Department Chair: William Cahoy  [Top]

Department Faculty: Timothy Backous OSB, Charles Bobertz, Alan Bouley OSB, William Cahoy, Richard Chiola, Martin Connell, Alberic Culhane OSB, Barry Cytron, Daniel Durken OSB, Bernard Evans, Daniel Finn, Eric Hollas OSB, Jeffrey Kaster, Roger Kasprick OSB, Katherine Kraft OSB, Michael Kwatera OSB, Dale Launderville OSB, John Merkle, Michael Patella OSB, Mary Reuter OSB, Helen Rolfson OSF, Anthony Ruff OSB, Kevin Seasoltz OSB,Vincent Smiles, Luke Steiner OSB, Columba Stewart OSB, Regina Wolfe, Susan Wood SCL

Rooted in a 1,500 year old Benedictine tradition, the department of theology offers courses which, for the most part, focus on various aspects of the Christian faith. Complementing the Roman Catholic character of the department, the offerings include studies in other Christian traditions, Judaism and other religions of the world. Through these courses, students can explore the perennial questions about the reality of God, the meaning of human existence and the relationship between God, humanity and the world.

Graduates with a major in theology have entered a wide variety of graduate schools and careers. Some of these, such as graduate programs in liturgy, pastoral ministry and scripture, and careers in religious education, pastoral ministry and church administration, have a direct link to college work in theology. Graduates have also found that their theology major has prepared them well for other graduate programs and careers such as journalism, languages, law and politics.

The theology department offers concentrations in theological studies, theology/secondary education, religious education and pastoral ministry.

36 credits in theology (in addition to THEO 180) distributed according to the following: (1) one 4-credit course is required in each of the following areas: Old Testament, New Testament, church history, doctrinal theology, liturgy, moral theology and a course either in Judaic studies or religions of the world; and (2) 8 additional credits as theology electives. Of these credits, 32 must be upper division.

The requirements are the same as for the concentration in theological studies, except that the number of credits required in theology electives is reduced to 4. This reduces the total credits which are required for the concentration.

In addition, the student must complete a minor in secondary education. See the education department listing for the minor requirements.

32 credits in theology (not including THEO 180) distributed according to the following: (1) one 4-credit course is required in each of the following areas: Old Testament, New Testament, church history, doctrinal theology, liturgy, moral theology; (2) RLED 380; (3) 4 additional credits as theology electives. Of these credits, 28 must be upper division. In addition, a 10-16 credit internship (RLED 399) is required.

Education department requirements include: EDUC 110, 310, EDUC 390 Human Relations, and either Elementary Catechist Formation (JT) or EDUC 343.

32 credits in theology (not including THEO 180) distributed according to the following: (1) one 4-credit course is required in each of the following areas: Old Testament, New Testament, church history, doctrinal theology, liturgy, moral theology; (2) PTHM 380; (3) 4 other elective credits in pastoral ministry. Of these credits, 28 must be upper division.

In addition, a 10-16 credit internship (PTHM 399) is required.

Supporting requirements include either (1) PSYC 390 (with prerequisite 111) or (2) EDUC 310 (with prerequisites EDUC 110 or 201; or permission of the Instructor)

16 credits in theology (in addition to THEO 180). Of these credits, 12 must be upper division.

THEO 180 The Christian Tradition. (4)   [Top]

An introduction to the discipline of Christian theology with a substantial focus on select themes and texts of the Christian Scriptures, such as creation, covenant, kingdom, prophets, a gospel and New Testament letters. Attention is also given to the method of theological study and some development of the Christian tradition since biblical times.

301 Old Testament Theology. (4)  [Top]

A survey of the writings that are sacred to both the Jewish and Christian traditions, this course will examine the three parts of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament (Law, Prophets and Writings). The various types of literature of which the Old Testament is composed, e.g., narrative, law, prophetic oracle and poetry, will be analyzed according to both traditional and contemporary techniques of biblical interpretation. Special attention will be paid to theological themes, e.g., God, creation, redemption, election and messianism.

302 New Testament Theology. (4)  [Top]

The course will provide a general historical and theological overview of the major New Testament writings. In addition to the study of selected portions of the Gospels, Acts, Pauline letters and other New Testament writings, this course will address various New Testament genre such as apocalyptic, pastoral, homiletic and liturgical literature.

