DESCRIPTION: With the medieval city of Orvieto as the backdrop for our
explorations, this course will consider the shape of Medieval and early
Renaissance worship and monastic devotion as modes of spiritual formation. The
music and art of the period will inform our consideration of the spirituality
of the era. Through visits to key historical sites, lectures, readings,
discussions, viewing of local art, and engagement in local liturgies, students
will become familiar with the patterns of prayer that shaped the era's devotion
and continue to provide expression for contemporary people of faith. Topics to
be explored include the shape of the Roman Mass and its theology, the practice
of praying the monastic hours, the place of preaching within worship, the
development of monastic chant and Renaissance sacred music, and Medieval and
Renaissance sculpture and painting. In addition to exploring the sacred sites
within Orvieto and its environs, students will also visit the city of Assisi,
monastic home of Francis and Clare. Working with the instructor will be guest
artist and teacher Christopher Slatoff.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Course objectives are that students will (1) grow in their
understanding of the Renaissance era and its spiritual practices, (2) become
familiarized with the music, art, and spirituality of the period and engage in
the practice of these arts on a basic level, and (3) increase in awareness of
how Renaissance spiritual practices can inform and enrich spiritual life
today.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Christian spiritual practices are critical to the
exercise of faith. Learning the practices of a rich period in Christian history
and experiencing them firsthand will both enrich a person's own spiritual
practice and provide a basis for discussing and teaching such practices in
settings of Christian ministry.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet daily for five days in Orvieto, Italy, for
lecture, reading discussion, and visits to museums, churches, and historic
sites. Following the onsite portion, the course will conclude with a five-week
online component which will lead students into the exploration of additional
reading and viewing materials, threaded online discussions, written
assignments, and preparation for a final written or artistic project.
REQUIRED READING: