Alumni and Friends of Principia
Consider each hour of the day. Which classes most appeal to you? You can take a class every hour if you wish, but most people prefer to leave an hour or two open.
Classes marked as a two-week course can be taken for only one week unless noted otherwise. If you're attending both weeks of Summer Session, however, we highly recommend that you complete the full two-week course in order to get the best educational value. In a few cases, classes must be started in Week One; these are clearly marked.
During Week Two, a special experiential program is being offered. The program will explore the history of St. Louis through its architecture. Click here to read the description of this special program.
After you've made your selections, click on Registration to fill out your application. After the application is completed and the deposit received, a confirmation of your selections will be e-mailed to you.
Steve Greene, Upper School golf coach
Learn or review the fundamentals of the game—
grip, balance, posture, rhythm, and clubhead feel— in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Bring 5, 7, and 9-irons and a 3-wood if you have them. Some individual clubs can be supplied for the class. Bring a full set of clubs if you would like to take advantage of afternoon opportunities for play at a nearby course.
Two-week course
Mary Ann Sprague, MBA, College assistant athletic director and women's volleyball coach
The world of "fitness and diet" marches blatantly in front of us, presenting limitations based on a purely material view of man. This class will work instead from the standpoint of wholeness and perfection. Simple fitness workouts will help you gain a sense of dominion and balance. In addition, Simply Fit will have a metaphysical foundation for each class, making it an active time of prayer rather than "travel of limb more than mind" (Mary Baker Eddy, Miscellaneous Writings, p. 230).
Workouts will teach students how to utilize the space at and around their home to feel "simply fit." Each workout will offer a beginning level and a more challenging option. Class members can sign up to receive a new Simply Fit workout each month throughout the year.
Two-week course
Casey Reynolds, USPTA, College men's tennis coach
Shannon Carney, College women's tennis coach
Learn the game of tennis (or make your game stronger). This class meets players at their own level and advances them from there. Depending on your level, these subjects may be covered:
• All tennis grips and strokes
• Shot selection and placement
• Strategy for singles and doubles
• Proper footwork, movement, and balance
• Tennis etiquette
• How to think metaphysically about tennis
The course is taught through very short lectures, demonstration, instruction, drills, and some match play. Bring a racquet and tennis shoes (no black soles).
Two-week course - The first week of this course is currently full with a waitlist.
The entire campus pauses to hear an uplifting metaphysical message from an experienced Christian Scientist. Enjoy this inspiring opportunity each weekday morning at 8:00 a.m. in the Principia College Chapel.
Michael W. Hamilton, MDiv, ThM, assistant professor of religion
Learn the biblical foundations of personal and public morality. See how Christians sought to live the teachings of Christ Jesus in their private lives and in the public sphere. We'll explore the history of Christian ethics as well as contemporary ethical issues. Learn how a thoughtful approach to morality can help you engage with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives, building bridges to common ground.
Two-week course
Judith Felch, MFA, professor emerita of fine arts
Finding unique and articulate color answers in one's artwork can be a challenge. Each of the ten color projects in this course will focus attention on solving a common color challenge using color theory and refreshing color choices. You will choose the medium for your project: colored paper (supplied by the studio) with watercolor pencils, or colored pencils. All students interested in experimenting with color are welcome.
Two-week course
Howard Bay, MA, social studies teacher
Get to know the man once the most famous in America. His boyish face peered out from the covers of countless magazines. The world waited, glued to the radio, as he flew for 33 hours low over the Atlantic to Paris. But who was "Slim" Lindbergh, the man? Learn about his family, his remarkable adventures, and the story of his life outside the spotlights and headlines, and gain a glimpse of what gave him his extraordinary courage. To bring the nation's first American idol to life, an optional field trip to the Lindbergh wing of the Missouri History Museum will be offered.
