use of scholarly tools and educational technology to enable students to enhance the effectiveness of their ministry.

appropriate - allowing students to reflect on the Gospel in a contextually and culturally appropriate manner and so increase the relevance of their ministry in the Indian context.

accredited - creating links with churches and academic institutions to ensure the accountability of its programmes for effective mission and ministry in the local church.

affordable - offering cost effect programmes so that all sections of people can afford to study and equip themselves in the knowledge of God.

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apostolic - enabling students to understand and grow in the apostolic teaching of the Christian faith as affirmed in Christian scripture.

TAFTEE already offers a range of courses for various constituencies.

Approximately 6000 students are currently enrolled on TAFTEE's Certificate Level Course, which is offered in nine different languages.

TAFTEE's degree level course (B.T.S.) is presently studied by approximately 1000 students. This course is accredited by the Asia Theological Association as equivalent to B.Th.

TAFTEE offers this Distance Learning MTh in Applied Theology as part of its Postgraduate Level Programmes.

TAFTEE is a recognised collaborating Institution of the British Open University for offering Research Degrees.

From April 1994-2002, TAFTEE offered an MTh in Applied Theology in India in partnership with Westminster College Oxford as part of its Open Learning Programme. This course proved remarkably popular and also effective in helping Christian ministers deal seriously with their context of ministry. This course was basically aimed at those in ordained Christian ministry or those with a degree in Theology who are in full-time Christian ministry. The present programme in Applied Theology validated by the University of Wales, allows students to complete an internationally recognized MTh while remaining in India.

As an institution that is committed to education by the Open Learning method at all levels and with the wealth of experience that has come from co-operating with Westminster College in offering a distance learning programme at the Masters Level, TAFTEE is in a unique position to train Christians who are "in the field" or in full time employment which cannot easily be given up to pursue full-time residential study. This MTh course is designed to meet the needs of such people.

THE AIMS OF THE COURSE

To develop the theological and Biblical knowledge, skills and competence necessary for involvement as Christian leaders in a specific ministerial or mission context.

To enable students, through in-depth study, to develop a critical awareness of the relationship between theology and ministry/ mission.

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To provide a cohesive programme of study, which yet offers appropriate diversity to allow individuals to meet their own training needs.

THE OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE

At the end of course you will be able to:

demonstrate the ability to handle Biblical and theological resources critically and relate them in appropriate ways to mission/ministry within your cultural context.

assess critically your ministry and suggest methodologies to effect appropriate change where necessary.

demonstrate an ability to communicate your studies with others involved in ministry or mission as well as with your congregation or organisation.

BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE

This MTh Course in Applied Theology arises out of a need for advanced training in mission and ministry in the Indian Church. While there are many advanced courses offered at the Masters Level in Academic Theological disciplines by various Seminaries and Colleges in India, few courses are available that focus specifically on the advanced training needs of Christian ministers who wish to improve their skills in the practice of ministry and mission. With the general advances in education, especially in the urban context, there has been a growing awareness in the Indian Church of a need to equip leaders at an advanced level in practical aspects of pastoral ministry and mission practice.

This Course seeks to address these particular needs. It is aimed at training Christians in and for leadership positions within their churches and denominations. It seeks to enable such people to be reflective and effective practitioners of the ministry to which they are called. It is hoped that this Masters Programme will be a major resource for you in your continuing education for Christian ministry.

The Course aims to enable you to pursue a programme of advanced theological study that is integrated as well as suited to your own particular ministerial training needs. In recognition of the considerable expertise and knowledge of those involved in the practice of ministry, the course enables you to reflect critically on your existing form of expertise by means of the multi-disciplinary expertise that the course has to offer.

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Taking the 'action-reflection-action' model of education, it is intended that you should remain within your own setting of ministry or mission. The various Courses provide critical tools for you to analyse and assess your ministry.

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MINISTERIAL FORMATION

As a course in Applied Theology, the focus of your studies is on your own development as a Christian minister. The course therefore seeks to enable you to develop and strengthen your competency in the following areas:

Professional CompetenciesAt the end of course you will be able to:

identify the distinctiveness of the ministry activity in which you are involved.

describe the social, organisational, political and religious context within which such ministry activity takes place.

analyse your ministry activity and its context in order to identify and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your own practice.

interact with different models of ministry activity as well as with your own peers and colleagues within your own church denomination.

effect appropriate change in your practice of mission or ministry.

Theological CompetenciesAt the end of this course you will be able to:

reflect theologically on the nature and practice of Christian Mission or Ministry in the light of Biblical Hermeneutics.

reflect theologically on the nature and practice of Christian Mission or Ministry in the context of the Church's historical and contemporary engagement with Indian society.

Theoretical CompetenciesAt the end of this course you will be able to:

demonstrate knowledge of relevant literature related to the nature and practice of Applied Theology.

give evidence of having acquired advanced skills in research to develop strategies for appropriate change in the practice of Christian Mission or Ministry.

draw from a range of knowledge, theories, methodologies and disciplines (such as sociology, anthropology, psychology and organisational studies) to reflect critically on the nature and practice of Applied Theology.

