El curso “introducción al catolicismo” presenta a los estudiantes una visión general y completa de las enseñanzas de la fe católica. Ofrece a una base teológica para su admisión en sus futuros cursos de teología. Además de basarse en los principios básicos de la fe que se ofrecen en el Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica, el curso tiene como objetivo preparar para el futuro servicio Ministerial, y sobre todo para la predicación.
An introduction to the historical context and theology of the ecumenical movement. References will be made to the teaching of the Magisterium, significant achievements in ecumenical dialogue, prospects for future achievements, and the individual participant’s contributions to ecumenism. Exposure to the rich variety of Christian ecclesial communities and traditions and world religions will be included.
A comprehensive study of the theology and rites for administering the Sacraments. The course examines biblical foundations for each sacrament, the way that the Church has understood and practiced its life of prayer and sanctification throughout history using the sacraments. It focuses on the way that the Church currently celebrates the Sacraments. Preparation for diaconal ministry is achieved through an understanding of the developmental history of each sacrament and a study of the liturgical texts
The Son of God became human while remaining divine. He suffered death on the cross to redeem humanity and rose from the dead in glory. The early Church divided over the question of who was and who is Jesus. The early Councils proclaimed doctrine held to this day, and the Church Fathers wrote cogently about Him. The course addresses the fundamental questions about Jesus and reviews the heresies about Jesus that threatened and continue to threaten the Church. The significance of the person of Jesus Christ in the modern world and His redeeming actions place Him at the core of faith.
Within the framework of systematic theology, ecclesiology examines the nature of the church and its emerging challenges. This course considers both classic insights and new directions in ecclesiology, including reflections on the nature and exercise of ministry in the church. Central to the course is a critical examination of two documents of the Second Vatican Council: The Dogmatic Constitution on the Church (Lumen gentium) and The Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World (Gaudium et spes). In many respects, the entire course is an extended dialogue with these two foundational documents.
The course examines how humanity knows that God exists and how God is revealed in the world and Scripture. The study of creation, life, and the purpose of human life offers important insights into the mind and the plan of God, including the fall and redemption of humanity. God sent the Son to redeem humanity. How does this act of love on the part of the Father and then of the Son in embracing the cross reveal more about God? Early in its history, the Church addressed fundamental theological questions, and through centuries of debate and decision developed basic Magisterium teachings that are reflected in today’s ecclesiology and liturgy.
The relationship between philosophy and Christian theology to develop a better understanding of theology. What influence have key philosophers exerted through the centuries in shaping Christian theology in both its understandings and forms of expression? Included are the ancient philosophers and a selection of philosophies from early Christian times to postmodernism. The Directory emphasizes the importance of philosophy in understanding the major doctrines of the Church and recognizes that knowledge of philosophy aids in understanding theology.
The Introduction to Catholicism course presents students with a comprehensive overview of the teachings of the Roman Catholic faith. It offers students a theological foundation. As well as building on the basic tenets of the faith offered in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the course aims to empower students for future catechetical and ministerial service.