Two-week course
Clark Beim-Esche, MA, retired English and integrated arts teacher
Humorist? Cynic? Writer? Racist? Many such labels have been attached to our "great American voice," Mark Twain. Yet the truth behind his literary style, his outlook on life, and even his moral vision has often eluded both his harshest critics and his most enthusiastic supporters. This class looks carefully at Twain's single greatest inspiration, the Mississippi River, as a key to intriguing insights into his life and work. We will be referencing his famous—and most popular—Mississippi works (The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and Puddn'head Wilson) with a specific emphasis on his often neglected masterpiece Life on the Mississippi in order to attain a more meaningful understanding of the works of this essential American author. And what better locale in which to do so than atop the beautiful bluffs overlooking the object of our study: the mighty Mississippi itself?
Two-week course - This course is currently full with a waitlist.
George Cooke, MFA, professor of mass communication
Would you like to move beyond merely taking pictures that record events to making photo- graphs that express what you see and feel? If so, bring your digital camera, and we’ll explore that question together. Please come with a blank flashcard so you have ample capacity to practice making photographs that “capture more.” Students should come with a basic understanding of the operation of their cameras.
Two-week course
John W. Williams, JD, associate professor of political science
Is "media ethics" an oxymoron? Readers and viewers have strong—but sometimes simplistic—opinions about the media. The First Amendment protects free speech and a free press, but shouldn't there be some self-restraint? Through actual case studies and lively discussions, we'll explore the issues and pressures confronting the media as the news media strives to inform us and the entertainment industry attempts to entertain us (and help advertisers sell us goods and services). Please be forewarned, some of the case studies may be graphic or present challenging issues. (Students may take the first week only but may not begin with Week Two.)
Two-week course
Jonathan Hosmer, MALD, Principia Web director,
Principia Marketing Department
Google is far more than a fast, comprehensive search engine. It's filled with useful applica- tions that can benefit anyone. Become familiar with Gmail and Google Voice. Learn about Google Docs. There are tools that allow you to compose, collaborate, and publish on the Internet what you write in Google Docs. You'll learn to share pictures, build your own website, and read books online through free tools from Google. Bring your questions and imagination.
One-week course, offered each week
John Near, DMA, William Martin and Mina Merrill Prindle Professor of Fine Arts, College organist
Opera is widely acknowledged as the greatest of all dramatic art forms. Why? We will endeavor to find an answer by sampling scenes from some of the most thrilling operatic masterpieces by some of the world's most celebrated composers. With a proper founda- tion, you can readily understand and enjoy opera. Whether you're a newcomer or a connoisseur, you'll gain insights as you experience the magic of opera.
Two-week course
Kat Collins, MA, visiting instructor
The Bible as we have it today came through a process of selection, with many ancient Jewish and Christian writings not included in our canon. There is the Wisdom of Sirach,
Bel and the Dragon, the battle between the Sons of Light and the Sons of Darkness, the legend of a woman apostle named Thekla, stories of the Virgin Mary's parents and Jesus' childhood, and gospels attributed to Mary Magdalene, Bartholomew, and Thomas, to name just a few. The discoveries of the Dead Sea Scrolls in Qumran and the Nag Hammadi library in Egypt tell us much about the diversity of Hellenistic Judaism and nascent Christianity. Come join us as we examine the apocryphal books, texts, and gospels known as deuterocanonical and pseudepigrapha writings. This course includes some class discussion.
Two-week course
Tom Fuller, DSc, professor of computer science and mathematics
Concord—an expansive study source for Christian Scientists—is now available in a new Web-based version. Its operation has changed, moving some familiar functions to different areas. Understand the changes and additions as well as what remains the same. Learn how to transfer notebooks from earlier versions of Concord. Whether you are new to Concord or upgrading from an older version, you will be able to practice exercises and have time to experiment on your own or with support from the teacher.