Personal CompetenciesAt the end of this course you will be able to:

demonstrate the skills of a reflective-practitioner, showing an ability to reflect critically and theologically on personal and corporate practice within the community of the Church.

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COURSE FEATURES

1. This course is a 3 year, distance learning course specialising in Applied Theology.

2. This is a postgraduate level course designed for those who have had formal theological training and at least five years relevant work experience in some form of ministry.

3. The course consists of a linked Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, and Master of Theology Course with specialisation in Applied Theology.

i. Successful completion of all 3 years will lead to the Award of Master of Theology in Applied Theology. The final year of the Course is by dissertation.

ii. Successful completion of the first 2 years of the course will allow you to qualify for a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Theology. Students who do not complete years 1 and 2 may nevertheless be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Theology on successful completion of certain designated requirements.

4. This course requires you to set aside time to participate in all the following activities:

i. distance learning by specific course books, reading, personal research and a structured workbook related to your ministry.

ii. monthly area tutorial/seminar work in a local group under the guidance of a suitably qualified tutor.

iii. residential schools - twice a year in Bangalore. (These schools normally take place in January/ August)

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COURSE SYNOPSIS

This TAFTEE Masters Course is based on a 180 point MTh which is equivalent to 48 weeks of full-time study. Since the course is offered as a Distance Learning Programme for those involved in full-time Christian work, the course is spread over three years and consists of two parts of study: a two-year taught Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma and a one-year Masters Level Dissertation. The Dissertation Level may be extended for a further period of one year.

Course Structure

Since the purpose of this course is to enable you to reflect critically on your own practice of ministry, the course is structured around two important features and these run throughout the course.

The first is the Research Methods strand, which aims to enable you to research into various aspects of your own ministerial situation. You are encouraged throughout the programme to ask questions about your ministry and this strand seeks to give you the tools so that you will be able to find answers to your questions. In the process of research, it is also possible that you will be surprised and be forced to rethink your original questions. This is an important part of the process of becoming a reflective practitioner.

Fundamental to this process of reflecting on your ministerial context is the Transformational Studies strand. The primary purpose of this strand is to enable you to integrate the various theoretical disciplines, which you study with your practice of ministry. This part of the course comprises a carefully designed workbook enabling you to create a personal database, which relates your studies to your faith and ministry. The data that you collect through the process of research into your ministry will form the raw material for every assignment in Part One of the course.

These two important strands of study should stimulate you to make a suitable choice of topic at the Dissertation Level and will provide you with the tools to research a subject of importance in your own ministry.

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The Structure of the Course

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Year 2

Year 3

Year 1

Dissertation60 Credits

Hermeneutics and Exegetical

Method

Theory and Practice of

Biblical Interpretation

15 Credits

Understanding Indian Society

Understanding Society and its implications for

Christian Mission and

Ministry15 Credits

Hermeneutics:Bible, Culture,

ContextTheological

Reflection on Culture and Context and

implications for understanding

the Church15 Credits

Understanding the Indian

Religious and Cultural Context

Understanding the faiths of others in the

Indian Context

15 Credits

Res

earc

h M

etho

dsLiturgy

Worship, Mission and Pastoral Care

15 Credits

15 Credits

Christian Ethics

Ethical Theory and Issues for

Pastoral Practice

15 Credits

Personal and Social

Psychology

Psychology for Pastoral Practice

15 Credits

Anthropology for Mission

Cultural Anthropology and Cultural

issues for Mission in

India15 Credits

Mission Strategies

Understanding Mission

Strategies and Practices and

their Implications

15 Credits

Evangelism and Church

Growth

Concepts, models,

techniques, and methods used in evangelism and Church

Growth

15 Credits

Women and Child

Development

Issues and Concerns of Women and Children and

its Implications to Mission

15 Credits

Theories, Principles and Approaches to DevelopmentUnderstanding Development Theories and Practices and

its Implications15 Credits

Development Project

Management –and Disaster ManagementProject Planning,

Designing, Implementation, Monitoring and

Evaluation15 Credits

Semester 2: Specialised Courses

Semester 1: Core CoursesCourses Studied by All Students Track a: Pastoral Practice Track b: Mission Practice Track c: Development Practice

Applied Organisationa

l Studies (a)

Organisational Theory for

Pastoral Practice

15 Credits

Applied Organisational Studies (b)

Organisational Theory for

Mission Practice

15 Credits

Applied Organisationa

l Studies (c)

Theories and Practices of

Organizational Development

15 Credits

Method of Study

Part One: Each Course is introduced at a Residential School. The main content of the Course is taught through a handbook. This work is consolidated in monthly area tutorials. In year one, there are two pieces of assessed work for each course. In year two, there is one piece of assessed work for each course.

