THL544 Theology and Spirituality in Contemporary Engagement (16)

This subject considers, at an advanced level, the changing fortunes of spirituality and its relationship with theology. Recently we have seen a significant movement in theology to reintegrate spirituality and theology. A growing body of contemporary theology has emerged from this reintegration. Paradoxically this has coincided with a trend in Western cultures to untether spirituality from religion. This subject addresses: the historical separation of theology and spirituality; the origins and nature of Christian mysticism; questions of experience and theological knowing; spiritual texts and hermeneutical issues; and the integration of theology and spirituality.

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2021.

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Theology

Enrolment Restrictions

Master of Theology and Bachelor of Theology (Honours) students only.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the historical roots of the separation of theology and spirituality
  • be able to discuss critically the origins and nature of Christian mysticism
  • be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of and engagement with contemporary issues relating to theology and spirituality
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the epistemological and hermeneutical issues relating to spiritual and/or mystical experience and spiritual and/or mystical texts
  • be able to evaluate critically historical and contemporary theological texts which integrate theology and spirituality
  • be able to demonstrate a capacity for theological reasoning at an advanced level
  • be able to demonstrate research and communication skills in the study of systematic theology at an advanced level

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Contemporary understandings of spirituality
  • Historical separation of theology and spirituality
  • Origins and nature of Christian mysticism
  • Experience and theological knowing
  • Spiritual texts and hermeneutical issues
  • Integrating theology and spirituality: Historical and contemporary case studies

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of THL544 in Session 2 2020. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Seminar paper
40
2
Major essay
60

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2021. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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