Introducing Catholic Theology (CT8100C)

Content

This unit introduces students to the meaning, purpose, methods and content of theology in the Catholic tradition. It examines those elements which together constitute a balanced and comprehensive engagement in the search for a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. The unit will consider several theological themes. Particular attention will be given to the Second Vatican Council's understanding of revelation, faith, scripture, tradition, and the teaching office of the Church. The unit offers students the opportunity to reflect theologically on the Christian faith and to apply the theological reflection to the Church's mission in the Australian multi-religious and non-religious context.

Learning outcomes

Pedagogy

The pedagogical approaches in this unit include interactive-mode lectures, peer discussion, exploratory workshops, and electronic resources for further study.

Indicative Bibliography

• Bevans, Stephan B. An Introduction to Theology in Global Perspective. Theology in Global Perspective. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2009. https://divinity.idm.oclc.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=1761108&site=eds-live&ebv=EK&ppid=Page-__-43
• Clifford, Catherine E., and Massimo Faggioli, eds. The Oxford Handbook of Vatican II. Oxford Handbooks Online. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2023. https://doi-org.divinity.idm.oclc.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780198813903.001.0001
• Gaillardetz, Richard R. By What Authority? A Primer on Scripture, the Magisterium, and the Sense of the Faithful. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2003.
• International Theological Commission. “Theology Today: Perspectives, Principles and Criteria.” Origins 41, no. 40 (15 March 2012): 641–661.
• Johnson, Luke T. The Creed: What Christians Believe and Why It Matters. New York: Doubleday, 2003.
• Lennan, Richard, ed. An Introduction to Catholic Theology. New York: Paulist, 1998.
• Nichols, Aidan. The Shape of Catholic Theology: An Introduction to its Sources, Principles, and History. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 1991.
• O’Collins, Gerald. Rethinking Fundamental Theology: Towards a New Fundamental Theology. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2011.
• Rausch, Thomas P. Systematic Theology: A Roman Catholic Approach. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2016.
• Schneiders, Sandra M. The Revelatory Text: Interpreting the New Testament as Sacred Scripture. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 1999.

Assessment