310 The Beginnings of Israel: Pentateuch. (4)  [Top]

A study of the Israelites’ encounter with God at the time of their liberation from Egyptian slavery and their subsequent reflection upon God’s special relationship with them and their ancestors from the time of creation until their entry into the Promised Land. Emphasis upon Genesis, Exodus and Deuteronomy.

313 The Prophets of Israel. (4)  [Top]

A study of prophetic messengers sent by God to challenge the Israelite people to be faithful to the covenant and to promote justice in the society of their time. Selected prophetic writings.

314 Paul and His Letters. (4)  [Top]

An historical and theological study of the genuine letters of Paul, the earliest New Testament writer, as he faced the problems of the development of early Christian communities. A survey of Paul’s life and thoughts as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles and other writings will be studied.

315 Jesus and the Gospels. (4)  [Top]

A study of the origins of the Gospels and the meaning of the teachings and deeds of Jesus as presented in the writings of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

390 Topics in Scripture. (4)  [Top]

Topics and writings selected from the Bible. Descriptions and titles of topics and/or writings will be listed in the official class schedule. May be repeated for credit.

301 The Rise of Christianity. (4)   [Top]

From the origin of the church in the Mediterranean to the flowering of the medieval western church in the 12th century.

302 Church in an Age of Reform. (4)   [Top]

From the unity of medieval Christianity to the formation of the 16th century churches of the Reformation.

308 American Catholic Experience. (4)  [Top]

An historical-theological survey of American Catholicism from pre-colonial times to the present, with attention to the origins, the personalities, the struggles and the possibilities of the American Catholic Experience. The analytical thrust of the course focuses on the Catholic community’s ability to engage the great religious/theological questions of the last three centuries, as well as its potential to address the critical religious issues of a new century and a new millennium.

310 Religion in America. (4)  [Top]

An ecumenical and interpretive study of the European roots of American churches and religious groups, and their development in the United States.

312 Early Christianity. (4)  [Top]

The emerging church, its institutions and thought, theology and spirituality as reflected in early Christian literature from the 1st to the 6th century.

314 History of Judaism. (4)  [Top]

This course promotes an understanding and appreciation for the dynamism of Judaism and the Jewish people. It is a survey of the history of the Jewish people and an analysis of the development of Judaism from biblical to modern times.

316 Christianity in Relation to Judaism. (4)  [Top]

This course explores the emergence of Christianity within and from Judaism, the de-Judaization of Christianity, traditional Christian teaching about Judaism, anti-Jewish formulations of Christian faith, the contemporary Christian affirmations of Judaism’s abiding validity, and the implications of this new affirmation for Christian self-understanding and for Christian-Jewish relations.

320 The Benedictine Tradition. (4)

The origins of monasticism and its influence on the development of Christianity within Western culture. The origins and history of the Saint John’s and/or Saint Benedict’s monasteries.

362 Religions of the World. (4)  [Top]

A study of religions of the world other than Christianity. Special attention is given to the history, sacred writings, beliefs and practices of different religious traditions. The relationship of major religions to Christianity is considered.

390 Topics in Historical Theology Studies. (4)  [Top]

Course title and description will be listed in the official class schedule. May be repeated for credit.

Doctrinal Theology  [Top]

310 Philosophy and Theology I: the Classical Period to the Enlightenment. (4)  [Top]

The method, content and status of theological reasoning has always been influenced by the wider intellectual world in which it operates. This course will examine the nature of that influence by surveying major thinkers and developments in the history of Western thought that have played a formative role in Christian theology from the early classical assumptions to the Enlightenment period.

311 Philosophy and Theology II: the Modern Era. (4)  [Top]

The method, content and status of theological reasoning has always been influenced by the wider intellectual world in which it operates. This course will examine the nature of that influence by surveying major thinkers and themes of the modern era that have shaped the course of theology in the 19th and 20th centuries.

312 The Church Today. (4)  [Top]

Models for understanding the church today, its leadership structures, its tasks in society, its ecumenical endeavors; Vatican Council II as a pivotal event in the Roman Catholic Church.

