The Making of Catholic Theology in the Modern Period
| Theme: | Traditioning |
| ECTS: | 5 |
| Module Code: | JS12 |
| Contact Hours | 22 |
| Mode of Delivery | 16 lectures and 6 seminars |
| Lecturer: | Dr Cornelius Casey |
Module Description:
This module returns to the themes studied in the first historical module of the course. In the light of a greater knowledge of the tradition gained through the historical modules it seeks a deeper understanding of how theology is being formed in the modern period.
In this reprise particular attention is given to the formulation at Vatican II of the document ‘Gaudium et Spes’, (‘The Church in the Modern World’) which is considered its most innovative work. The debates that led to the text will be given close analysis.
In the decades of the modern period a new theological movement termed ‘Liberation theology’ began mainly in South America, taking inspiration from the emphasis on the importance for theology of ‘reading the signs of the time’ as this was articulated in ‘Gaudium et Spes’. Several strands of this movement followed. The module will study these developments, as well as the tensions and debates that ensued.
Current debates on whether the work of the Second Vatican Council was a movement of continuity or discontinuity within the Catholic tradition of theology will be examined.
Indicative Bibliography:
Bulman, R. F. and Parella., F. J. (ed.), From Trent to Vatican II: Historical and Theological Investigations (New York: Oxford University Press, 2006).
Grenz, S.J. and Olson, R., Twentieth Century Theology (Illinois: Intervarsity Press, Illinois, 1992).
Ivereigh, A. (ed.), Unfinished Business: The Church Forty Years after Vatican II (New York:Continuum, 2003).
Schreiter R., The New Catholicity (Maryknoll, New York:Orbis, 1999).
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
- Appraise the accuracy and relevance of the reading of the ‘signs of the times’ in the’ Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World’ issued by the Second Vatican Council.
- Evaluate current debates about whether Vatican II represents continuity or discontinuity with the deeper tradition.
- Assess the theological authenticity of the Liberation theology movement as it developed in Brazil in the 1970’s and 1980’s.
- Apply skills of historical analysis to debates about the major challenges for theology in this globalised age.
Methods of Assessment and Student Workload:
Continually assessed.