PYC 8020 STUDY OF RELIGIONS: LIFE, DEATH, AND AFTERLIFE (3)

The sacred texts of the world’s religions are a fascinating mix of history, advice, rules, mythology and ritual and are used for guidance, encouragement, healing, and inspiration. Familiarization with these writings provides the student with a broad overview of their origin, form, and content especially as they impact the lives of their clients’ beliefs in the purpose of life and the existence of an afterlife. Understanding how these texts convey spiritual truth, establish a connection with the divine, and align with a life span/developmental perspective provides the groundwork for counselors to utilize skills that help clients to internally process issues that can shake their faith. Integrating hermeneutical skills, to interpret and understand sacred texts through an objective, social and subjective approach, can also assist beginning counselors in their development of microskills such as reflection, attending and observing, and empathy.