313 The Reality of God. (4)  [Top]

A study of the meaning of the existence, nature, attributes, revelation and presence of God according to the biblical traditions, with particular attention to the question of the grounds for monotheistic faith and trinitarian doctrine.

314 Belief and Unbelief. (4)  [Top]

Problems arising from the relation of faith to reason, modern science and authority. Varieties of faith and atheism.

The development of the Christian understanding of the person and meaning of Jesus in the witness of the New Testament writers, in the proclamation of the church’s faith in teaching and worship and in the fullness of the human experience over time.

320 Studies in Jewish Thought. (4)   [Top]

An exploration of Jewish thought from biblical times to the present, unified around three principal foci: God, Torah (Covenant) and the people Israel.

322 Contemporary Jewish Theology. (4)  [Top]

This course explores the theological perspectives of leading contemporary Jewish thinkers, particularly on topics central to traditional Judaism. It compares their view to classical Jewish teachings and it studies the impact of modernity and 20th-century events and movements on their thinking.

325 Christian Spirituality. (4)  [Top]

A study of the Christian tradition of spirituality as reflected by some classic and contemporary Christian writers, with particular focus on beliefs (such as Trinity, Christ, grace, redemption, death and resurrection), and their influence on Christian living today. The course also includes a consideration of elements of Christian formation (such as prayer, reading, solitude, communal and personal efforts, asceticism and social responsibility).

330 Theology and the Environment. (4)  [Top]

The purpose of this course is to examine the contributions of major religious traditions to our understanding of the environment. The course explores what these traditions have to say about humankind’s relationship to the rest of creation, and how that relationship should be lived at this time. Among the religious traditions surveyed in this course are Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity and certain aspects of Native American spirituality. Particular attention will be directed toward Christianity and the environment, examining how different Christian theologies have or have not addressed the question of our relationship to creation.

335 Liberation: a Judeo-Christian Theme. (4)  [Top]

The purpose of this course is to study liberation in its Judeo-Christian context. Key liberation episodes from scripture and tradition will be studied. The course will focus on one topic throughout the semester (for example, liberation related to the Third World, liberation of women, etc.).

340 Thinking Theologically. (4)  [Top]

The aim of this introduction to systematic theology is twofold: to introduce students to theological discourse through a critical reading of theological texts and to present an overview of topics within systematic theology so that the student will have both an introductory knowledge of fundamental theological issues and a framework in which to place more specialized courses.

390 Topics in Doctrinal Theology. (4)  [Top]

Course title and description will be listed in the official class schedule. Topics will be drawn from traditional and contemporary themes and issues. May be repeated for credit.

311 Moral Theology. (4)  [Top]

Principles of ethical living developing from the scriptures, church traditions and human experience. Presentation of contemporary trends and problems.

312 Christian Freedom and Personality. (4)  [Top]

Theology of personal freedom and conscience, and the integration of freedom and conscience with the development of persons in their relationship with God and other human beings.

313 Theology of Sexuality and Marriage. (4)  [Top]

A study of the biblical and theological foundation of human sexuality, the Christian understanding of the sacrament of marriage, and the ways in which Christian tradition and church teaching apply to contemporary issues in sexuality.

390 Topics in Moral Theology. (4)   [Top]

Course title and description will be listed in the official class schedule. May be repeated for credit.

311 Christian Worship. (4)  [Top]

An overview of the origin, development and cultural aspects of Christian worship rooted in symbols, myths and rituals. The church’s celebration of the mystery of Christ in word and sacrament. The meaning and rhythm of Sunday, feasts and seasons.

312 Initiation and Eucharist. (4)   [Top]

The rites of initiation (baptism, confirmation and first eucharist) and the eucharist as the primary sacraments in the church: their anthropological foundations, historical evolution, contemporary forms and pastoral effectiveness.

390 Topics in Liturgical Studies. (4)  [Top]

Course title and description will be listed in the official class schedule. May be repeated for credit.

380 Development of Religious Identity. (4)  [Top]

Psychological development and characteristics of the child and adolescent in relationship with faith-life today. A study of formation of conscience in the light of new developments in psychology.

390 Topics in Religious Education. (4)  [Top]

Course title and description will be listed in the official class schedule. May be repeated for credit.

399 Internship. (10-16)  [Top]

Supervised practicum for the theology major concentrating in religious education.