One-week course, offered each week
Mary Jane Chaignot, MA, visiting instructor
In this interactive class, we will study this sermon closely, paying special attention to the beatitudes, commands, and maxims for living. Many suggest its message needs to be toned down a bit; others write it off as simply being impossible to do. Are those who mourn really blessed? Is it possible to be more "righteous" than the Pharisees? Does calling someone a name send us to the fires of hell? Do we ever turn away from someone who asks to borrow from us? Do we "do good" to those who hate us? Does God love the unrighteous as much as the righteous? Does God forgive us based on our forgiveness of others? Should we never worry about tomorrow? Do we "receive" every time we "ask"? These are just a few of the topics we will wrestle with. If this sermon contains the truths that are critical for developing ourselves and shaping our lives, it must also be able to teach us about the nature of God and His relation to us and about how can we make these truths practical for ourselves and others.
One-week course, offered each week
David Robertson, MS, physics instructor
This course addresses the most fundamental topics in astronomy. You will gain an under- standing of the ancient Greek conceptions of the heavens, the Copernican revolution, the constellations, the phases of the Moon, and the movement of the stars and planets. We will explore the formation of our solar system and gain a basic understanding of the Sun, planets, comets, and asteroids. You will learn about special celestial objects such as galaxies, black holes, and neutron stars. The course will then explore the evolution of the universe as a whole, the Big Bang, dark matter and dark energy, and the ultimate fate of the cosmos. We will conclude with a discussion of the prospects for life beyond Earth. Classes will involve a combination of short interactive lectures, demonstrations, photos and animations, and discussion. Observing sessions at the Principia telescope will be offered most nights of the week, weather permitting. (Students may take the first week only but may not begin with Week Two.)
Two-week course - This course is currently full with a waitlist.
Marie Jureit-Beamish, DMA, Charles Stewart Harding Mott Distinguished Professor (Music)
For two hundred years, the great Romantic virtuoso pianist Franz Liszt has fascinated audiences and other musicians with tales of his unequalled bravura and transforming prowess at the keyboard. To this day, he deservedly stands as the reigning virtuoso of all time. Characterized as flambouyant, charismatic, charming, and passionate, Liszt stunned audiences with his electrifying performances in nineteenth century Europe. Also a genius composer spanning from the stunning Mephisto Waltz no. 1 to the sublime heights of his epic Sonata, Liszt stands today as one of the great innovators of Romanticism in music. This class brings to life his extraordinary music through live performances in class as well as recordings by some of the great virtuoso pianists of our time. Happy 200th, Franz!
Two-week course
Keith Preston, MAT, social studies teacher
Newspapers can be a gold mine for the history enthusiast—and not just the headlines, but the smaller print "below the fold." The stories that appear with famous news events provide a type of historical "snapshot," telling us a lot about the social structure, values, and culture of that time. This course will look past the headlines of papers from significant dates to find a fuller picture of everyday American life in different eras. We'll also compare several papers on the same date to get a broad view of the concerns and celebrations of the day.
Two-week course
Tom Davidson, MBA, assistant professor of economics
We all look forward to the end of this recession, the worst since the Great Depression of the 1930s. Learn how this downturn is different from the recessions of 1974 and 1982, and understand why it's taking so long for the economy to recover. This course will consider the causes of all three of these recessions and the government policies used to address them. You will learn which policies worked, which didn't, and why. Along the way you will grow in your understanding of how our economy works and what tools the federal government has at its disposal to try to manage it.
Two-week course
Lee Barron, JD, and Blair Lindsay, JD, attorneys at law
Learn to navigate your way through difficult and potentially divisive issues. This class will take on a number of important American legal cases. By speaking and listening with courtesy, grace, and respect, we can elevate the discussion of controversial legal issues and find common ground. Excerpts from Supreme Court case law such as Lochner v. New York (1905), Kelo v. City of New London (2005), West Virginia Board of Education v. Barnette (1943), and Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010) will be launching points for our discussions. Blair Lindsay and Lee Barron are experienced trial attorneys and good friends. When they find themselves on opposite sides of a political or legal debate, they strive to speak and listen with courtesy, respect, and intellectual rigor. Through their advice and example, students will learn and practice positive strategies for dealing with controversy.
