Pastoral Ministry Formation presenting classes on Islam, Christology

The Pastoral Ministry Formation Program is once again opening its virtual classroom doors with two new classes.

The goal of this accredited program, which is open to any adult with a desire to learn more about their faith, is to help people become stronger witnesses and, if they choose, pastoral ministers for the Diocese of Dodge City. Classes are taught simultaneously at several sites throughout the diocese via the interactive television (ITV) system, and can be taken for personal enrichment or college credit.

For more information on the upcoming classes -- “Christology” and “Islam” -- call Coleen Stein, (620) 227-1538 or email cstein@dcdiocese.org.

CHRISTOLOGY (three credit hours)

Taught by Father Henry Hildebrandt, “THEO 4003 Christology” aims to answer Jesus’ question, “Who do you say that I am?” The course will explore the unique historical individual -- Jesus of Nazareth -- who acted in particular ways and ended his earthly human existence by crucifixion under Pontius Pilate. Participants will also explore the premise that this historical individual is identical with the risen Christ, the Messiah and divine Savior sent by the Father and filled with the Holy Spirit to save the world.

The class will meet Saturday mornings from 8:30 a.m. to Noon, on Feb. 2, 9, 16, and 23, March 1 and 8, and April 5, 12, and 19. The class costs $135 if taken for credit, and $67.50 if taken for personal enrichment. Price does not include books.

Father Henry Hildebrandt is pastor of Sacred Heart, Ness City and St. Aloysius, Ransom. His previous courses taught were: Old Testament Literature; Church in History; Christology; Introduction to Doctrine; Book of Revelation; Revelation in Context; Philosophical Issues in Theology.

ISLAM (one credit hour)

Taught by Msgr. Brian Moore, “THEO 4881 Islam” will focus on the religion of Islam and its outlook on the world. Participants will look first at Muhammad the prophet and the Quran. Next they will turn to the development of Islam after the death of Muhammad and the major groups of its adherents. The third concern will be the religious observances of Islam and its spirituality. Finally, participants will turn to the current situation of Islam and its meaning for Christians.

The class will meet Sundays from 2-5:30 p.m., March 30, and April 6, 13, and 20. The cost is $45 if taken for credit, and $22.50 if taken for personal enrichment. This price does not include books.

Msgr. Brian Moore is the Director of Formation, Diocesan Liturgist, and Parochial Vicar at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. He previously taught: New Testament; Sacramental Theology; Christology; Christian Morality and Social Issues; World Religions; Church and Homosexuality; Judas! Another Gospel?; and Colossians and Baptism.

The PMFP program is presented in partnership with Newman University.