Susan's Place Transgender Resources

General Discussions => Spirituality => Christianity => Topic started by: Constance on September 15, 2014, 10:41:38 PM

Title: Seminary
Post by: Constance on September 15, 2014, 10:41:38 PM
So, a while back I posted that I'd been accepted into the Master's of Divinity and Certificate of Sexuality and Religion programs at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, CA.

That seminary is now my home.

I moved from my apartment in San Mateo to a dorm on campus. I only have 2 classes totally 6 credits (Spiritual Formation Leadership and Critical Intro to the Old Testament) because my intention was to work part time while going to seminary part time. Then, I lost my job in July. I'm still here, trying to get more financial aid, and I'm looking for work as well.

There are a LOT of trans persons here at PSR, so many that we aren't really a minority.

It's a great thing.
Title: Re: Seminary
Post by: JulieBlair on October 06, 2014, 11:35:20 AM
Congratulations on beginning a new phase of your life  :).

"Master's of Divinity and Certificate of Sexuality and Religion"  Well that sounds like both a mouthful and a unique and interesting course of study.  I'm curious, what is a Certificate of Sexuality and Religion?  It sounds intriguing.

Peace,
Julie
Title: Re: Seminary
Post by: Constance on October 06, 2014, 07:10:13 PM
"PSR's Certificate in Sexuality and Religion (CSR) is designed to provide specialized training for such leadership in religious settings by providing a unique program focusing on the theological, historical, ethical, pastoral, and practical dimensions of sexuality, sexual orientation, religion, and gender identity."
As I hope to minister to the queer and trans communities in particular, it seems that this certificate program would be a good addition to my MDiv. Many of the core classes for the CSR will be applicable as electives for my MDiv, so getting this certificate will serve multiple purposes.
Title: Re: Seminary
Post by: JulieBlair on October 06, 2014, 09:30:53 PM
If ever there was an underserved group of people it is the population you've chosen.  Good on you, and thanks.

Peace
Julie
Title: Re: Seminary
Post by: Constance on October 20, 2014, 09:58:54 PM
Thanks, Julie.
Title: Re: Seminary
Post by: paxi1334 on October 24, 2014, 07:57:45 PM
Seminary is fun stuff! I was there for 6 years from 2006 to 2012 and finally got my MDiv but have yet to go through the ordination process because I'm not yet ready for another big venture.
Title: Re: Seminary
Post by: Constance on October 24, 2014, 09:56:22 PM
It's "reading week" which means it's the half-way point of my first semester. The experience is amazing so far!