Theological Courses for the Fall and Winter Sessions of 2011-2012

Introduction to theology and the elements of Catholic theology. Revelation, Faith, Tradition, Church doctrine, infallibility, biblical inspiration. Lectures, mid-term test, final exam.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of two central Christian doctrines - the Trinity and the person of Christ - as well as reflection on the role of Holy Scripture and the nature of theology. This is the first part of a two-part sequence in basic Christian doctrine. Online lectures, discussion board postings, final paper.

Introduction to theology and the elements of Catholic theology. Revelation, Faith, Tradition, Church doctrine, infallibility, biblical inspiration. Lectures, mid-term test, Three short papers, final exam.

Basic principles of reformed theology and their significance in current theological debate. Lecture.

Introduction to theology, including introductory treatment of theological method, creation, God, Christology, Trinity, soteriology, and eschatology. Requirements: lectures, short paper, take-home examination, final research paper. Prequisite: basic course in Bible.

This course is designed for new students, and acts as an introduction to a number of central pastoral responsibilities: teaching the faith to new Christians, grasping the overall shape and purpose of Christian theology, assessing and meeting the demands of local culture and context, engaging the character of conversion and formation, and finally, grasping an overall shape to the history of Christian witness. The course pursues the historical examination of key catechetical texts from the New Testament to the contemporary period, analyzes their content and purpose, locates them historically, and seeks to engage students' own comprehensive vision of the Gospel, its communication, and pastoral practice. Lectures and weekly tutorials on the primary-source reading. Extensive reading, discussion, and mastering of content. Weekly content quizzes; 3 papers (6-10 pages each); final exam. Tutorial from 10-11 am

Intro to scholastic terms and concepts in the context of their use in the philosophical theology of Thomas Aquinas. Lectures, discussion, short papers, final exam.

Primer for theological students with little or no background in philosophical thought. Attention to revolutionary developments in philosophical thought and how they have influenced development of Christian faith. Book analysis, exam.

An introduction to the subjective dimensions of Catholic moral theology. Among the topics to be considered are concepts of the person, freedom and responsibility, conscience, aspects of moral decision making, virtue and vice. Lectures, discussions, readings, short papers and final exam; the course will also include a limited online component. (Prerequisite: Fundamental Christian Ethics I.)

Basic principles of Christian ethics, with special attention to the pastoral application of moral theology. Case-study method used. Designed for Regis IFM students. Readings, lectures, seminar work, 3 short essays, final exam. Seminar work requires an additional one-hour commitment per week.

This course explores the activity of God from creation to new creation, with special emphasis on the Spirit's work in the Church. We also examine the image of God in the human person and the nature of sin. This course presupposes Systematic Theology I. Lectures, tutorials. Short papers, final exam. Tutorial 10-11 am

An examination of formative and alternative theologies of redemption from Christianity's early years through the twentieth century, focusing on how theologians have variously conceived the problem to which redemption is addressed, the work and person of Jesus Christ, and the roles of God and humanity in effecting redemption. Theologians considered may include Irenaeus, Athanasius, Augustine, Calvin, Bushnell, Maurice, Niebuhr, Cone, Soelle, Heyward, and Ruether. Lectures, reading, discussions, presentation and final paper. Prerequisite: one introductory course in systematic theology.

A theological study of the Mystery of the Triune God with its Biblical sources and Patristic development.

Answering Jesus' question: "Who do people say I am?", course uses Old Testament expectations, New Testament data, Conciliar definitions and contemporary issues. Lectures, mid-term test discussion, essay, final exam.

Systematic and pastoral approach to christology and soteriology. Emphasis on New Testament christologies, later developments, contemporary interpretations. Study of the impact on christology of such issues as the continuing quest for the historical Jesus, dialogue with other religions, and in particular with Judaism, the challenge of liberation and feminist theologies, and the new cosmology. Seminar participation, short paper, take-home exam.

Theology of creation. The human person in its created existence in the image of Christ; origin of humankind. Doctrine of original sin. One midterm test, one mini-synthesis and a final oral examination.

The new creation in Christ; God's universal salvific will, the mystery of Christian Justification, the new life in Christ within Church for the world. Eschatology. One midterm test, one mini-synthesis and a final oral examination.

The mystery of the Church as seen in the light of Vatican II. Her foundation in Christ in Scripture and history that gives rise to her structure, mission, and four Marks. Mary as the Mother of the Church and eschatological icon. One midterm test, one mini-synthesis and a final oral examination. This course is part of the Diaconate Formation Diploma program at St. Augustine's.

Introduction to sacraments in general, historical and systematic study of sacraments of initiation (baptism, confirmation, Eucharist) with special consideration of the pastoral viewpoint. Three short papers, seminars, final exam.

Historical and systematic study of the sacraments of healing (penance and anointing of the sick) and sacraments of growth (marriage and orders) with special consideration of the pastoral viewpoint. Three short papers, seminars, final exam.

