Here are more sample assignments to help inspire fresh thinking about how to incorporate a concern for vocation, flourishing and economic justice across the curriculum.
Biblical Studies or Theology
Ask students to watch an episode of the Jesus and Your Job series by Sean McDonough at the Theology of Work Project and answer the following questions:
- What theological point related to work is addressed?
- How are the Scriptures used to explain and illustrate this point?
- What other Scriptural passages might illustrate this point?
- How does the Scripture relate to the lives of the workplace Christians interviewed?
- Bonus assignment: write a set of study questions for your congregation about the chosen video.
Preaching
Ask students to prepare a sermon on one of the scripture passages from the series linked above, using sermon illustrations drawn from workplace experiences (whether those in the videos or others).
Church Music and Liturgy
Ask students to respond to the article “Blessing our Pets – and More” by Pam Tinsley and the accompanying Weekly Prayer Cycle for vocations by Demi Prentiss and Fletcher Lowe.
- What insights can be gained from this article for designing worship that focuses on the “Monday through Saturday self”?
- What might you add to or subtract from the prayer cycle for your particular situation? How could you incorporate these or similar prayers into your weekly worship?
Church Music and Liturgy, Theology, Biblical Studies
Ask students to respond to one of the songs on work from the Porter’s Gate Worship Project. (Note: the entire CD is available for purchase, and five songs can be viewed for free.)
- What theological principles are taught by the song?
- What are some Scriptural passages referenced explicitly or implicitly by the song?
- How well does the song capture the experience of the workplace?
- How could the song best be used in worship?
Mission and Evangelism
Ask students to respond to these articles from workplace Christians at The High Calling:
- “What If Your Workplace is Your Mission Field?” by Dan King
- “5 Ways to be a Christian in the Workplace (And Not Freak Out Human Resources)” by David Rupert
- “Follow Me” by Marcus Goodyear
- “Hearing Christ at Work” by Debbie Simler-Goff
- “Confessions of an Ex-Car Dealer” by Wayne Kirkland
Questions:
- How do these Christians view their faith and their work?
- How do they care for their co-workers?
- How do they witness to Christ?
- How do they negotiate ethical dilemmas?
- What do they most need from the church?
Are the answers to any of these questions surprising to you?
Jennifer Woodruff Tait is managing editor of Christian History, content editor for The High Calling at the Theology of Work Project, an Episcopal priest, an affiliate professor at Asbury Theological Seminary, and the author of The Poisoned Chalice.
