Courses

Examines focused themes in Christian worship through sustained theological, historical, and contextual study. Investigates particular movements, practices, or theological questions within diverse Christian traditions and cultural settings. Emphasizes critical evaluation, constructive theological reflection, and pastoral application in relation to contemporary ecclesial challenges. Specific topics vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Examines advanced dimensions of Christian preaching through sustained theological, biblical, and contextual engagement. Develops deeper understanding of proclamation by integrating biblical interpretation, theological reflection, and pastoral responsibility within diverse ministry contexts. Emphasizes critical analysis, contextual discernment, and growth in homiletical judgment and practice. Specific areas of focus may vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Examines strategies for proclaiming and applying the biblical message within particular ministry and cultural contexts. Students assess their own ministry settings and homiletical traditions, analyze contextual dynamics that shape preaching, and develop biblically faithful sermons that address specific congregational and cultural realities. Attention is given to theological reflection, contextualization, and the formulation of sermon applications that faithfully interpret Scripture while engaging contemporary audiences. Students prepare and deliver sermons demonstrating contextual awareness and pastoral sensitivity.

Advanced study of selected issues in pastoral ministry. Topics may include pastoral leadership, congregational health, ministry formation, spiritual care, conflict engagement, ecclesial identity, or contextual ministry practice. Emphasis is placed on theological reflection, critical analysis, and integrative ministry leadership. Topics vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Advanced study of homiletical theory and practice. This course explores specialized approaches to preaching, including theological method, rhetorical strategy, cultural engagement, and genre-specific proclamation. Students refine their theological depth, exegetical integration, and pastoral voice in preaching for diverse ministry contexts. Emphases vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

Advanced theological and interdisciplinary research in Christian worship with sustained attention to liturgical theology, ecclesiology, culture, and formation. Examines primary sources, contemporary scholarship, and diverse global practices. Specific themes may vary by semester. Repeatable for credit with different focus.

An introduction to the major writings of Sacred Scripture, with particular attention given to the narrative of salvation, and to the major themes and emphases of the individual texts. Emphasis is placed on a distinctively Catholic approach to reading scripture and its role in Christian belief and practice.

An engagement with the central doctrines and disciplines of Christianity as articulated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Students will consider an in-depth exposition of the traditional teachings of the Church as handed down in the Nicene Creed, and how these core beliefs shape the central practices of Christian life such as the sacraments, charitable living, and prayer.

Who is Jesus Christ? What is the Bible? What does Christianity believe and how is it relevant to my life today? These are the broad, overarching questions students will investigate in this course. Students will be able to explain how the centrality of the Gospel of Christ relates to how Christians have understood the Bible and Christian theology. This course provides foundational concepts that students will be able to apply to the more complex issues encountered in RELS 111 and RELS 112.