Theological reflection on the sacramental life of the Church in the context or worship and education in sacramentality. Lectures, course notes supplied and class discussions. Group presentations, mid-term test and final exam.

This course examines the differing historical contexts (historical, intellectual and theological) of the Book of Common Prayer, including an exploration of the religious, political and social environs that produced each version in Anglican Church history. The course methodology is lecture, readings, and discussion. Course evaluation will consist of written responses and reflections based on assigned readings and a research project. 

This is a survey course in Anglican theology that will involve extensive reading. Using the lens of Scriptural interpretation as a way of approaching the sweep of Anglican theological thinking, this course will survey chronologically a broad range Anglican readers of Scripture in an attempt to gauge the development of the larger religious vision of Anglicanism over time. Beginning with Wycliffe, the course will move through a number of writers into the early 20th century, and end with some recent statements on the reading of Scripture from around the Anglican Communion. Lectures and weekly tutorials on the primary-source readings. Weekly content quizzes; midterm; final exam.

Exploration of the following themes in the light of Christian revelation: creation, community, body & soul, humanity as male and female, sin, grace, eschatology. Lectures, readings, presentations, final exam.

Explores historical sources of division among Christian churches, origins of the modern ecumenical movement, the commitment of the Roman Catholic Church to Christian unity, growing agreement in sacramental life. Special attention to implications for catechesis and pastoral care of inter-church families.

This course aims to create an ecumenical and interdisciplinary discourse on the practice of church music which is an important factor in shaping Christian identity from a global perspective. We shall examine various issues pertaining to the role of music in contemporary Christian performance and explore the musical enterprises that represent the ethnic and national identities of World Christianities and of migration or diaspora Christianities. Topics covered will include the enculturation of Christian worship and music, music and popular religious culture, the globalization of church music, cultural hybridity and inclusivity in Christian music, and the encounter of indigenous musico-religious culture and traditional church music in the non-Western world.  Method: lectures, seminars, music listening, readings. Evaluation: Class participation (20%): Review (Book) (20%); Review (Worship) (30%); Presentation (30%)

The purpose of this course is to help students realize the contextual nature of theology through lectures on contextual theology as well as seminars on Asian theologians and their theologies.  With this format, this course aims to help non-Asian students to get some knowledge of Asian cultures and Asian indigenous religions, and Asian students to develop a theology based on their Asian heritage and experiences.  Consequently, this course aspires to help theological students, both Asian and non-Asian, to overcome Western parochialism and contribute to a development of Christian theology for the coming multicultural and pluralistic century that we have been already embarked on.

Survey of some basic issues in philosophical theology: religious experience, faith and reason, divine attributes, problem of evil, petitionary prayer, etc. Readings from ancient, medieval, and contemporary sources. Lectures, discussions, short papers, final exam.

An introduction to the terminology, categories and debates in both classical and modern metaphysics.  No previous philosophy courses are required.  Topics will include the following: categories of being; universals and particulars; substances, essences and accidents; causation; capacity and activity; possibility and necessity; materialism and idealism; realism and anti-realism; and natural theology.  Teaching methods: Lectures and class discussions.  Means of Evaluation: One short paper, two longer papers and class participation.

A philosophical examination of some fundamental topics in Christian metaphysics: creation, causality, the problem of evil, and freedom of the will. Readings taken from "classical" Christian theologians such as Augustine, Aquinas and Luther and also from contemporary sources. Lectures, discussions, short papers and final exam.

In this course, we will look at some of the central problems of epistemology: What is knowledge? How do we get it? Exactly what do we know, anyway? How does knowledge differ from belief? And how do we respond to the challenges of scepticism and post-modernism? After starting with a historical survey of the answers to these questions, we will examine the answers proposed by the Jesuit theologian Bernard Lonergan.

In the 17th century, the thinkers of the Scientific Revolution were looking for explanations of the physical world that were valid everywhere and for all time. In the 18th century, Enlightenment thinkers were also looking for universally valid explanations—but for human nature, morality and society. That all changed in the 19th century when thinkers realized that the contingency and mutability of existence make once-and-for-all answers impossible. Come find out how Hegel, Kierkegaard, Marx, Darwin, Nietzsche and Freud changed the way we look at the world forever. We will consider the thinkers’ ideas both in their historical context and in light of their implications for our own thinking about human nature, society, history, morality and God. Lectures, discussions, on-line questions. Two 6-8 page papers; class participation; on-line questions; final exam.

A study of the nature of postmodern homelessness in the light of a theological and phenomenological analysis of homecoming and homemaking. Biblical themes such as creation, exodus, covenant, land and kingdom will be interpreted in the context of present experiences of social homelessness, geo-political violence, international refugees, disconnectedness to the earth and an overwhelming sense of being nomads without roots in any place of community. Seminar. Evaluation: Class Participation 25%, reflection papers or one major essay 75%.