Two-week course
David Coughtry, MFA, associate professor of studio art
This class will begin with a lecture on and demonstration of the basic principles of portraiture, accompanied by drawing exercises in mapping proportion and anatomical features. Most of your time in class will be regular studio sessions centered on drawing the model from life. Students will be shepherded with demonstrations and then one-on-one help and advice in fulfilling individual needs. Several class-wide critiques and discussions at the finish of assignments will provide time for sharing ideas, problems, solutions, and successes to be considered and utilized in a following assignment. (Students may take the first week only but may not begin with Week Two.)
Double hour, two-week course
Leah McFall, MSEd, professional artist
Experience the joy of immersion in watercolor painting, while enjoying the beauty of panoram- ic views of the Mississippi River valley. Whether you're starting fresh or have lots of experience, being a part of this creative community will be enriching. The workshop format will allow you to pursue your own particular interests, while picking up new techniques and ideas from the instructor and your fellow artists. In addition to transparent watercolors, you will have the opportunity to experiment with opaque gouache and pen line as you interpret our local scenes or distant places from photographs. Teacher demos, handouts, and other visuals will enhance the learning of composition, color theory, and specific painting methods.
Double hour, two-week course
Michael W. Hamilton, MDiv, ThM, assistant professor of religion
Three monotheistic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—have defined much of world history. Learn how these religions began and how their beginnings are related. How similar are their beliefs, their scriptures, their practices? In which ways do they differ? You will gain ideas about their futures and whether there is hope for them to coexist.
Two-week course
Robert Rockabrand, DMA, professor emeritus of music
Theater is the story of us all, and the power of theater has moved the world for centuries. American musical theater adds song and dance to deliver in spectacular ways wonderful stories about our lives as Americans. If it is true that "there's no business like show business," then there must be a little bit of "show people" in all of us. Americans invented the Broadway musical, so this class will explore the American character through the most popular entertainment of the past 100 years in shows that demonstrate and display the hopes, dreams, goals, and achievements of the American people—shows like Oklahoma!, The Music Man, Into the Woods, Funny Girl, Hello, Dolly!, On the Town, Rent, Hairspray, Show Boat, 1776, and on and on!
Two-week course
Joseph Ritter, PhD, associate dean of academics, professor of chemistry
What is a "universal solvent," and how does it apply to Love? How does a chemical extraction occur—and how does this relate to the desire to "extract error from mortal mind"? Mary Baker Eddy used many metaphors from chemistry, physics, astronomy, and mathematics to illustrate and explain concepts in Christian Science. This is a unique opportunity to have a chemist demonstrate many of these metaphors to increase your insight into Mrs. Eddy's writings. Bring a copy of the Bible and the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, to help you explore these ideas.
Two-week course
Richard C. Fitzer and Richard A. Fitzer, financial planners
We will discuss strategies for investing in the post-financial-crisis world of today. Some of the items we will cover include ways to generate retirement income without relying on stock appreciation, how to reduce volatility in your portfolio while still outpacing inflation, the difference between good and bad risk, which assets truly provide diversification, and which ones just provide duplication. We'll also devote plenty of time to questions and answers.
One-week course, offered each week
Jeff Steele, PhD, associate professor of interdisciplinary studies
Daniel Boone is a legendary figure in the development of the United States. Inaccurate descriptions of him abound, exaggerated through poetry, paintings, and even television. Yet Boone was indeed a frontiersman, soldier, legislator, hunter, land speculator, surveyor, and blacksmith. He is a colorful and complex character who spent most of his settled life just outside of what is now Defiance, Missouri. Your instructor, an eighth-generation direct descendant of Daniel and Rebecca Boone, explores through lecture and discussion the background of this fascinating man and his era.