Part Two (Masters Level): The third year involves the writing of a dissertation on Christian ministry. In exceptional circumstances, this may be extended for one further year.

Hours per Week

It is expected that the average time to be given to the course work will be in the region of twelve hours per week.

Course Process

This MTh in Applied Theology is designed to meet the training needs of those involved in three specific areas of Christian ministry and Mission:

i. Pastoral Practice: Those involved in Pastoral Ministry.

ii. Mission Practice: Those involved in Cross-cultural Mission.

iii. Development Practice: Those involved in Development Work.

The process allows students from these different Christian vocations to interact with each other while giving them the opportunity to focus on improving skills in the particular ministry to which they are called.

Part 1: Year 1 (60 Points)This Level focuses on foundational aspects of Christian Ministry and Mission. At present the courses offered are:

Semester 1: Core Courses

Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegetical Methods

Understanding Society

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Pastoral Practice Mission Practice Development Practice

Personal and Social Psychology

Mission Methods and Models

Theories, Principles and Approaches to Development

Christian Ethics Anthropology for Mission Project Management – Community Development and Disaster

Part 1: Year 2 (60 Points)This Level builds on the Courses studied in Year One. The Courses focus on understanding issues in Mission and Ministry in the light of the Church and contemporary Indian Culture. At present the courses offered are:

Semester 1: Core Courses

Hermeneutics: Bible, Culture and Context

Understanding the Indian Religious and Cultural Context


Pastoral Practice Mission Practice Development Practice

Applied Organisational Studies (a)

Applied Organisational Studies (b)

Applied Organisational Studies (c)

Liturgy Evangelism and Church Growth

Women and Child Development

Part 2: Year 3 (60 Points)Part two of the programme consists of the Masters Dissertation (60 Points).

The Dissertation will be an in-depth critical study of an aspect of Pastoral Ministry or Mission or Development practice in which you are involved. At this level, you will be expected to demonstrate an ability to conduct independent and critical research.

Temporary WithdrawalIf you are unable to keep within the normal time schedule of the course, you may apply for temporary withdrawal. Normally such withdrawal will be considered only in extenuating circumstances such as serious illness, unforeseen professional pressures or severe personal difficulties. Temporary Withdrawal will be for a period of one year.

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Diagram 2: M.Th. in Applied Theology: Course ProcessP

art

On

e: Y

ear

On

e

Sem

este

r 1

August August-JanuaryResidential School 1 Core SubjectsIntroduction to Year 1 Core Subjects Hermeneutics and Exegetical

MethodsIntroduction to Research Methods (Basic Study Skills)

Understanding Society

Sem

este

r 2

January January – AugustResidential School 2 Specialist SubjectsPresentation of Core Subject Assignments Pastoral PracticeIntroduction to Year 1 Specialist Subjects Mission PracticeResearch Methods (Basic Social Research) Development Practice

Par

t O

ne:

Yea

r T

wo

Sem

este

r 1

August August – JanuaryResidential School 3 Core SubjectsPresentation of Year 1 Specialist Subject Assignments

Hermeneutics: Bible, Culture, Context

Introduction to Year 2 Core Subjects Understanding the Indian Religious and Cultural Context

Research Methods (Further Social Research)

Sem

este

r 2

January January – AugustResidential School 4 Specialist SubjectsPresentation of Core Subject Assignments Pastoral PracticeIntroduction to Year 2 Specialist Subjects Mission PracticeResearch Methods (Advanced Social Research)


Par

t T

wo

: Y

ear

Th

ree

Sem

este

r 1

August August – JanuaryResidential School 5 Dissertation Presentation of Year 2 Specialist Subject Assignments

Dissertation related to specialisation

Presentation of Dissertation ProposalIntroduction to Dissertation Studies

Sem

. 2

January January – AugustResidential School 4 DissertationPresentation of Dissertation Progress (Literature and Methodology)

Dissertation related to specialisation

Final Submission – August

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COURSE TEAMS

Each TAFTEE Course is not the work of only one individual. TAFTEE works with various subject experts who are willing to give their time in training God's people for ministry. The Courses are discussed and revised so that you will get the best possible product.

The courses comprising this programme are delivered/co-coordinated by the following Faculty with the help of others:

Rev. Dr. G. David Samuel

Rev Dr Samuel Jayakumar

Rev. Dr. K.C. Abraham

Rev. Dr Brian Wintle

Rev Dr Ashish Chrispal

Rev. Dr. J.T.K. Daniel

Prof. J. Philip

Rev. Dr Abraham Stephen

Dr Mrs Beulah Jeyaseeli

Rev. Dr. Samuel T. Packiam

Prof. Victor D'Souza

Rev. Dr S.D. Ponraj

Dr. George Edward

Mrs. Augusta Paul

Dr. Mohan Isaac

Mr Shyam Winston

Mr. Ajit Kumar

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AREA TUTORIALS

An integral part of the MTh Course is the Area Tutorial Network. You are expected to attend an Area Tutorial at least once in every six weeks as part of the MTh Course. You will be assigned a suitably qualified Tutor and will be expected to attend tutorials along with the other students in your area. As a general guide, tutorials take place for half a day each month. Depending on the geographical location and schedules of students, this pattern can be adjusted. However, it should be remembered that regular meetings, where you can discuss present needs, are better than irregular meetings, in which you have forgotten what you have learnt.

