With the exception of THE 210, Medical Moral Theology, all courses at the 200 level or higher require THE 105, Foundations of Theology, or permission of the department chair. Students in the Mid-Degree, Plus Two, and Degree Completion programs are exempt from this requirement.  Unless otherwise noted, all courses are three credits.

THE 105 Foundations of Theology

Inquiry into nature of religion and its relation to other areas of human experience. Role of theology in bringing a religious tradition to reflective awareness. Focus on Christianity, especially its Catholic expression.

THE 200 Christian Approach to Morality

Study of fundamentals of moral theology: concepts of freedom, responsibility, law and conscience are surveyed within context of Catholic theology and natural law tradition.

THE 210 Medical Moral Theology

Investigation of moral problems, which can arise in the area of bioethics. Introductory survey of the basic Christian principles of morality is followed by treatment of various medical moral situations. A natural law methodology is applied throughout the course.

THE 225 Global Issues: The Gospel Perspective

Ethical concerns in war, peace, global and domestic policy, and other social issues. Addresses both Roman Catholic teachings and writings from other religions and cultures. This course fulfills the human diversity graduation requirement.

THE 245 Introduction to Eastern Philosophy and Religion

Exploration of philosophical and religious traditions of Asia. Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, and Daoism will be discussed and compared to Western Traditions (Judeo-Christian Tradition and Ancient Greek Philosophy). Satisfies the Diversity requirement. Cross-listed with PHI 245.

THE 255 Santo Domingo

This course will cover theology and social justice topics as they relate to service in the developing world. This is a service-learning course in which students will apply knowledge and skills acquired during the semester during a week-long immersion experience in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic immediately following the semester. The coursework will explore a theology of liberation for the poor, Catholic social teaching, and advocacy methods. Students will relate the course content to their firsthand experience in the Dominican Republic through journal writing and a final service integration paper. Fulfills Human Diversity requirement.

THE 300 Marriage and Sexuality

Theological study of dogmatic and moral questions concerning human sexuality and marriage in light of anthropology, the scriptures, natural law, traditions, and the understanding of revelation within history.

THE 306 Biblical Studies: Gospel Portrait of Jesus

Examination of the portrayal of Jesus in Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, using tools of historical and literary criticism.

THE 308 Biblical Studies: Old Testament Studies

Examination of selected books of the Old Testament, including representation from Law, Prophets and Writings.

THE 309 Biblical Studies: New Testament Studies

Examination of selected books of the New Testament, with particular emphasis on the Pauline writings.

THE 345 Issues in Historical Theology

An historical study of the principal theological controversies that shaped the development of Christianity. This course is designed as an introduction to theological study for students in the Innovative Degree Programs (Plus Two, Mid-Degree, Degree Completion). Other students must have permission of the instructor.

THE 350 Franciscan Studies

Study of the life and spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, his charisma and its relevance for the contemporary world. Includes theological and philosophical perspectives of other Franciscans. Examines the historical and ecclesial environment of Franciscan Movement and its impact up to the present.

THE 355 Franciscan Pilgrimage to Assisi and Rome

This travel course prepares students for a cultural immersion in Italy where they will participate in an intercollegiate study-pilgrimage to Assisi and Rome, visiting historical and spiritual sites that trace the birth of the Franciscan movement. Prerequisite: THE105; THE 350 recommended. Satisfies the Human Diversity requirement. Additional expenses will be incurred.

THE 364 Mysticism

Study of mysticism focusing on the Christian tradition, but including examination of non-Christian religions as well.

THE 380 Christ and the Church

Study of the various ways in which Christ has been understood by communities of faith. Particular attention is given to the New Testament. The role of the
Church and its relation to Christ is considered, as well as its relation to the modern world.

THE 405 Medieval and Reformation Theological Evolution

An historical study of the doctrinal and ecclesial developments that shaped the medieval and reformation periods. Prerequisite: THE 105 or 345.

THE 420 Worship and Sacraments

Study of the development of the theology of the sacraments. Specific treatment is given to the sacraments of initiation: baptism, confirmation, Eucharist. In addition, attention is also given to the sacraments of reconciliation, matrimony, holy orders, and anointing of the sick.

THE 425 Judaic Studies

In-depth study of the development of Jewish historical, cultural, religious, and political tradition. This course is partly supported by the Jewish Chautauqua Society.

Contact

Corey Harris, Ph.D.

Chair of the Humanities

Francis Hall 245

610.796.1922

corey.harris@alvernia.edu

 

Theology