Two-week course
John W. Williams, JD, associate professor of political science
The exotic Silk Road is as relevant today as it was 1,500 years ago. Travel the Silk Road from Istanbul to Xi'an in sights, sounds, and stories. Our ten-day "trek" across the lands of Genghis Khan and Tamerlane will explore geography, history, religion, culture, and politics. The ancient cities of Xi'an, Kashgar, Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand compete with modern cities of Tashkent and Almaty. Learn about this 'thoroughfare” in Central Asia, which is the epicenter of international geopolitics, Islamic fundamentalism, the struggle for democracy, and oil.
Two-week course
Jonathan Hosmer, MALD, Web director, Principia Marketing Department
With more than 500 million people using Facebook today, it's become ubiquitous in media and advertising. You will learn why so many people use Facebook and whether it's a fit for your life. Most students will build or improve their Facebook profile in class. We will talk through the many levels of security options and how to find people you'd like to connect with. Also, you will learn that individuals aren't the only ones on Facebook. The Mother Church, The Christian Science Monitor, Principia, and many other institutions have a presence on Facebook. Learn how this type of social networking benefits organizations and businesses.
One-week course, offered each week
Ellen Sprague, MA, writing instructor
We all have stories, and we can all write—even if we don't know it. Bring your stories to life while writing in an atmosphere that is both supportive and adventurous. Learn about the craft of writing creative nonfiction essays, particularly the subgenres of memoir and personal essay. You will be invited to write your own stories, revise them, and share them. In-class exercises will help you shape your stories into brief essays that may range from moving to entertaining, or be both at the same time. You will learn to experiment with revision strategies to allow you to improve your work both in class and back at home. In-class and optional homework readings will include short essays by classic and contem- porary essayists, including E.B. White, John McPhee, M.F.K. Fisher, and Annie Dillard. For examples of the type of essays you will be writing, look at essays published in the Home Forum section of The Christian Science Monitor or in other newspaper Travel and Lifestyle sections. Brief lectures will be included on the genre of creative nonfiction as well as on writing as a process, but the majority of class time will be for you to work on your writing with coaching and feedback from the instructor.
Two-week course
Judith Felch, MFA, professor emerita of fine arts
Graphite pencils are usually the first mark-making tools put into our hands as children. For adults, pencils can be a profound vehicle for expressive drawing. You will smudge, layer, hatch, and mask your way to rich design ideas. You will explore both realistic volume and more abstract flat pattern styles using many different compositional strategies. Generous handouts, teacher demonstrations, bulletin board displays, and student participation will keep our discovery fresh and energized. This course is specifically designed for the student who has just begun explorations in studio art, but students at any level of art study are welcome.
Two-week course
Kat Collins, MA, visiting instructor
The Bible includes many intriguing stories about children. Though often overlooked, these texts give us a glimpse of the roles of children in biblical society. We will use social-historical and literary lenses to explore the contexts and themes of these references to children. We'll delve into questions like these: How did biblical authors view children both as real characters and metaphorically? How could a captive Israelite girl be instrumental in a Syrian captain's healing? Why did so many younger brothers advance in a society that favored the firstborn? Which kings of Israel ruled as children? What symbolism exists in names given to children? Who does "my son" address in Proverbs? Why did Jesus want us to become as little children? Come discover more about the children of the Bible and the implications of their stories for us today.
Two-week course
Clark Beim-Esche, MA, retired English and integrated arts teacher
With that memorable phrase, Gouverneur Morris began the Constitution of the United States. Eleven years earlier, Thomas Jefferson had penned the equally vital Declaration of Independence, and four years after the writing of the Constitution, James Madison's ratified Bill of Rights would provide the first ten amendments to that document. These three texts— the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Bill of Rights—constitute in many ways the very heart of the meaning of American liberty and governance. But how many of us have actually—and, more important, thoughtfully—read these essential texts? This course is an invitation to join a lively discussion of the content of these American "sacred documents." They are brief but packed with meaning of incalcula- ble value to anyone who holds dear the promises and responsibilities of being a citizen of the United States.
Two-week course - This course is currently full with a waitlist.