After your assignments have been marked and the comments of the Course Tutor have been returned to you along with the assignment, your tutor will meet with you in order to discuss questions and queries about the assignment. The tutor will pay particular attention to helping you in areas of weakness as well as encouraging you to apply the lessons of the assignment to your ministry.

One of the main roles of area tutorials is to help you to apply what you have learnt to your situation of ministry. The effectiveness of this course depends on your ability to put your learning into practice. Although the local tutor is not directly involved in the marking of essays, he/she may be consulted about how well you are applying your studies. The nature of distance learning means that the local tutor is usually the first to become aware of any problems that you are experiencing in your own life which may be detrimental to studies. Most students will at some time find that the pressures of work, family, and other commitments come into conflict with their studies. When this happens it is important that you inform your tutor so that the necessary action can be taken in time.

RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS

The Academic Year starts in January with a 10-Day Residential School in Bangalore. If you are accepted onto this course, it is essential that you attend this Residential School.

Each subsequent semester will begin with a Residential School in Bangalore. In Part One of the Course, you will be expected to make presentations at the Residential Schools, which will be assessed along with your written work. It is therefore necessary that you attend every school.

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At the beginning of the Dissertation (Masters Level) of the course, you will be expected to attend a Dissertation orientation programme in Bangalore for 3 weeks.

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RECRUITMENT CRITERIA

Academic Qualifications:

i. Candidates who wish to enroll for the University of Wales validated MTh in Applied Theology specialising in Pastoral Practice or Mission Practice should normally have a formal theological training, (usually BD/BTS/ BTh/MDiv).

ii. Candidates who wish to enrol for the MA in Applied Theology specialising in Development Practice should have a recognised degree (normally in Social Science subjects)

iii. Candidates who wish to enroll on the Asia Theological Association (ATA) accredited MTh in Pastoral Theology should have recognised BD, or M.Div.

Candidates should have at least five years in relevant work experience in some form of mission or ministry:

i. For the specialisation in Pastoral Practice such work experience should normally be in the local church.

ii. For the specialisation in Mission Practice such work experience should normally be in cross-cultural mission.

iii. For the specialisation in Development Practice such work experience should normally be in an NGO or Development Organisation.

Candidates should satisfy TAFTEE that they have:

i. a genuine curiosity to think theologically.

ii. a concern to be effective professional ministers who are prepared to work at the intellectual and academic issues involved in the practice of ministry.

iii. a desire to develop a professional understanding of the application of theology to their own and the wider context in which ministry occurs and who are able to work on their own in small tutorial settings and in a more formal College setting.

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iv. an ability to interact with the course teachers, materials and other students in ways which will enhance their professional and personal development and understanding.

v. an ability at English enabling them to write assignments at the Masters Level.

Candidates should receive supportive references from their denomination and from their local church.

We aim to recruit, therefore, ministers who have a willingness and ability to take increasing responsibility for their work, to sustain their interest and to begin to deal critically with the questions and issues the course raises in relation to their own circumstances and ministry.

FEES

The cost of the MTh programme validated by the University of Wales is as follows:

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 TotalUniversity Fees Rs. 20,000/- Rs. 20,000/- Rs. 20,000/- Rs. 60,000/-TAFTEE Fees Rs. 30,000/- Rs. 30,000/- Rs. 30,000/- Rs. 90,000/-Total Rs. 50,000/- Rs. 50,000/- Rs. 50,000/- Rs. 150,000/-

Students registered with Asia Theological Association:Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Total

TAFTEE Fees Rs. 20,000/- Rs. 20,000/- Rs. 20,000/- Rs. 60,000/-

Students who take more than the minimum time allowed for the completion of the degree will be charged accordingly.

Scholarships Some partial scholarships are available towards the cost of fees. Some additional scholarships are available as mentoring scholarships for

those actively involved in mentoring TAFTEE groups at the Certificate and Degree level.

An application form for scholarship is available with the Dean of Postgraduate Studies, TAFTEE. Scholarships will be awarded on the basis of academic achievement, ministry potential and financial need.

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Note:Fees are subject to revision each year and are notified annually. In the final year there is a single additional cost of examining and binding your dissertation.

Payment of FeesFees must be paid at the beginning of each year. Details of how these should be paid will be given when students are accepted onto the programme.

It is an invariable rule of TAFTEE that the awards of Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma or Master of Theology are conditional on the payment of all outstanding debts.

All fees must be paid by DD. Fees cannot be received by cash or cheque.

