Catholic Theology in a Secular Age: A Critical Introduction

Module Description:

The purpose of this module is to introduce the student to the foundational concepts of catholic theology as a living tradition with deep roots of intellectual enquiry. There will be an examination of the concept of living tradition as it is used in this context and of the roots of catholic theology in its ecclesial context. Fides quaerens intellectum (Faith seeking understanding) is a fundamental inspiration in the making and remaking of Catholic theology.

At the same time it is recognised that in a secular age, others also seek understanding in theological terms. A study is undertaken of the concept of secularity and post-secularity. There will be an examination of the argument that there is a sort of ‘buried’ theological narrative in western culture and its consequences explored.

Theological method will be introduced, including hermeneutical theory and the debates about the ‘systematicity’ of Catholic theology, which encompasses the efforts to create an intellectual and integrated synthesis. Debates about the ultimate object of theology will also be studied, that is, what, ultimately, is theology about? Is it about texts, or is it about what the texts are about – the mystery of God? To illustrate that it is precisely the later there will be a short introduction to the thought of Thomas Aquinas.

Students will be introduced to current electronic and library resources for theology and will be required to demonstrate their use in preparing their contributions to the seminars.

Indicative Bibliography:

Dulles, A., The Craft of Theology (Dublin: Gill and Macmillan, 1992).
Hart, T.A. and Guthrie, S.R., Faithful performances, Enacting Christian Tradition (London: Ashgate, 2007).
Kerr, F., Thomas Aquinas (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2009).
Kasper,W., An Introduction to Christian Faith (London: Burns and Oates, 1980).
Ratzinger, J., An Introduction to Christianity (London: Burns and Oates, 1969).
Wicks, J., Doing Theology (Mahwah NJ: Paulist Press, 2009).
Meister, C .and Stump, J.B., Christian Thought: A Historical Introduction (London: Routledge, 2010).
Witherup, R.D., Scripture: Dei Verbum. Rediscovering Vatican II (New York: Paulist Press, 2006).

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

• Explain the role of ecclesial roots in the doing of Catholic theology
• Describe and discuss a variety of theological methods and their strengths and weaknesses.
• Analyse the importance of the contemporary context for the doing of theology in the contemporary period.
• Make efficient use of electronic and library resources for theology.

Methods of Assessment and Student Workload:

Annual examination and essay (see §3.6 (b) above, p. 15).