Tom Fuller, DSc, professor of computer science and mathematics
Mathematicians' vision of infinity was revolutionized at the dawn of the twentieth century. This course explores some of these revolutionary ideas evident in the world of nature around us. We see infinity's signature in the curl of the snail's shell, the swirl of sunflower seeds, patterns in pine cones, the flow of cornstalks, and the leaflet that turns naturally to the light. You will learn to observe and appreciate mathematical expressions in these and other natural phenomena. Doing so will heighten your ability to identify and enjoy patterns in nature, architecture, and art. The math is accessible to a general audience—as is the nature!
Two-week course - The first week of this course is currently full with a waitlist.
Billy Miller, JD, MA, assistant professor of sociology
This course examines the international law of human rights—its origin, sources, content, enforcement, and justifications. It also surveys the legal recognition and protection of human rights via the United Nations, NGOs, and within various countries. This class will seek to define human rights and understand what role, if any at all, human dignity should play in framing human rights. We will look at the possibilities and limitations for human rights in pursuing global justice and ask if human rights are different from civil rights. We will also touch on the enforcement of human rights under international law and the way human rights figure into U.S. foreign policy and that of other nation states.
Two-week course
Angela Sage Larsen, published author/illustrator
Learn the essential steps to publishing your own book. Whether it's a memoir, novel, or children's book, this course will cover everything you need to know from conceiving your idea to writing, editing, and publishing it, including the use of online resources. You can even determine the scale of your publication's availability: Is it for you and your family members? Or do you want your words read by a global audience? Leave this informative class with a working outline and a viable publishing plan for your masterpiece. This course promises to educate and inspire the nascent writer in you. (Average computer skills are necessary.)
One-week course, offered each week
Sharon Carper, MSEd, retired U.S. diplomat
Given the mission of The Christian Science Monitor to "bless all mankind," the newspaper alerts us to those world hot spots that demand our prayerful attention. This class will use the Daily News Brief from the Monitor to identify current issues of a diplomatic nature. Then, through the experience of your instructor, a veteran Foreign Service Officer, you will learn more about our diplomatic efforts and the workings of the U.S. Department of State as these officers do battle for us. This class will share insights and experiences from work on international crises, always keeping in mind our prayerful response to world needs. With your classmates, you will work to solve these problems, get the issues in perspective, and be alert to our world that is ripe for healing. Take advantage of this opportunity to become a more active Christian Science world citizen.
Two-week course
Marie Jureit-Beamish, DMA, professor of music
Music in South America and Asia is transforming the face of classical music throughout the world. Move over USA and Europe! Beginning with the renowned Suzuki music teaching of Japan over fifty years ago, young students the world over are now inspired with the beauty of classical music to elevate and enrich the experience of all mankind. Just back from Matsumoto, Japan (world headquarters of Suzuki Talent Education), and a visit to the enormous Suzuki Festival in Lima, Peru, Dr. Jureit-Beamish shares her firsthand knowl- edge of hundreds of young musicians being "nurtured by love." The young and vibrant Venezuelan conductor of the LA Philharmonic, Dudamel, has brought worldwide attention to the amazing story of the Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestras of his native country. Over 30 million young Chinese are studying classical piano, and the conservatories of Korea are receiving adulations from classical musicians all over the world. Come and discover these amazing stories about the transformation of the classical music world!
Two-week course
David Coughtry, MFA, associate professor of studio art
This studio painting class centers around the magic of realism and illusion of reality found within the art of still-life painting. Students will have the opportunity to create several still-life paintings over the course of the session from subject matter set up in Voney studio. A PowerPoint presentation will be built into the class featuring a visual history of the still-life tradition, including ancient and modern concepts and terminology associated with the genre. Painting sessions will include technical exercises, demonstrations, individual guidance in painting, as well as class critiques of work produced. This course will benefit students with limited or extensive experience in painting. Approaches to painting with oils will be demonstrated.