What the Fees Cover

Distance Learning Course material, Transformational Studies work book, Tuition related to each Course and Marking of Assignments in Part One.

Area Tutor's tuition costs.

Accommodation and food and tuition costs at all Residential Schools.

Administrative costs relating to TAFTEE's administration of the course.

Individual supervision at the Dissertation Level.

Membership of TAFTEE's library and membership of the Joint Theological Libraries reading scheme in Bangalore.

Validation and Registration costs or Accreditation costs

What the Fees do not cover

Travel to and from Residential Schools and Area Tutorials.

Your own stationary and postage costs related to the course.

Purchase of extra textbooks related to the Course.

Membership of libraries other than TAFTEE library. In order to borrow books from libraries other than TAFTEE's library (including those in the Joint Theological Libraries scheme), you may be expected to pay a membership fee.

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PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATION

All applicants should complete the application form enclosed with this prospectus.

Applications from ordained ministers should be accompanied by endorsements from their local church and the appropriate officer of the denomination/church on the appropriate endorsement forms.

Applications from other candidates should be accompanied by endorsements from their local church and the appropriate officer of the organisation for whom they work on the appropriate endorsement forms.

Applications should be accompanied by the relevant degree certificates or attested copies of such certificates.

Application should be made to the Dean of Postgraduate Studies, TAFTEE at the address given on the application form.

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OUTLINE SYLLABUS

Core Courses:

Research Methods StrandThis Course will be divided into six parts and will run for the duration of the Masters programme. It will be taught at each of the Residential Schools and accompanied by a Research Methods handbook, each section being a pre-requisite for the other Courses to be introduced at the School. Each Section of the Course will build upon its predecessors as students deepen both their theoretical and practical applications of research methodologies and theological reflection. Learning appropriated through this Course will be evidenced by an increasingly sophisticated use of the tools in students' written and oral presentations.

Hermeneutics and Exegetical MethodThis course gives an overview of issues in Hermeneutics and Exegesis. Here the student is encouraged to interact with the theoretical issues and principles of interpretation. Students are given the opportunity to engage with various Biblical passages in relation to issues of importance in the contemporary Indian context. Starting with important issues of Hermeneutics in relation to the nature of Scripture and authority, students are encouraged to reflect upon the nature of meaning in Scripture and its relationship to the understanding of God. The Course engages with various tools of interpretation and offers students tools

of exegesis to assess the significance of a passage of Scripture for today.

Understanding SocietyThis Course is intended to provide students with opportunities for distanced critical reflection on their current assumptions and styles of work in ministry and mission, informed by sociological approaches. Students do not need to have previously studied sociology but it is expected that they will be used to thinking about contemporary issues in their social context. The Course therefore gives students opportunities to understand how sociology can illuminate the nature, purposes and practices of the Church and its mission. Opportunities are also given for students to apply their growing understanding of the place of religion in society, and of religion as a social institution.

Hermeneutics: Bible, Culture and ContextThe Course on Hermeneutics: Bible, Culture and Context will build on the previous Course on Hermeneutics and Exegetical Method. This Course will concentrate on the role of Christianity in the modern world. Here the students will develop further the issues involved in contextualisation and will concentrate on how to make the Biblical material relevant in their culture and context. This Course will focus on the relationship between Christ and Culture and important issues in Indian society, such as Caste, Communalism, Poverty, Gender and Ecology. This Course will also address the specific

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issues for Christian Mission in Indian society.

Understanding the Indian Religious and Cultural ContextThe materials focus on the nature of Indian society in terms of religious and cultural diversity. It explores the socio-political and the theological implications of pluralism for the practice of Christian mission and ministry. The Course expects the student to make an in-depth study of the beliefs and practices of people from another faith situated in or near his/her context of mission or ministry. Data for such a study will primarily be gained from the people themselves. The relationship of these beliefs and practices will also be studied with respect to at least one of the major Indian religions other than Christianity.

Pastoral Practice Courses:

Personal and Social PsychologyThe purpose of this Course is to introduce aspects of psychological theory that may have relevance to pastoral theology. This Course provides students with opportunities for distanced critical reflection on their current assumptions and styles of work in ministry and mission, informed by psychological approaches. Students do not need to have previously studied psychology. The Course looks at differences that exist in individual religious thinking and experience, seeking explanations from them in psychological theories.

Christian EthicsEthics deals with the problems raised by the moral conscience of human

beings which demand that in all situations of life which they face as individuals or peoples, they ought to choose good rather than evil and act accordingly. This Course attempts to help students understand the complexities of moral decision making in the Indian context in order to enhance their effectiveness in Christian ministry. Though Christians have a common faith, and may even have a common idea of the source of morality, they come from different religious, cultural and other backgrounds and cannot be said to have a common idea or approach to the content of morality even on some very crucial issues.

