DESCRIPTION: This course focuses on the spiritual understanding and practices
of six key figures drawn from the Medieval and Catholic Reformation era. Their
stories will be set in the context of the medieval understanding of liturgy and
spirituality. In particular, the tension between church-based spirituality (the
Eucharist) and experiential spirituality (mystical experience) will be
examined. These six figures are Hildegard of Bingen, Francis of Assisi, Clare
of Assisi, Catherine of Siena, Ignatius of Loyola, and Teresa of Ávila.
Judy Peace will serve as guest lecturer on the women mystics. Offered in
Orvieto, Italy, the course will include trips to Assisi and Siena as well as
exploration of the town of Orvieto, in particular its cathedral.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will have (1) come to
understand the core concepts of spirituality on the part of six key figures in
the Medieval and Catholic Reformation era set in their historical and
theological context; (2) explored various spiritual practices from these
individuals and the traditions they inspired (including praying the monastic
hours); (3) visited Assisi, Siena, and Orvieto, Italy, and so developed a
first-hand understanding of several of these traditions; and (4) learned how to
lead others in various spiritual practices.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Given the current fascination with spirituality, there
is renewed interest in exploring spiritual traditions other than one's own. The
goal is not just to understand better such traditions but to engage in the
spiritual practices of these traditions in such a way as to develop an
understanding of the personal and communal value of these practices.
COURSE FORMAT: A mixture of lecture, discussion, small groups, engagement in
spiritual practices, trips to various sites, and interactive dialogue. This
course is taught in conjunction with TC519 Medieval Art and Theology, in which
students must also be enrolled as either a credit student or an auditor.
REQUIRED READING: Read 1000 pages from the following books: