This course focuses on the life, letters and theology of St. Paul alongside the Seven Ecumenical Councils of the Church. Through lectures, Bible studies and group discussions in hotels, on the bus and in archaeological sites the course provides an overview of Paul and the councils with some specific themes in detail. On St. Paul, the course covers the question of which letters are authentic, addresses specific theological concerns in his letters and sets him in his social world and historical context. Questions of how Paul should be interpreted today will also arise. Concerning the councils, the course provides a historical and theological overview of the seven councils outlining the development of Christology and Trinitarian theology, including the theology of icons, across the early centuries of the church from the first Council of Nicaea in 325 to the second in 787. Attempts are made throughout the course to expose the contemporary importance of studying St. Paul and the councils for contemporary theology, faith and church life. In addition, the course also touches on the Seven Churches of Asia with visits to Laodicea, Pergammon, Ephesus and Patmos. Overall, a thorough exposure to early Christian history and theology is made. Throughout the course there are opportunities for group discussion, prayer and Eucharists as well as an immersion into contemporary Turkish culture.

Aims of the course

• To become more familiar with the life, letters and theology of St. Paul.
• To discuss some of the issues Paul faced and appreciate their importance today.
• To become more familiar with the history and theology of the Seven Ecumenical Councils of the Early Church and appreciate their significance today.
• To travel through some of the landscape in which Paul and the early Christians travelled.
• To visit relevant archaeological sites and appreciate their importance.
• To become a community of pilgrims as we travel, pray and study together in Turkey.
• To begin to address how the course will affect our lives and faith back home.