Applied Organisational StudiesGiven that the Church is a voluntary community, which believes in the God whose Son freely gave up his power in order to save humanity and who came not to be served but to serve, what view of authority can the minister/ priest in the Church take? This course considers issues of power and authority from the perspective of organisational theory. It looks at charismatic/ bureaucratic leadership styles in relation to the Church and asks how institutions go about defining their purposes. Theologians from various denominations examine the particular case of the Church in India in the light of recent Organisational theory as well as recent thinking.

LiturgyThe Westminster Catechism famously states that "Man's chief and highest end is to glorify God, and fully to enjoy him forever." The enjoyment and glorification of God can take countless

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forms, but chief among these is the worship of God. When believers come together to worship, they usually don't limit their activity to worship alone, for they find it necessary or helpful to engage in other activities too - such as reading and listening to God's word together, reflecting on that word in meditation or speech, offering to God prayers in various forms, joining together in celebrating the Lord's Supper, and other such activities. Liturgy needs to be studied deeply, for it is foundational to the life, ministry, and mission of the ekklesia .

Mission Practice Courses

Mission Methods and ModelsThis module provides the students with the knowledge of an over all perspectives of mission strategies. It facilitates the students to reflect on the question: what lessons does the Christian past teach us for our understanding and practice of tomorrow’s mission. Students will be enabled to identify and develop strategies for effective missionary work and church planting in their own rural and urban contexts.

Anthropology for MissionThis module will concentrate on providing the students with the knowledge in the advanced Anthropological issues relating to Christian mission. It will deal with concept, meaning, and components of human culture; the importance of cultural anthropology for Christian witness. Introduce the students to bearers to, facilitators, nature, and process of socio-cultural changes; missions and planed changes. The

students will develop a missiological understanding of the mosaic of Indian culture, customs and practices. It will provide a review of cultural systems: economic, political, and religious systems and their interrelationships. It will focus on analysis of religious systems: beliefs, practices, and functions; symbol, ritual, and myth; religious organisation and practitioners; conflict, change, and revitalisation in religion.

Evangelism and Church GrowthThis module provides students with an understanding of various concepts, models, techniques, and methods used in evangelism with an intention of planting churches. It helps the students to understand evangelism and church growth in a deeper level by reflecting on current theories and practices. It will enable the students to examine the relevance of evangelism and church growth in the modern and post-modern times. Also, students will be able discern the causes of church growth as well as what is church and what is not church growth. It provides the student with an understanding of factors that lead to growing churches, exploring such expansion dynamics as people movements, webs, redemptive analogies and procedures that can promote or hinder growth. Students will be introduced to competing theologies of evangelism and church growth. The module will provide opportunity to evaluate and improve their current practice of mission, evangelism and church growth.

Applied Organisational Studies (b)Given that church and Christian organizations are voluntary

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communities (the two structures) that believe in the God whose Son freely gave up his power in order to save humanity and who came not to be served but to serve, what view of authority can the minister/missionary /worker in the Christian organization take? This Course looks at charismatic/bureaucratic and other leadership styles, and asks how institutions go about defining their purposes. The particular case of the Christian organization in India is examined in the light of recent organisational theory, as well as recent thinking by the leaders and theologians from various denominations. This module deals with organizational issues such as mission and board relationship, financial policies, mission policies – promotions and support. Further it examines partnership, networking, capacity building, advocacy, member care, health care, retirement plans, education of missionary children, training of missionaries, native workers, Bible teaching and training at the grass root level, leadership, leadership training, local leadership, mission – board relationship, financial policies, raising support, promotional work, documentation, research, Social responsibility, development programs and other related matters.

Development Practice Courses

Theories, Principles and Approaches to DevelopmentThis course will explore the theories of development from sociological, political and economical perspective, principles and approaches delineated by

development theoreticians and used by various development practitioners for human development. A Christian understanding to human development will be studied. The principles that underline various development practices will be examined so also the approaches that guide the different development models in its context as in the top down approach of plans and policies, participatory approach, human rights based approach and so forth. The different programmes and policies of the Government of India in the social sector will be assessed critically viewing its progress and impact.

Project Management – Community Development and DisasterChurch has often been viewed as a charity organization. It is crucial to shift from the charity approach to a sustainable development of the community and to address human right issues. This course equips Christian development workers with the tools to appropriately understand the needs of the community and to plan for community based development programmes and Disaster response programmes; provide skills required for monitoring and evaluation of programmes, budgeting and writing proposals for raising funds; and to analyse government programmes effectiveness and work towards advocating policy changes.

Applied Organisational Studies (c)Given that the churches, mission agencies and development organisations have the understanding of Integral Mission, to serve the community believing in God whose Son freely gave up his power in order

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to save humanity and who came not to be served but to serve, it is also imperative to serve the humanity effectively. This Course looks at how institutions go about defining their purposes, leadership styles, formulation of systems and policies for better management, compliance to government rules and regulations and in systematic capacity building of staff and in network techniques for raising funds and in working towards policy decisions. The particular case of the agencies in India is examined in the light of recent organisational theory, as well as recent thinking by theologians.

