STMA 514 - Leading Prayer and Worship

3 credit hours

This course prepares leaders with hands-on, experiential practice of the skills required to lead groups of people graciously and effectively in public prayer. It will consider diverse forms of worship including: informal blessings at meals, opening meetings, and ecclesial celebrations of Word and Sacrament. Course feedback will assess the use of the human voice, eyes and face, gestures, and posture. Students will practice handling the elemental substances like fire, water, oil, bread and wine, books, plates and cups, and other sacred objects. The course will include reflection on the spirituality of prayer leadership. Prerequisite: STMM 505 or STMM 510.