380 Introduction to Pastoral Ministry. (4)  [Top]

An introduction to the theology and spirituality of pastoral ministry. This course will also explore pastoral leadership and the structural components of parish life and ministry. Fall.

382 Youth Ministry. (2)  [Top]

This course will focus on the theology and practice of parish youth ministry. We will explore the philosophical and theological foundations of youth ministry. Youth ministry skills addressed will include relational ministry, needs assessment and lesson planning. Spring, even years.

383 Parish Catechesis (2)  [Top]

A study of catechetical theory as well as specific methodologies for catechesis for children, youth and adults. This course will be especially helpful to those interested in pastoral ministry and those planning to teach or coordinate faith formation programs for children, youth and/or adults. Spring, odd years.

384 Marriage and Family (1)  [Top]

This is an introductory course on the theology of Christian marriage and families. The topics explored will include the history of Christian marriage, mutuality, sexuality, sacramentality and prayer. This course will also focus on pastoral approaches within pre-marriage and family ministry. Spring, even years.

385 Retreat Work (1)  [Top]

This course will focus on the theology and practice of retreat ministry. Students will create a retreat in this course. Special attention will be given to "religious experiences" within retreat ministry settings. Spring, odd years.

386 Social Concerns. (1)  [Top]

A study of the various special groups within a parish (such as the elderly, divorced, handicapped, chemically dependent) and the skills needed in ministering to them. Spring, even years.

387 Ministry to the Sick and Dying. (1)  [Top]

An investigation into insights and issues surrounding the process of pastoral ministry to the sick and dying. How does one talk to and care for a dying person within a pastoral ministry setting? Offered every other spring (odd years).

390 Topics in Pastoral Theology/Ministry. (1-4)  [Top]

Course titles and descriptions will be listed in the official class schedule. May be repeated for credit.

399 Internship. (10-16)  [Top]

Supervised practicum for the theology major concentrating in pastoral ministry.

Theology  [Top]

176 January Term Topics. (0-4)

Study at the introductory level of a special topic not ordinarily offered during the semesters. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

177 January Term Core Topics. (0-4)   [Top]

Study at the introductory level of a special topic not ordinarily offered during the semesters. Designed to fulfill core disciplinary requirement. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

271 Individual Learning Project. (1-4)  [Top]

Supervised reading or research at the lower-division level. Permission of department chair required. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. Not available to first-year students.

276 January Term Topics. (0-4)  [Top]

Study of a special topic not ordinarily offered during the semesters. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

277 January Term Core Topics. (0-4)   [Top]

Study of a special topic not ordinarily offered during the semesters. Designed to fulfill core disciplinary requirement. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

371 Individual Learning Project. (1-4)  [Top]

Supervised reading or research at the upper-division level. Permission of department chair and completion and/or concurrent registration of 12 credits within the department required. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. Not available to first-year students.

375 Supervised Study. (0-4)  [Top]

Full-time learning experience during the January Term done under the direction of a faculty moderator, often in conjunction with an off-campus supervisor. Requires permission of instructor. Not available to first-year students.

376 January Term Topics. (0-4)  [Top]

Study at the upper-division level of a special topic not ordinarily offered during the semesters. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

377 January Term Core Topics. (0-4)   [Top]

Study at the upper-division level of a special topic not ordinarily offered during the semesters. Designed to fulfill core disciplinary requirement. Consult department for applicability towards major requirements. May be repeated for credit when topics vary.

398 Honors Senior Essay, Research or Creative Project. (4)  [Top]

Required for graduation with "All-College Honors" and "Departmental Distinction in Theology." Prerequisite: HONR 396 and approval of the department chair and director of the honors program. For further information see HONR 398.

*Richard Chiola. BA., Cardinal Glennon College, 1968; M. Div., Kenrick Theological Seminary, 1974; MA., St. Louis University, 1983; Ph.D., St. Louis University, 1991.

Martin Connell. BA., St. Charles Seminary, 1983; MA., Villanova University, 1988; MA., University of Notre Dame, 1990; Ph.D. University of Notre Dame, 1995.

Anthony Ruff OSB. BA., St. John’s University, MN., 1986; M. Div., 1993; STM., Tale Divinity School, 1994; Th.D. candidate, University of Graz, Austria.