Will identify and deal with a complex set of issues involved in the relationship of the sciences -- natural, biological, and social -- to religion and theology. Particular attention will be given to methodological and epistemological matters. Assigned reading for class discussion and two short reports/papers related to lectures and class discussions.

Humans are story-telling animals. We find our identity, our memory, our vision and our meaning through the narratives of our lives. While the church has been a foundational story telling institution in our lives, it has clearly been eclipsed in the last half century by various forms of mass media, and most notably through cinema. In this course we will use the Toronto International Film Festival as our classroom. Engaging in a two way dialogue between film and Christian theology, students will develop a biblically theological understanding of contemporary film. We will explore the prophetic, pastoral, liturgical and theological contribution that contemporary cinema can make to Christian reflection and praxis in a late modern socio-historical context.

An analysis of the Bible’s teaching on government and perennial political issues, followed by an historical examination of how theology has interpreted this Biblical teaching in the context of historical issues; namely, church and state, war and peace, religious tolerations, economic justice, human rights. Lectures and discussions. Two essays on topics chosen by the student and approved by the instructor.

This course examines various theoretical and practical ethical issues that Christians face in today’s changing society, with special emphases on multicultural reality in Canada and the global ecological crisis today. The course consists of four parts: the theoretical foundation for Christian ethical thinking (part 1), social justice issues in Canadian multi-cultural multi-ethnic, and multi-religious society (part 2), ecological crisis and the church’s response (part 3), integration (part 4). Lecture and seminar. Minor and major papers, short weekly reading report and group discussion report, and one seminar presentation.

This course will study the documents of the Second Vatican Council with a view to understanding their theological foundations, their histroical context and development, and their pastoral implications for today's church. One book report, total 20%; one discussion facilitation, total 10%; one document analysis paper, total 30%; one disputed issue paper, total 40%.

Study of the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, as presented from a variety of perspectives: patristic, modern and feminist, with special consideration of implications for the concept of "person". Students will be asked to engage assigned readings in classroom discussions. Discussion paper, extended essay.

Close textual study of the Scriptural sources and dogmatic development of the Church’s reflection on the identity of the God who is revealed in Jesus the Christ. Students develop a systematic understanding of this material, leading to a personal and critical appropriation of the tradition in light of preparation for pastoral and theological leadership in the Church. Lectures and seminars. Assignments for 3222: exegetical paper, oral interview, 2 learning reports, take home final exam. Assignments for 6222: 2 mid-length papers, participation in 3 seminars outside of class time.

This course promotes the personal critical appropriation of the Scriptural and dogmatic tradition in Christology, whether in preparation for the M.Div. comprehensive exam, or as a solid foundation in Christology for other students. It helps the student preparing for ministry to bring a systematic understanding of the person and work of Jesus the Christ to bear on pastoral issues and exposes the student to the spiritual dimension of Christological teaching. Lectures and seminars. Assignments for 3243: exegetical paper, oral interview, 2 learning reports, take home final exam. Assignments for 6243: 2 mid-length papers, participation in 3 seminars outside of class time.

By the time of Jesus, Second Temple Judaism had articulated an exceedingly wide variety of messianic scenarios, one of which would be embodied in the four gospels and other writings of the New Testament. By the time of the emergence of Muslim faith, Jesus' Messiahship would be taken by Mohammad as a given and yet understood in ways more akin to the contours of Jewish Messianism. This course explores the three Abrahamic faiths according to their leading Christological formulations.

Ignatius of Loyola wanted Jesuits to be "contemplatives in a ction". This describes the desire of many Christians today and the imperatives thrust upon us to be at once boned with God and with our fellow travellers. Reading in Loyola Zizioulas, J Macmurray, early Christian and contemporary theologians and mystics. NT accounts of prayer and action in Jesus of Nazareth. 10-12 page essay.

The course provides an exploration of how Christianity has understood the relationship among God, creation, humanity and spirituality, and how that understanding has contributed to the ecological challenges we currently face as well as can contribute to a helpful response. The course begins with an overview of our understanding of spirituality and creation during the patristic, medieval and reformation periods, then shifts to contemporary understandings drawing from current discussions of Christology, creation-centred spirituality, eco-feminism, deep ecology, and the healing of nature and the healing of self. Methods: Lectures, discussions. Evaluation: reflection paper, integration paper, class participation, practical integration

The Church baptizes and catechizes. The Church celebrates Eucharist. What does it mean to perform these actions? How can we perform them more faithfully? This course provides a 'systematic' theological overview of the sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist, incorporating biblical and historical perspectives along the way. Although the goal of the course is to develop a constructive Anglican theology of the sacraments, we will engage texts and authors from across the ecumenical spectrum. Some attention will also be paid to the 'other' sacraments, such as penance and holy orders. Final exam, short (10-15 page) final paper. Seminar discussions, lectures.