Women and Child DevelopmentThe study will focus on the status of women and children in the society with particular reference to the Indian society analyzing the issues of dowry, discrimination, violence and abuse against women and deprivation of women rights, early marriage, sex trafficking, child labour, child abuse,

orphans, children infected and affected with HIV, street children and malnourishment etc. The themes covered include the provisions in the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) 1979, UN convention on the Rights of the Children, social legislations relating to women and children such as domestic violence, dowry act, Child labour etc, to focus on welfare schemes undertaken by the Government of India, agencies associated with the department of women and child development and initiatives by NGOs and CBOs to empower women and to protect children. The study will enable the students to reflect biblically on women and children and its implications in mission. The students will relate with the state initiated programmes and those by NGOs and CBOs and derive their own understanding and responses to address to the issue

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FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

Over the next three years, we plan to offer additional courses within the specialisation tracks of the MTh Course in Applied Theology. We also plan to offer a track in Organisational Leadership for those who seek to improve their management and executive skills for leadership in various types of Christian organisation.

OTHER TAFTEE PROGRAMMES

In addition to applying for this MTh programme, you might like to think of making use of other TAFTEE programmes to equip the Christians in your Church. TAFTEE can offer a well-structured training programme to suit the needs of your congregation. Our Foundational Programme is offered in 9 different Indian Languages.

TAFTEE offers two Degree Programmes: A Bachelor of Theological Studies (BTS) and a Master of Divinity (MDiv). The BTS and MDiv are offered in English. The BTS is also offered in Tamil and is being translated into Hindi. If you have a degree in Theology you could also become an accredited TAFTEE tutor for the Degree Level Programme.

A. Foundational Programme

1. Following Jesus: A Course in Discipleship and Ministry based on the Life of Jesus Christ

This course forms the basis of TAFTEE’s present ministry and is by far the most significant programme that TAFTEE offers in terms of leadership and discipleship training. By a systematic study of the Gospel of Matthew, a student is introduced to the major teachings of Christian faith and is also taught such practical skills as evangelism, Bible study and leading prayer meetings.

This programme is designed to help Christians grow in faith and to understand what it means to be a disciple of Jesus in a day-to-day life. It will also help them to acquire skills in personal and group Bible Study enabling them to grow in their devotional life and Christian character. Through this course one not only learns biblical truths but also understands what it means to be a servant of Jesus. This course is available in English, Hindi, Marathi, Oriya, Gujarathi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam.

2. Other Certificate Level Courses

TAFTEE also offers the following Certificate Level courses:

1. ‘Working together for Health’: A 10 Week Community Health Course

2. ‘Discover Christian Family Life Together’: A Course on the Biblical basis of Christian family and its practical application

3. ‘See Through The Scriptures’: A survey Course of the message of the whole Bible

B. Degree Programmes (BTS and MDiv)

1. Bachelor of Theological Studies

Based on a full-time Bachelor of Theology (BTh) degree course, the programme is flexible and allows student groups the maximum possible choice. It also offers courses at different levels to encourage learning progression. The programme is structured in 3 stages and students can gain TAFTEE’s Certificate in Theological Studies (CTS) and Diploma in Theological Studies (DTS) as part of this programme. Students are required to complete a certain number of Credits from the Foundational Courses, while the rest can be chosen from the Optional Subjects. Students are also required to be involved in Supervised Ministry and to reflect on their own personal growth through the programme. There are regular Residential Schools that allow students to be involved in personal research. Normally each course module comprises 12 weeks of study, including introductory meeting and an examination at the end. For each module, a student is expected to attend a tutorial each week. For each module, a student is also required to complete between 7 and 12 hours of personal study per week.

2. MDiv ProgrammeFrom July 2004, TAFTEE has introduced an MDiv programme to offer an integrated theological degree. This programme, designed for those who are actively involved in Christian ministry and mission, combines the strengths of TAFTEE’s BTS programme with the strengths of the MTh programme.

The Association for Theological Education by Extension

Master of Arts (MA)/Master of Theology (MTh) in

Applied Theologywith Specialisations in



Application form for the course commencing August 2009

Tick the specialisation for which you wish to apply:

Pastoral Practice:

Mission Practice:


Please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS

Title (Delete as Appropriate) Rev/Dr./Mr./Mrs./ Other ……………………………

Full Name (as given on official documents)

.................................................................................................................

Name you are known by (if different from above)

.................................................................................................................

Mother Tongue ..................................... Date of Birth …..................

Denomination ....................................... Marital Status ....................

Address for Correspondence

………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………

Pincode (Compulsory): ................................

Residential Address (if different from above)

………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………

Pincode ................................

Telephone No (with the city code) :.…………………………..............................

E-Mail Address ................................ Fax No ...............................................

