Historical Theology

HT 611 - Patrology (3)

This is an introductory course to the study of the Fathers of the Church, both East and West. Their points of view, culture, historical events, church life that fashioned their doctrines will be discussed in light of their writings. Particular emphasis will be placed on the monastic tradition which fashioned the living theology, mysticism and asceticism of these Churches. Present day emphasis on ecumenism and Church unity will be discussed in light of patristic doctrine and vision.

HT 737 - Theology and Holiness (3)

How does theology lead to holiness?  Is holiness an integral part of the nature and method of theology?  The course will investigate the approaches and answers to these questions in Bonaventure and Thomas Aquinas, as the two great masters of the Scholastic synthesis.  Special attention will be paid to their sources (both medieval and patristic).  Themes to be dealt with include: the definition of holiness, theology and prayer, religious cognition, the spiritual senses, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the saint as theologian, the relation of theology to faith and charity, the sanctification of the intellect, the meaning of sacra doctrina, and theology as a spiritual discipline.

HT 762 - Resurrection Themes in the Greek Fathers [3]

From the resurrection-event directly spring, in their uniqueness, Christian faith, Christian preaching, Christian theology, Christian worship and Christian ethics.  The focus on these topics will be studied in the teaching of the Greek Fathers, and the effect they have had in the above listed areas.  Topics to be reflected upon and studied in the Greek Fathers will be:  life and death in the Risen Christ; understanding everlasting life; is hell conquered?; exaltation and glorification; transformation through union; Eucharist and the Holy Spirit; vengeance and victory.  Selections from the pertinent Greek Fathers will be studied in their historical content and meaning for today.