An exploration of the biblical, historical, liturgical, spiritual, and theological perspectives on the Holy Spirit. This course provides an overview of the development of the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. It also aims at highlighting the relevance and centrality of pneumatology in all areas of theology. Method: required readings, seminar discussions, lectures. Evaluation: participation, seminar leadership, short assignment, research paper.

Sacraments of baptism, confirmation, Eucharist, reconciliation, anointing of the sick, orders, and marriage as symbols of the world, challenge to human existence, life functions of the Church and features of Christology and revelation. Lectures, seminars, mid-term papers and final paper.  Short paper on ‘Symbol and Sacrament”, total 20%;  four short papers on one of the sacraments, 10% each (total 40%);  three case study critiques for in-class discussion, total 10%;  one final paper, total 30%.

Study and discussion of difficult topics in current ecumenical dialogue among Christian churches where both breakthroughs and barriers are evident. The course will focus on justification, women's ordination, Eucharist, teaching authority, papacy, ethical decision-making and the uniqueness of Christ and/in interreligious dialogue. Auditors welcome. Located at St. Michael's College. Lectures, readings and discussions; take-home exam and final paper.

This course surveys aspects of Christian thinking (not necessarily strictly theology) of the early modern period, concentrating on France, England, and representatives from other Western European countries. Lectures and readings focus on the question of (re)defining Christian identity, within several areas of religious concern: devotional life, epistemology, human history, and social relations. The course aims to provide students with first-hand knowledge of primary material that was either influential upon or typical of fundamental (though often conflictual) ways of construing Christian identity during this period and that have remained, in various guises, still a part of contemporary Christian outlooks. Course requirements include attendance at lectures and tutorials, the extensive assigned reading; 1-page weekly critical overviews, and the choice of a final exam or final paper.

A text based seminar examining Aquinas' theology of the Incarnation in the Summa Theologiae. Students will develop critical reading skills and familiarity with the grammatical, rhetorical and dialectical dimensions of Aquinas' systematics. Basic Degree: Short papers, reading assignments, major paper. Advanced degree: three shorter papers, classroom presentation, reading assignments, major research paper.

Theology of grace in representative Anglican theologians, including Thomas Cranmer, Richard Hooker, the Caroline Divines, the Tractarians, F.D. Maurice, Lux Mundi and William Temple. Prerequisite: introductory course in theology.

Reading and discussion of Bernard Lonergan's "Method in Theology." Lectures and seminars, written assignments. Offered in alternate years. AD students enrol in RGT5578HS.

This course examines major aspects of Wesley's theology as expounded chiefly in his Sermons on Several Occasions. Theological, ecclesiastical, social and intellectual environments will be probed, as well as developments in post-Wesley Wesleyanism. Attention will be given to the nuances of the denominations represented by those enrolled in the course.

In recent decades hosts of new voices have joined and vastly expanded theological dialogue: African Americans, women, and “Third World”–Latin American, South African, Filipino, Indian, Sri Lankan, Korean, etc. More recently indigenous, Hispanic American, womanist, gay and lesbian, mujerista/Latina, Asian-Canadian and Asian-American, and ecological voices are expanding the dialogues. And newer voices continue to emerge.  We will: trace the early history of dialogues among these new voices; sample more recent voices; identify points of convergence and divergence; examine epistemological, hermeneutical and methodological issues concerning experience, standpoints, perspectives; engage new–and very old–ways of reading the bible; explore new Christologies; probe the riches of this new theological diversity, the dangers of relativism and new grounds for authenticity and authority; explore new theological frontiers in re-centering theology in the Spirit and re-mapping earth and heaven, history and salvation.

Comparative exploration of the connections between liberation and postcolonial theologies. Study the various methodological shifts by liberation theologies and how these parallel postcolonial-decolonial theological debates. Focus will be to gain insight in the main ideas, specific methodologies, and key authors involved in the development and proliferation of these contemporary currents, and their relevance for the task of theology.

This course introduces the major religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam in detail and also others in brief) of the world -- their historical setting, basic principles, significant features, Holy Scriptures, theology, etc -- and a Christian perspective on them with an urgency to enter into interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

Using the writings of Thomas Berry & theologians who work with the new cosmology, the course provides an introduction to eco-theology as well as the ways eco-theologians are articulating new understandings of theological anthropology, revelation, Christology, pneumatology, sin and salvation, and eschatology. Adult learning methods. Evaluation: participation, practical integration, reflection paper and integration paper.

Studies the documents and teachings of Vatican II. Brief overview of the historical background to the Council and to Councils in the life of the church. Seminars guide discussions based on close readings of the 16 documents with emphasis on the historical context and ecclesiological significance of each document. Seminar presentations; participation in analysis of the documents; integration paper.

