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THL216 Christian Spirituality (8)

Abstract

This subject introduces students to the history of Christian spiritual traditions, and considers how those traditions are related to the contemporary interest in spirituality. It focuses particularly on Western spiritual traditions, including the desert fathers and mothers, the monastic and mendicant traditions, Reformation spiritualities and mysticism. Orthodox, Pentecostal and further contemporary directions in spirituality are considered briefly. The subject also addresses questions concerning the relationship between spirituality and Christian doctrine, interfaith understanding, feminism and theologies of the body. In addition, the subject provides students with the opportunity to encounter key Christian spiritual disciplines or practices.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
OnlineCanberra Campus
On CampusCanberra Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: THL216
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Theology

Assumed Knowledge

THL111

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of the concept of specifically Christian spirituality;
  • be able to identify major elements in the history of Christian spiritual traditions;
  • be able to demonstrate a deeper understanding and critical appreciation of one strand of the Christian spiritual tradition;
  • be able to appreciate the significance of the relationship between spirituality and theological understanding;
  • be able to reflect critically on their own spiritualty and practice; and
  • be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including research, writing and communication skills.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • Part I: What is Christian spirituality?: Spirituality in contemporary context - Australia and elsewhere; Spirituality in the Christian tradition.
  • Part II: Historical movements: The desert fathers and mothers; Monastic paradigms; Mendicant traditions; Reformation spiritualities; Mystical traditions; Orthodoxy and Pentecostalism; Further contemporary directions.
  • Part III: Spirituality in Dialogue: Spirituality and Christian doctrine; Spirituality in an interfaith context; Spirituality and feminism; Spirituality and everyday life.

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The information contained in the 2017 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 25 August 2017. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.