Double hour, two-week course
Sara Rockabrand, MM, former professor of voice
Do you love to sing? This class is designed to help you develop the full potential of your voice, even if you have never had any vocal training— yes, even if you’ve had difficulty staying on key! You will learn what you need whether it is basic vocal technique, better breathing control, or strategies for extending your range or overcom- ing fear of performance. You will also receive individualized instruction from an experienced voice teacher/coach in a supportive class atmosphere.
Two-week course
Colin Campbell, PhD, professor emeritus of English
Even devoted students of the Christian Science textbook sometimes underestimate its literary merit. Starting with a definition of good literature, your professor will discuss those features of Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures that make it a masterpiece. He will illustrate Mrs. Eddy's use of figurative language, her grasp of profound theological concepts, the stylistic richness of her prose, and other characteristics of the textbook that enable it to stand next to the King James Bible as one of the great books of the Western world.
One-week course, offered each week
Keith Preston, MAT, history teacher
Two of our most important Founders lived long lives that included writing the Declaration of Independence and a bitter fight in one of the most contentious elections in U.S. history. Learn how that friendship led to political opposition and bitterness, and eventually to recon- ciliation. In their last years, both showed their common love and concern for the young nation they had helped to birth. They also came to appreciate the other’s important part in that story. Students of all backgrounds will be inspired by this true tale of conflict and redemption.
Two-week course
Ted Bartelstone, JD, attorney at law
During the first two years of President Obama’s administration and following the midterm elections, the country has become ever more aware of the United States Constitution and its implications for our everyday lives. That foundational text has gone from an old and somewhat abstract work to a highly relevant document. The current Republican House of Representatives vows to litmus test each piece of legislation against the Constitution. The Democrats claim a more expansive view, seeing their perspective as necessary to provide justice to all. Legal challenges to immigration laws, national healthcare, public funding for private education, and much more are pending in the courts. By the time we sit down together this summer, we may have some of the answers, but what does it all mean? Will the two new Supreme Court Justices make a difference? Join our discussion to find out.
Two-week course
Mary Jane Chaignot, MA, visiting instructor
Imagine a congregation whose members don't always get along. There are divisions, issues of morality, competing groups. People aren't always kind to each other. Sometimes they try to outdo or outshout each other. Some are arrogant, expecting everything. Some are humble, expecting nothing. Some threaten to leave; others are told to leave. Some are confident of their theology but rarely practice it; others aren't sure of anything but are ready to learn. Add to this mix, along with thousands of years of interpretation, some of Paul's most unpalatable statements about women. And realize that this was Paul's flagship church, founded by him about three to five years before he wrote the letters we know as I and II Corinthians. In this course, we'll put Paul's letters in context, study this lively congregation, and find lessons to apply to our own church communities.
Two-week course
Jeff Steele, PhD, associate professor of interdisciplinary studies
See words from a text spring to life and hear them resonate through the art of oral interpre- tation. Discover the infinite vitality of the Bible and our textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, when each is read as a literary work, while you gain in your appre- ciation of the beauty and nuance inherent in any written text. Using background source material, Bible commentaries, and maps, this class will give you the tools to bring both books to life in oral presentation. With instruction and practice, you will learn to bring out the beauty and love within the reader—especially if that reader is you.
Two-week course
Patrick McCreary, MFA, assistant professor of theatre
Become familiar with the history of this graceful and exciting sport. Learn the rules, equip- ment, footwork, and basic moves. Participate in classic fencing drills. Thrill to actual engagements on the "piste" (the fencing strip or field of play). A rewarding physical and mental challenge for all ages. All necessary equipment will be provided.
Two-week course
John Oyer, MSS, visiting instructor
Sound like fun? It truly is, while at the same time you get a great workout. Each year we use the water in new ways to extend movement, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and strength. We have a variety of workouts that don't require getting your hair wet, and all of our workouts take place in the shallow end. All that is required is a smile and a suit . . . the rest is just fun in motion.
Two-week course
