Introduction to Moral Theology for Teachers (DT8630Z)

Content

This unit has a threefold purpose. First, drawing on scripture and Catholic theological tradition, the aim is to provide a framework for understanding the nature and place of moral decision making in Christian living. It explores a Christian understanding of the human person as fundamental to Christian moral life, moral conscience, and its formation. Second, it provides an introduction to Catholic social teaching as a basis for exploring the Christian notions of justice and mercy in the world. Finally, it requires students to critically examine the meaning of Christian morality, sources of moral knowledge, human freedom, sin and redemption, conscience formation, the meaning and function of church authority, and strategies for making moral decisions.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

This is the third/fourth unit in the CTC & YTU program of units for the Graduate Certificate in Teaching Religious Education.

Pedagogy

Online classes consist of interactive lectures. The asynchronous learning consists of guided learning activities.

Indicative Bibliography

• Astorga, Christina A. Catholic Moral Theology and Social Ethics: A New Method. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2014.
• Curran, Charles (ed.). Conscience: Readings in Moral Theology. No 14. New York: Paulist Press, 2004.
• Gula, Richard. The Way of Goodness and Holiness: A Spirituality for Pastoral Ministers. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2011.
• Kammer, Fred. Doing Faith Justice: An Introduction to Catholic Social Thought and Action. 4th edition. Mahwah, NJ: Paulist Press, 2023.
• Kasper, Walter. Mercy: The Essence of the Gospel and the Key to Christian Life. New York: Paulist Press, 2014.
• Keenan, James F. The Moral Life: Eight Lectures. Washington, DC: Georgetown University Press, 2024.
• Keenan, James F. The Works of Mercy: The Heart of Catholicism. London and Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2017.
• Lamoureux, Patricia, and Paul J. Waddell. The Christian Moral Life: Faithful Discipleship for a Global Society. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2010.
• O’Neil, Kevin, and Peter Black. The Essential Moral Handbook: A Guide to Catholic Living. Revised edition. Liguori: Liguori, 2006.
• Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church. Rome: Vatican, 2004.

Assessment