The seminar will undertake to study the comparative Sunni and Shi’ite theologies (‘ilm al-kalam) to underscore a historical development of Muslim creed in the context of social and political conditions. The course will concentrate on the development of Muslim Theology in general and the Sunni and Shi’ite creeds in particular. It will primarily be a comparative theological study, and secondarily Sunni-Shi’i doctrinal analysis. The major concern will be the development of creeds in Islam, the gradual process of formulating Principles of Religion (usul al-din), and their crystallization in the form of dogmas, with theological complexities. The essential difference between the Sunni and Shi’ite schools of thought begins in their emphasis on the fundamentality of leadership for the continuation of the prophetic mission. This difference also leads to their classification of the founding principles of Islam. While the Sunnites have insisted on a communal consensus regarding the centrality the community’s adherence to the Tradition for the continuation of the mission, the Shi’ites have regarded the ongoing need for authoritative guidance following the Prophethood, that is, the Imamate on rational-scriptural grounds.  The Sunnites have rejected the latter necessity on rational grounds. There is, however, agreement among all Muslims that three doctrines constitute the faith of Islam: Unity of God, Prophethood of Muhammad, and the Final Day of Judgment.  The Shi’ites add to these three two other doctrines: the Justice of God and the Imamate of the rightful successors of the Prophet. The Shi`a-Sunni differences have also impacted the development of juridical principles and ethical epistemologies based on the relationship between reason and revelation.

The course evaluates the Ignatian contribution to comtemporary ecclesiology. Utilizing key texts it situates Ignatius' sense of "Church" and the Society of Jesus relationship to the Church. Explores key issues and potential problems faced by a twenty-first-century reader of Ignatius. Engagement with contemporary Jesuit theologians, and the writings of Pope John Paul II and Cardinal Ratzinger. Mid-term paper, research paper, oral exam, class participation.

Everyone participates in the arts and culture, but who can say why? This course asks why the arts are important and addresses issues that face contemporary creators and interpreters of culture. Our aim is to develop imaginative, faith-oriented participation in the arts and culture. We will consider such topics as artistic freedom and social responsibility; communication through the arts and culture; the impact of globalization on cultural communities; the ethics of mass entertainment; the aesthetic quality of urban environments; and the role of arts in worship and interreligious dialogue. In addition to class sessions, we will attend various events in the city. Lecture, discussion, class presentations, attendance of public events, paper writing. Class participation: 20% / Seminar presentations: 30% / Research project: 50%.

MTS Synthesis Paper

The course will explore significant ways that Christians have theologized the arts, artistry and art culture. The course will compare the varieties of theologies that have emerged from within the Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox traditions. The study will involve looking at paintings, icons, altarpieces, and socially and culturally engaged works of art as well as pertinent theological writings. 

In the contemporary world, ecumenism must include dialogue between Christianity and world religions. This course will examine not only Christian attitudes to world religions, but also attitudes of world religions to other belief systems. Lectures, discussion, paper.

This course will engage in theological/biblical reflection on the nature of political economy by attending to themes of covenant, property, stewardship, justice and Kingdom. And we will bring that biblical reflection into dialogue with the work of Christian political economist Bob Goudzwaard. Professor Emeritus of the Free University of Amsterdam, former member of parliament, advisor to political parties, think tanks and NGO’s around the world, Goudzwaard has had a profound influence in shaping a Christian political-economic imagination.  In this course we will read Goudzwaard’s most important books (in translation) and have the opportunity to spend four seminars in conversation with him early in the semester.

A study of the basis of sexuality and marriage and select related issues in light of the Catholic moral tradition. Readings, lectures, discussions, paper, mid-term test, final exam; the course will also include a limited online component. (Prerequisite: Fundamental Christian Ethics I and II or Permission of Instructor)

Using contemporary articles from the biological and medical sciences, philosophical ethics, and magisterial teachings, the course will develop and apply critical thinking to contemporary issues in biomedical ethics including: issues pertaining to the creation of life (e.g., IV fertilization, reproductive technologies, surrogacy, stem cell research), the preservation of life (e.g., right to care, refusal of care, micro & macroallocation of limited resources, informed choice), and the end of life (e.g., euthanasia, allowing to die, elder neglect). Methods: lectures, discussions. Evaluation: response paper, integration paper, class participation.

This course seeks to understand the basis upon which the Bible can be read “figuratively”, within the context of an understanding of historical and temporal reality. The course makes use of exegesis (1 Corinthians 10, Genesis, and Ephesians 1), history of interpretation (both Christian and Jewish), philosophy of time, and the history of the philosophy of time as relevant to Christian theology and exegesis. The goal of the course is to outline a working framework for understanding how traditional figural referents in the Bible can be sustained in Christian reading of Scripture. Seminar format. Evaluation: Based on seminar performance (discussion and presentation of weekly research – 50%) and a final paper (50%).

Explores Christian Kenosis as an expression of the unconditional love of God made known in Christ. Here the mutual relations of self-giving in the Trinity may be reflected in the lives of human persons. Of key significance is Hans Urs von Balthasar's appreciation of the paschal mystery. Also in dialogue are: Sarah Coakley, John Paul II and Thomas Merton.  Lectures, discussion, class presentations, research paper, one short paper and a research paper.

