Latino Religious Expressions

Catalog description

Taught by JST. What role does religion play in Hispanic culture? What are the many ways that such beliefs are manifested? How do the fields of history, anthropology, sociology, literature and art all contribute to a better understanding of how Latinas and Latinos experience the Sacred? This course provides an opportunity for students to explore such areas as popular religion, the historical roots of religious expressions, how religion appears in contemporary movies, art, and music, and also to learn about various perspectives. Although the focus is primarily Mexican and Mexican American, an attempt will be made to include examples from other Latino cultures. Aside from lectures and readings, the class features films, slides, and class discussions. Requirements: weekly Moodle postings, a book report, reflection paper on field visit, and one oral final. Knowledge of Spanish is helpful but not a requirement. Can count as a JST MDiv. praxis course and is intended for MDiv, MA/MTS, and STL students. [Faculty Consent required; 12 max enrollment]