Sacramental Theology

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Abstract

This subject traces the origins of sacramental theology from its Jewish antecedents through to the New Testament texts and early church. It then considers the rise of sacramental theology proper in the patristic period. Later developments are pursued through historical and liturgical sources, from the medieval Western church and Reformation … For more content click the Read More button below.

This subject traces the origins of sacramental theology from its Jewish antecedents through to the New Testament texts and early church. It then considers the rise of sacramental theology proper in the patristic period. Later developments are pursued through historical and liturgical sources, from the medieval Western church and Reformation to the divergent traditions and practices in contemporary churches. The subject addresses challenges brought to sacramental theology by the ecumenical movement and by liberation, feminist and ecological theology.

Syllabus

The concept of sacrament and its relation to sign, word and sacramentalityBiblical and patristic foundations of sacramental theologyThe development of sacramental theology in the Western church during the Medieval and Reformation periodsChanges in Catholic sacramental theology from the Council of Trent to Vatican IISacramental theology and practice in the post-Reformation … For more content click the Read More button below.

The concept of sacrament and its relation to sign, word and sacramentality
Biblical and patristic foundations of sacramental theology
The development of sacramental theology in the Western church during the Medieval and Reformation periods
Changes in Catholic sacramental theology from the Council of Trent to Vatican II
Sacramental theology and practice in the post-Reformation period, for example, the Anglican Prayer Books, the Roman Missal and Uniting in Worship 2
The meaning and practice of Baptism, Eucharist and Reconciliation
The impact of the ecumenical movement on denominational sacramental theology and practice
Challenges to sacramental theology from liberation, feminist and ecological theologies
Critical sacramental practice in the current context, for example, reconciliation, church abuse, individualism, multiculturalism

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to demonstrate advanced knowledge of key historical developments in sacramental theology;

be able to identify and to articulate the sacramental theology expressed in liturgical texts and their enactment;

be able to discuss and critically evaluate contemporary sacramental theologies and church practices;

be able to give an advanced critical account of the meaning and practice of Baptism, Eucharist and Reconciliation in various contemporary ecclesial traditions;

be able to analyse critically sacramental practice and theology in light of contemporary issues, for example, reconciliation, abuse, ecology, multiculturalism; and

be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including advanced research, writing and communication skills.

Assumed knowledge

THL408, THL409, THL410 and THL460

Enrolment restrictions

Not available to students who have completed THL314 Sacramental Theology (paired subject).

Incompatible