This course explores a range of proposals in contemporary ecclesiology across the eccumenical spectrum. Special attention will be given to questions surrounding the Church's concretely historical character, as in the ecclesiology of "practices" and its critics. Authors read may include Ratzinger, Jenson, Hauerwas, Cavanaugh, Radner and Healy. Seminar discussion; brief, bullet-point responses to the readings; 2500-word final paper.

Examination of Augustine's writings against the Manichaeans, the Donatists, and the Pelagians. Discussion of weekly readings and a major paper.

Central ideas in the Kierkegaard corpus and their relevance to contemporary theological and philosophical concerns. Introductory lecture, seminar discussion of readings, discussions, one major term paper.

The purpose of this course is to survey the contemporary trends in the theology of faith and culture with an emphasis on mission, dialogue, interculteration, and the emergence of contextual theologies. A major portion of the course will focus on understanding the paradigm shift from a classicist notion of culture to one that has given rise to the various contextual approaches and the so-called "World Christianity(ies)." We will survey some of the various models, methods, and issues involved in this paradigm shift. The course willl also highlight certain tensions arising from this context such as the local-universal church tension, the dialogue-evangelism tension, the interculturation-syncretism tension, and the question of the theology of religions. Major paper.

Examination of resources and methods in theological work, focusing on hermeneutics as a strategic way of thinking about the role of texts and traditions in theological reflection. Emphasis on interpretation theories in conjunction with liberal, postliberal, and postmodern theological methodologies, particularly regarding issues of faith, authority, revelation, and religious pluralism. Lectures, discussions, student presentations, research paper.

Examination of the nature of theology from its emergence with the ancient Greek philosophers to its establishment as an academic enterprise in the middle ages. Seminar presentations (2) and a major paper.

Challenges of religious pluralism to Christianity appearing from outside Christianity, and responses to it. How do other world religious traditions think about Christianity or religions for that matter? What are the theoretical problems of religious pluralism and the response to them from within Christianity? Discussions of selected readings and occasional lectures as appropriate.

Contemporary struggles over globalization echo debates about modernization in the previous two centuries. How should we understand philosophical theories of progress and the sociocultural changes these theories address? By what criteria should supposed improvements in society be judged? The seminar pursues these questions through a study of Jürgen Habermas's The Theory of Communicative Action.

Close textual study of the Scriptural sources and dogmatic development of the Church’s reflection on the identity of the God who is revealed in Jesus the Christ. Students develop a systematic understanding of this material, leading to a personal and critical appropriation of the tradition in light of preparation for pastoral and theological leadership in the Church. Lectures and seminars. Assignments for 3222: exegetical paper, oral interview, 2 learning reports, take home final exam. Assignments for 6222: 2 mid-length papers, participation in 3 seminars outside of class time.

By the time of Jesus, Second Temple Judaism had articulated an exceedingly wide variety of messianic scenarios, one of which would be embodied in the four gospels and other writings of the New Testament. By the time of the emergence of Muslim faith, Jesus' Messiahship would be taken by Mohammad as a given and yet understood in ways more akin to the contours of Jewish Messianism. This course explores the three Abrahamic faiths according to their leading Christological formulations.

Ignatius of Loyola wanted Jesuits to be "contemplatives in a ction". This describes the desire of many Christians today and the imperatives thrust upon us to be at once boned with God and with our fellow travellers. Reading in Loyola Zizioulas, J Macmurray, early Christian and contemporary theologians and mystics. NT accounts of prayer and action in Jesus of Nazareth. 20-25 page essay.

The course provides an exploration of how Christianity has understood the relationship among God, creation, humanity and spirituality, and how that understanding has contributed to the ecological challenges we currently face as well as can contribute to a helpful response. The course begins with an overview of our understanding of spirituality and creation during the patristic, medieval and reformation periods, then shifts to contemporary understandings drawing from current discussions of Christology, creation-centred spirituality, eco-feminism, deep ecology, and the healing of nature and the healing of self. Methods: Lectures, discussions. Evaluation: reflection paper, integration paper, class participation, practical integration.

The Church baptizes and catechizes. The Church celebrates Eucharist. What does it mean to perform these actions? How can we perform them more faithfully? This course provides a 'systematic' theological overview of the sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist, incorporating biblical and historical perspectives along the way. Although the goal of the course is to develop a constructive Anglican theology of the sacraments, we will engage texts and authors from across the ecumenical spectrum. Some attention will also be paid to the 'other' sacraments, such as penance and holy orders. Final exam, short (10-15 page) final paper. Seminar discussions, lectures.

Study and discussion of difficult topics in current ecumenical dialogue among Christian churches where both breakthroughs and barriers are evident. The course will focus on justification, women's ordination, Eucharist, teaching authority, papacy, ethical decision-making and the uniqueness of Christ and/in interreligious dialogue. Auditors welcome. Located at St. Michael's College. Lectures, readings and discussions; take-home exam and final paper.

A text based seminar examining Aquinas' theology of the Incarnation in the Summa Theologiae. Students will develop critical reading skills and familiarity with the grammatical, rhetorical and dialectical dimensions of Aquinas' systematics. Basic Degree: Short papers, reading assignments, major paper. Advanced degree: three shorter papers, classroom presentation, reading assignments, major research paper.

Reading and discussion of Bernard Lonergan's "Insight", with special emphasis on its relevance for theology. Lectures, readings, seminars, written assignments.

This course examines major aspects of Wesley's theology as expounded chiefly in his Sermons on Several Occasions. Theological, ecclesiastical, social and intellectual environments will be probed, as well as developments in post-Wesley Wesleyanism. Attention will be given to the nuances of the denominations represented by those enrolled in the course.

In recent decades hosts of new voices have joined and vastly expanded theological dialogue: African Americans, women, and “Third World”–Latin American, South African, Filipino, Indian, Sri Lankan, Korean, etc. More recently indigenous, Hispanic American, womanist, gay and lesbian, mujerista/Latina, Asian-Canadian and Asian-American, and ecological voices are expanding the dialogues. And newer voices continue to emerge.  We will: trace the early history of dialogues among these new voices; sample more recent voices; identify points of convergence and divergence; examine epistemological, hermeneutical and methodological issues concerning experience, standpoints, perspectives; engage new–and very old–ways of reading the bible; explore new Christologies; probe the riches of this new theological diversity, the dangers of relativism and new grounds for authenticity and authority; explore new theological frontiers in re-centering theology in the Spirit and re-mapping earth and heaven, history and salvation.

Systematic theology has often been an attempt to develop a theology for all times and all places. But systematic thinking can also be consciously situated in history. In time, our web of beliefs may become reconfigured and re-centred. This course will read selections of Calvin’s Institutes alongside a contemporary text in systematic theology (focussing on areas such as Divine sovereignty, election, grace and self-knowledge) in order to stimulate our own reflections on the best way to develop a theology in and for today.

Studies the documents and teachings of Vatican II. Brief overview of the historical background to the Council and to Councils in the life of the church. Seminars guide discussions based on close readings of the 16 documents with emphasis on the historical context and ecclesiological significance of each document. Seminar presentations; participation in analysis of the documents; integration paper.

The seminar will undertake to study the comparative Sunni and Shi’ite theologies (‘ilm al-kalam) to underscore a historical development of Muslim creed in the context of social and political conditions. The course will concentrate on the development of Muslim Theology in general and the Sunni and Shi’ite creeds in particular. It will primarily be a comparative theological study, and secondarily Sunni-Shi’i doctrinal analysis. The major concern will be the development of creeds in Islam, the gradual process of formulating Principles of Religion (usul al-din), and their crystallization in the form of dogmas, with theological complexities. The essential difference between the Sunni and Shi’ite schools of thought begins in their emphasis on the fundamentality of leadership for the continuation of the prophetic mission. This difference also leads to their classification of the founding principles of Islam. While the Sunnites have insisted on a communal consensus regarding the centrality the community’s adherence to the Tradition for the continuation of the mission, the Shi’ites have regarded the ongoing need for authoritative guidance following the Prophethood, that is, the Imamate on rational-scriptural grounds.  The Sunnites have rejected the latter necessity on rational grounds. There is, however, agreement among all Muslims that three doctrines constitute the faith of Islam: Unity of God, Prophethood of Muhammad, and the Final Day of Judgment.  The Shi’ites add to these three two other doctrines: the Justice of God and the Imamate of the rightful successors of the Prophet. The Shi`a-Sunni differences have also impacted the development of juridical principles and ethical epistemologies based on the relationship between reason and revelation.

The course evaluates the Ignatian contribution to comtemporary ecclesiology. Utilizing key texts it situates Ignatius' sense of "Church" and the Society of Jesus relationship to the Church. Explores key issues and potential problems faced by a twenty-first-century reader of Ignatius. Engagement with contemporary Jesuit theologians, and the writings of Pope John Paul II and Cardinal Ratzinger. Lectures, seminar discussion, student presentations, one short paper and a research paper.  Prerequisite: one year of theology, at least three theology courses.

Everyone participates in the arts and culture, but who can say why? This course asks why the arts are important and addresses issues that face contemporary creators and interpreters of culture. Our aim is to develop imaginative, faith-oriented participation in the arts and culture. We will consider such topics as artistic freedom and social responsibility; communication through the arts and culture; the impact of globalization on cultural communities; the ethics of mass entertainment; the aesthetic quality of urban environments; and the role of arts in worship and interreligious dialogue. In addition to class sessions, we will attend various events in the city. Lecture, discussion, class presentations, attendance of public events, paper writing. Class participation: 20% / Seminar presentations: 30% / Research project: 50%.

