The Reforming Pope: Francis for Protestants and Others

We will examine the personality, history and ecclesiastical career of Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis) and will explore two key primary texts of his reforming pontificate. Course will be taught in person at VST, and via Zoom for distance students (degree students must connect synchronously if studying via Zoom)  

The Mestizo Augustine on Health: Confessions, Therapy & Community

This course will present Augustine of Hippo’s (354-430) perspective on heart therapy and health as prescribed by his Confessions. Course will be taught in person at VST, and via Zoom for distance students (degree students must connect synchronously if studying via Zoom)  

Master of Theological Studies

We are excited to announce that the faculty has just approved a new Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree, which will replace our current MA(TS) degree program. The new MTS program builds on our historic strengths, while offering more focus and more flexibility. We’re taking this degree to the next level so that we can equip …
View course details “Master of Theological Studies”

Reading Kierkegaard Today: His Vision, Message, and Challenge

Kierkegaard’s writings, while influential, are not sufficiently appreciated by Christians. While many think that modern life has “outgrown” religion due to a sense of intellectual superiority, Kierkegaard challenges this assumption. Together, we’ll explore his assertion that modern secularism is actually rooted in a weak understanding of the imagination and emotions. In addition, we’ll learn from …
View course details “Reading Kierkegaard Today: His Vision, Message, and Challenge”

Martin Luther: The First Protestant Mystic?

Explore the relationship between Protestantism, evangelicalism, and mysticism through the lens of Martin Luther’s life and faith. Wrestle with the overlap between Protestant faith and medieval mystical writings by looking at Luther’s own well-documented interaction with Christianity’s mystical tradition. Discover how contemporary Protestants might similarly turn to the mystical tradition for wisdom and inspiration. Evaluate …
View course details “Martin Luther: The First Protestant Mystic?”

Come Holy Spirit: The Paraclete in Creation, Church, and Believer

The ministry of the Holy Spirit is foundational to the life and mission of the church and the experience of each Christian believer. Deepen your understanding of this while navigating questions and complexities about the Spirit’s work in a manner that reflects biblical witness and the church’s creedal heritage. Walk away with heightened appreciation for …
View course details “Come Holy Spirit: The Paraclete in Creation, Church, and Believer”

Online Master of Theological Studies Degree at Franciscan School of Theology

Explore the Connection Between Faith and Service, No Matter Where You Are The online Master of Theological Studies – Franciscan Theology (MTS) is a two-year academic program offered by the Franciscan School of Theology in partnership with the University of San Diego. Designed for working professionals and recent undergraduates alike, this unique online program is …
View course details “Online Master of Theological Studies Degree at Franciscan School of Theology”

Black Gospel Music–Not for credit

This course studies the black gospel tradition, focusing on the genre’s distinctive combination of sound and belief. Music, movement, and conviction, the three expressions gospel holds together, will be explored through three interpretive lenses: exemplary performers, pivotal periods, and formal processes. This week’s work will bring material and approaches from the fields of musicology, music …
View course details “Black Gospel Music–Not for credit”