DESCRIPTION:

This course will provide an introductory overview of the more important themes and events in the history of the church from the New Testament through Augustine. Students will study the variety of religious movements, the development of pivotal doctrines, the role of specific personalities, and the place of certain charismatic features in the Church as they emerge during this critical period of the Church's history.

This course is designed to foster a love for and encourage an appreciation for the Church, for the faithfulness of those who helped to formulate the Christian tradition as it has been handed down to us, and for the legitimate diversity contained within that one Church. A study of the historical and theological foundations of the Church, including its varied practices, its sacramental character, its creedal confessions, and its doctrinal development should help students understand more fully their own traditions, enable them to understand, believe, and articulate their reasons for holding to their positions, and enrich their ability to discern potential problems by introducing them to similar issues which have risen or been resolved before.

The class will meet two hours, twice a week in a lecture-discussion format.

Bettenson, Henry, ed. Documents of the Christian Church. 2nd ed. New York: Oxford University Press, 1986. Sections on the period through to A.D. 600 only.

Frend, W. H. C. The Rise of Christianity. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1984.

Davis, Lee Donald. The First Seven Ecumenical Councils (325-787): Their History and Theology. Collegeville, MN: Michael Glazier/The Liturgical Press, 1983.

Meredith, Anthony. The Cappadocians. Crestwood, NY: St. Vladimir's Seminary Press, 1995.

Selected documents.

There will be one midterm and a final examination covering the textbooks and lectures together accounting for 70% of the final grade. A five-page paper based upon one of the documents will count for 30% of the final grade.

None.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Church History "a" (CHA).

Yes.