Postmodernity as a cultural phenomenon, implications in various areas of cultural endeavour (including politics, philosophy, psychology, theology, the arts, and science), and work toward an integral Christian worldview that gives guidance in a post-modern world. A particular concern will be to plumb the resources of Scripture for such a cultural context.Lectures, seminar discussions, multimedia. Reflection paper (25%), participation (25%), major paper (50%).

This course will examine the key theological, mystical and philosophical notions of music that are of essential significance in relation to the history of Christian music from ancient to modern. Topics covered will include the relations of music and language, music and morality, music and monasticism, music and magic, the connection of music, body and spirit, and the musical syncretism of the so-called secular and the sacred. Class participation, major essay, final examination.

The seminar will undertake to study the Islamic Legal Theory (usul al-fiqh) and Practice (fiqh) in conjunction with Islamic ethics, which serves as an integral part of the juridical tradition of Islam. The sources of law like the Qur'an, the Tradition (Sunna), Consensus (Ijma'), Analogy (qiyas) and Reason ('aql) will be examined in connection with the process by which legal decisions in Islam are made. The course will provide an opportunity to students of comparative ethics and law to learn about one of the well-developed religious-ethical systems in Abrahamic traditions. In addition, this course will offer a study of interaction between faith and history in Islam which has impacted upon the development of ethical-legal judgments in the Shariʿa. Assessment: Reading papers, book reviews, and a final paper.

Application of critical thinking to contemporary issues in biomedical ethics including: issues pertaining to the creation of life (e.g., IV fertilization, reproductive technology, surrogacy, stem cell research), the preservation of life (e.g., right to care, refusal of care, micro & macroallocation of limited resources, informed choice), and the end of life (e.g., euthanasia, allowing to die, elder neglect).

An introduction to Patristic thought to 451 AD, surveying principal writers East and West. Detailed study of Athanasius On the Incarnation and The Tome of Leo. Lectures, readings, four short reports and a final oral examination.

Outlines the history of Christian missions from its beginnings in Pentecost to the end of the 20th century, followed by area studies of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Europe, and concluding with a consideration of the transition from missions to development to post-development. Short papers and collaborative internet project.

A review of all of the surviving works of Richard Hooker, often called the first theologian of Anglicanism, his Calvinism and reaction to Calvinism, his scholasticism, and his defence of the institutions of the Church of England. Seminars, short report and major paper. (Taught in alternate years)

Emphasis on the history of the iconoclastic controversy and ecumenical councils, especially for the development of Christology. Readings from Nicaea II, Theodore the Studite, John of Damascus and Theodore Abu Qurrah. Iconography and spirituality. Church visit. Lectures-seminar, reflection papers, major paper. Prerequisite: Three courses from the Theological or Historical departments.

A review of all of the surviving works of Richard Hooker, often called the first theologian of Anglicanism, his Calvinism and reaction to Calvinism, his scholasticism, and his defence of the institutions of the Church of England. Seminars, short report and major paper. (Taught in alternate years)

Emphasis on the history of the iconoclastic controversy and ecumenical councils, especially for the development of Christology. Readings from Nicaea II, Theodore the Studite, John of Damascus and Theodore Abu Qurrah. Iconography and spirituality. Church visit. Lectures-seminar, reflection papers, major paper. Prerequisite: Three courses from the Theological or Historical departments.

Beginning with a quick review of English grammar, the course will introduce the grammar and syntax of the Latin language and provide practice in their use in order to lead students to a reading knowledge of Ecclesiastical Latin: the Vulgate, Canon Law, Ambrose, Augustine, Jerome, Aquinas, hymns and other documents. Evaluation will be based on course assignments, weekly class participation, periodic tests and a final exam. Please note: the second hour of each class is a mandatory tutorial.

The course develops major themes in the history of Christian spirituality, through a close reading of selections by Plato, Origen, Pseudo-Dionysius, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, St. Gregory of Palamas, Julian of Norwich, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and Dorothy Day. Lectures, discussion, critical reflection papers.

Exposes students to contemporary forms of critical and cultural analysis, using the analysis to look at spirituality and exposing students to contemporary manifestations of spirituality in a post-modern age. Eight reflection papers; class participation.

This course explores the nature of religious experience in some of the major religions of the world, with special attention to Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam and Christianity. It includes some comparative analysis between traditions, and creative reflection on the theological and pastoral significance of such comparative study. Lecture, discussion, four short reflection papers, one major essay.

A critical exploration of the mystical, liturgical and pastoral theology of Evelyn Underhill, as she develops these in her novels and scholarly writings. Her thought will be examined in light of contemporary issues in spirituality, such as the status of the body, mysticism and social action, the subjectivization of mystical experiences, and the effect of socio-political structures on spirituality. Lectures, discussion, presentation, critical reflection paper.

An exploration of religious experience in various Hindu traditions, within the context of an overview of relevant beliefs and practices. Lecture, discussion, exam and critical reflection papers.