Issues in United Church History

This course explores the context of the church union movement; the founding traditions (Methodism, Presbyterianism, Congregationalism, and the local union churches); the search for denominational "identity"; the challenges of the post-World War II era; and transitions in its theology, social teaching, congregational life, and organizational culture.  Class sessions are organized around reading assignments drawn mainly from primary sources, with occasional lectures to provide background.  Evaluation is based on informed participation, short mid-term papers, and a research paper. Prerequisite: History of Christianity I or permission of the instructor.