Religious Studies Course Descriptions

RS 156 Introduction to Sacred Scriptures II (3 cr)
Classes examine the Old Testament, its structure, development and theological content. As well as touching on scriptural analysis and exegesis, the course offers historical and geographical information about the peoples mentioned in the sacred texts. Students are helped to read the texts in the light of Christ. In this way they better understand and appreciate the role of the Old Testament in Christianity.

RS 178 and RS 180 Christian Spirituality I and II (6 cr)
This course studies the nature, characteristics and fundamental principles of what is called the “spiritual life.” It addresses life as a vocation, with particular focus given to the evangelical counsels, especially in the context of the consecrated vocation.

RS 362 Sacraments (3 cr)
This course explores the nature and celebration of the seven sacraments, their historical development and their foundation in Christ. It examines the nature of external signs and their efficaciousness.

RS 370 Fundamental Theology (3 cr)
This course studies the basic dogmas of Christianity regarding the phenomenon of faith, the divine inspiration of Scripture and Tradition, and the revelation of Jesus Christ.

RS 378 and RS 380 Christian Creed I and II (6 cr)
Students comprehensively examine the basic tenets of Christian faith as presented in the classic confessional statement of the Council of Constantinople, 381 AD, the Nicene Creed. The Creed provides a structure for investigating the foundational beliefs of the Catholic Church and the areas of theology that correspond to those beliefs. Participants in the course will gain knowledge of the history and development of the Church’s beliefs. Topics include the Trinity, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Church, the Mother of God, and eschatology. Prerequisite: RS 180 Christian Spirituality.