2025-2026 Catalog | Page 384

RS-000
Encountering Sacred Writings
3.00
RS-101
Introduction to the Old Testament
Various religious themes are examined, such as covenant, messianism, eschatology, redemption and prayer. Students are encouraged to appreciate the various writing genres of Old Testament literature, such as its creation stories, prophetic literature, apocalyptic and wisdom motifs expressed in Hebrew poetry.
3.00
RS-102
Introduction to the New Testament
Situating New Testament books within covenantal expectations is established as a foundation. The various genres of New Testament literature are explored, such as gospel writing, letters, and apocalyptic and theological history. Religious motifs from the various genres are selected for deeper analysis, such as justification in the Pauline letters.
RS-105
Life and Meaning of Jesus
A portrait of the historical Jesus provides the foundation for the course. From this basis, various theological doctrines are studied, such as the nature of resurrection, explanations of redemption and salvation and the ecumenical implications of Christological statements.
RS-111
History of Christianity
The course examines the development of Christianity from after the New Testament period until the present century. It will focus upon the major events, persons, and doctrines that have shaped this development and which also explain the current situation of separated churches within Christianity.
RS-112
Sacraments and Spirituality
The relationship between the Christian spiritual life and the sacramental and liturgical life of the Church is examined. The differences between Protestant and Roman Catholic understandings of sacraments are explored for ecumenical implications. The course concludes with the implications of sacramental life for moral decision-making.
RS-115
World Religions
The six major religions of the world, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam and the Chinese religions are examined in a comparative manner. The course focuses on the historical developments of each religion and their respective treatments of common themes, such as sacred literature, moral behavior, salvation motifs and the role of prophetic figures.
RS-120
Contemporary Moral Problems
The basic principles of Christian moral decision-making and their application to current issues are examined. Some contemporary moral issues discussed include sexual behavior, racism, sexism, just war theories, capital punishment, among others.
3.00
3.00
3.00
3.00
3.00
3.00