MA/MTh in Applied Theology – Application 2009 Entry

Details of Education and Training, and Formal Qualifications

Dates Medium of Study

Details (University/College, Qualification & Subject)

Country of Origin: ……………… Ethnic Background: ………………

Languages Known:

Speak: …………………………………………………………………………

Write: …………………………………………………………………………

Details of Present Post and Current Ministry with details of key Responsibilities in Church/Diocese/Organisation

Dates Details



Details of other Relevant Work Experience with Key Responsibilities

Dates Details

In the space below, state your reasons for applying for this course.

How did you hear about this course?


Declaration:

I have read the Prospectus and understand the requirements of the programme in terms of time and finance. All the information that is given on this application form is correct and I have completed the attached assignment without taking help from others.

If accepted onto this course, I agree to pay my fees promptly either at the beginning of each year, or in two installments each year at the beginning of each semester.

SIGNATURE ........................................................... Date ......................

Please enclose with this form:

Relevant degree certificates, or attested copies of such certificates with marks transcripts.

Proof of age (School Leaving Certificate or anything relevant)

A 500 word assignment (See below)

Two Academic References, two Professional References (normally a recognised authority in your church) and one Personal Reference.

An endorsement form completed and signed by an office bearer in your local congregation.

Either an endorsement form completed and signed by a senior office bearer in your denomination (e.g., your bishop).Or, an endorsement form completed and signed by your employer.

This completed application form should be returned before 30th July 2009 to the address below. If you require a scholarship form please attach your request for the same.

The Director,TAFTEE

36 Bornmann Enclave,Kothanur, Bangalore – 560077 INDIA

500 Word Assignment

On a separate piece of A4 paper, describe a significant event that has taken place in your ministry within the last year. State why you considered it significant and how your reaction to the situation reflects your theology.


DIOCESAN/EMPLOYERS ENDORSEMENT

for candidates applying to study aMaster of Arts/Master of Theology in Applied Theology

offered by The Association for Theological Education by Extension

1. Endorsement

Having checked the Recruitment Criteria, the .........................……..... Church

endorses the application of.................................................................................

for this course, judging the course to be appropriate for the candidate and the candidate for the course.

2. Finance

Tick (i) or (ii):-

(i) This student will be responsible for all fees.

(ii) The church/organisation will sponsor this student financially to the extent of Rs...………..…….p.a., or ..….......% of course fees.

Tick (a) or (b)

This amount will be paid (a) directly to TAFTEE (b) to the student

3. Other Comments

Please add any special recommendations of this student or supportive remarks which you may wish to make. Continue overleaf if necessary.

Name of person signing......................................................................................

Position held......................................................................................................

Address ……………….……………………….………………….………….

…………………………..................................................................................................................

............................................................................

Email: ………………………………………………… Ph. No. …………………(with city code)

Signature ........................................................ Date ....................

Please return this endorsement to the candidate or forward it to:The Director,

TAFTEE36 Bornmann Enclave,

Kothanur, Bangalore – 560077 INDIA


ENDORSEMENT FROM THE LOCAL CONGREGATION

for candidates applying to study aMaster of Arts/ Master of Theology in Applied Theology

offered by The Association for Theological Education by Extension

1. Endorsement

I have seen the application form from ...............................................…..to undertake the above Course. The application has been discussed by the relevant officers in the applicant’s local Church. The personal and vocational implications have been seriously considered. I judge the Course to be appropriate for the applicant and the applicant for the Course.

2. Commitment

The relevant officers in the applicant’s local Church have discussed the implications of this endorsement and agree to support the applicant in his/her studies, allowing the necessary time and leave for the applicant to complete the Course.

3. Other Comments

Please add any special recommendations of this student or supportive remarks which you may wish to make. Continue overleaf if necessary.

Name of person signing.....................................................................................

Position held.......................................................................................................

Address ………………………………………………….………………….………….

…………………………..................................................................................................................

............................................................................

Email: ……………………………………….. Ph.No.: ………………………(with city code)

Signature ........................................................ Date ....................

Please return this endorsement to the candidate or forward it to:The Director,




R E F E R E N C E SA C A D E M I C R E F E R E N C E S

Please Provide Contact Details for Two Referees(You should select those who are able to comment on your ability to undertake postgraduate study)

1. Name and Address

…………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………

Pincode ................................

Telephone No (with city code): …………................................

E-Mail Address ................................ Fax No ..........................

2. Name and Address

…………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………

Pincode ................................

Telephone No (with city code): ……………………................................

E-Mail Address ................................ Fax No ..........................

P E R S O N A L R E F E R E N C E SPlease Provide Contact Details for One Referee

(You should select someone who is able to comment on your Personal qualities)

Name and Address

......................................................................................................

......................................................................................................

......................................................................................................

Pincode ................................

Telephone No (with city code): …………………….................................

E-Mail Address ............................ Fax No .......................................





PROSPECTUS

MTh Prospectus 2009

Documents

mth course

wales university

masters course

course fees

federal university of

university of wales

christian ministry

ministry training movement