Theology II

This course introduces students to the practice of theology through exploring some of the major themes in systematic theology: the doctrine of the Holy Spirit (Pneumatology), the doctrine of the Church (Ecclesiology), the doctrine of salvation (Soteriology), and the doctrine of the “Last Things” (Eschatology). Theology, as understood in this course, is a disciplined reflection …
View course details “Theology II”

History of Christianity II

This survey course invites students to encounter the story of Christianity from the Protestant Reformation (beginning in 1517) to the end of the twentieth century. It highlights the experiences of Christian communities in the ‘Old World’ (Asia, Africa, and Europe) and the ‘New World’ (the Americas and Oceania) as they move through the major turning …
View course details “History of Christianity II”

Early and Medieval Christian Spirituality

In this course, students will learn the origins of Christian monastic, mendicant, and mystical spiritualities by immersing themselves in the pre-Reformation literature and spiritual practices of the Desert Fathers and Mothers, the Benedictines, the Cistercians, the Celtic Christians, the Franciscans, and the Medieval English Mystics. By doing so, students will recover spiritual nourishment and riches …
View course details “Early and Medieval Christian Spirituality”

Beyond Empire: Rethinking the History of Global Christianity

Christianity was a demonstrably global faith (with its center of gravity in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East) before it became a predominantly Western religion (c.1500). Now, after roughly five centuries, it has once again reemerged as a hugely non-Western phenomenon. A full historical account reveals a faith that is inherently global because it is …
View course details “Beyond Empire: Rethinking the History of Global Christianity”

Religion at Ground Zero

Where was God when this happened?! How can religious people commit such atrocities?! What can a religious leader say after such a horrendous event?! This course explores such questions by analyzing theological responses to human tragedy and cultural shock. Discussion will attend to issues of theodicy, religious terrorism and natural disasters through the perspectives of …
View course details “Religion at Ground Zero”

Trauma and Colonialism: Transformational Teachings

Trauma research clearly outlines the impact of colonialism on First Nations peoples of North America. This course will examine the neurobiology of trauma and the spiritual aspect of colonialism as a curse. The unity of ancestral law and the teachings of Christ are a solid resource for healing, wholeness and wellness.

Do Black Lives Matter to God? A Theological Exploration of Evil, Suffering, Resistance, and Divine Accountability

With Naomi Washington-Leapheart This retreat asks the question: If God is benevolent, just, and powerful, how can (does) evil persist in the lives of Black people living in the United States? In this retreat that will include both you and students from Rev. Naomi’s Villanova religious studies class by the same name, we will explore …
View course details “Do Black Lives Matter to God? A Theological Exploration of Evil, Suffering, Resistance, and Divine Accountability”