Abstract
In this specific course students will engage in pre-travel lectures, reading, and reflection
in preparation for engagement in the context of Israel. This will be a dual narrative
course on two levels: a) historical/contemporary: engaging the traditional sites marking
the life of Jesus as well as engaging with current dynamics in modern Israel and b)
religious/political: hearing multiple narratives in terms of faith and politics. Students will
practice the disciplines of self-reflection, humility, and appreciative inquiry as they
encounter and evaluate various approaches to understanding the pursuit of justice and
peacebuilding in the region.
III. COURSE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS:
A] Cognitive (knowledge & comprehension)
1. Develop a foundational understanding of the history and current
dynamics in the State of Israel.
2. Grow in understanding of the historical context of the life of Jesus.
3. Gain a balanced perspective on the Israeli/Palestinian conflict.
4. Gain awareness of various Christian theological views and implications for
conceptualization of the modern state of Israel.
5. Apply principles related to justice and peacebuilding to the context of
Israel/Palestine.
B] Affective (feeling & appreciation)
1. Grow in empathy as you encounter conflicting narratives, seeking to
understand the complex lived realities of others.
2. Appreciate cultural differences and how one can be enriched by engaging
in cross-cultural contexts as a humble learner.
3. Encounter the context of the life of Jesus with appreciation for the
transcendent themes from biblical to contemporary times, reflecting
upon your personal faith journey considering your experience.
C] Synectic (performance & problem solving)
1. Recognize the complexity of issues in modern Israel and evaluate various
approaches to seeking peace in the region.
2. Demonstrate an ability to practice cultural humility, empathetic listening,
and self -appraisal.
3. Identify key issues in the region and an awareness of sources for
continued research and engagement.
4. Participate in gracious dialogue as a humble learner from individuals from
various cultural, political, and religious backgrounds.
5. Evaluate Christian theological conceptions of the modern state of Israel.