Taking a class, whether at church, college or community center, can be fun, stimulating … and a little intimidating. Recently, intimidation was high on my list.

I heard great things about a “History of Hebrew Scriptures” class at Unity Institute® and Seminary. Several students commented on how fascinating it was and how much it changed their point of view. And then the instructor, Rev. E.J. Niles, wrote an article for Unity Magazine® (May/June 2010) that piqued my interest in the history of the Scriptures. I was intrigued and wanted more!

My only hesitation lay in the fact that I would be sitting in class next to ministerial students. “They know the Bible inside and out,” I thought to myself. “They complete scholarly research and write brilliant papers.” I just knew there would be heady discussions of metaphysics and quantum physics and regular physics, and I would sit there quietly knowing only that I could spell the books of the Bible correctly. And what if they didn't appreciate somebody sitting in class just for fun; they were called to be ministers after all, serious stuff. I just wanted to know why there are two creation stories in Genesis.

I got over it and enrolled in the class. And I'm so glad I did. There were a few lofty discussions, from which I learned things, and some that were anything but, in which I got a good laugh. The class size was small, perfect for an easy dialogue and give and take of ideas. I was never an “outsider” as a nondegree student. In fact, I was warmly welcomed and made new friends. The experience meant so much that I promptly signed up for another class the following term.

A hidden treasure at Unity, Unity Institute and Seminary offers more than just classes for those on the ministerial path. The Ministry and Religious Studies program provides two graduate paths, a masters of divinity degree and a diploma in Unity ministry, while Spiritual Education and Enrichment (SEE) features a program of study for those wishing to be a licensed Unity teacher or for anyone wanting to take classes for spiritual growth.

Rev. Dr. Paul Hasselbeck, manager of SEE, says the continuing education programs offered to the public are “truly about a person's own spiritual journey. In this sense, it is for everyone … from the casual learner to the person who wants to become a Unity leader.”

Available on campus at Unity Village, online and in churches/centers, SEE classes are generally open to all (most of the classes in the Leadership Development program require first completing the Spiritual Development program). The SEE courses can be taken individually for personal growth or to fulfill requirements for becoming a licensed Unity teacher or enrolling in ministerial school.

Mona Krane, who is currently working on her masters of divinity degree at the Institute, says SEE courses were “not only a valuable learning and personal growth experience, they were just plain fun!”

While Unity Institute offers graduate-level courses with some prerequisite requirements, it isn't necessary to be a degree-seeker to participate. I only signed up for the courses I found interesting. And I audited the classes, so homework and exams were optional, though classes can be taken for credit even when not on a degree track.

Admissions representative Rev. Mark Fuss says any student, minister or congregant is welcome to audit a class or enroll for credit. “The application process is easy and mirrors that of your local community college,” he notes. Some UI classes can be taken online; most meet on the Unity Village campus.

Mona appreciates the instructors who come meticulously prepared but also “open to the direction the class wants to take with the ideas presented.”

Taking the leap of faith and enrolling in a class expanded my horizons, enriched my soul, and gave me the opportunity to garner a new perspective. It was an amazing experience.

Helpful information on all the education opportunities at Unity can be found at www.unity.org/education, whether you are interested in a full program of study or just an occasional class or two for personal enjoyment.

 

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