Credo (2/24)
Having gone through the UFDN sequence, students should have had time to reflect on what constitutes their principal convictions. Taking now this class with its emphasis on Christian orthodoxy, students can begin to think theologically about their lives and vocations in light of the formative experiences and assumed authorities they live by. In light of this culmination, the task of the “Credo” statement is to draw together what was experienced in this sequence of courses as well as the experiences one has had at SPU in order to deliver a personal statement of faith. Even those who do not profess to be Christians can engage in this activity because the questions that are to guide the assignment’s writing are sufficiently broad. These questions are:
1) What are two key formative experiences or events for how you live today?
2) What are two important influences/expressions/people you assume in configuring your worldview? (do not include parents, Bible, or God; you may have these as important influences, but I am looking for others, especially since God is treated in number 3 and since I want you to think rather than give cookie-cutter answers; these can be works of art, people, etc.)
3) How would you articulate your relationship with God? (I want to see hopes, struggles, and challenges; please: no cut and paste of Bible verses or creedal statements; if you don’t believe in God, narrate what prohibits you from doing so)
4) What two core beliefs are expressed by how you behave/act? Be very specific; no generic statements here, do not include the “golden rule”; take an inventory of how you live before answering this question; look at what you actually do to garner what you believe (and not the other way around).
