Introduction to Eschatology

Catalog description

Taught by JST. This foundational course takes as its starting point Monika Hellwig's definition of eschatology as "the systematic reflection on the content of our Christian hope." In addition to examining the scriptural sources and classical patristic and medieval developments of theologies of "the last things" (death, judgment, heaven, hell, and purgatory, and the general resurrection), we will explore contemporary pastoral and social dimensions of eschatology in terms of liturgy, ecclesiology, and social justice. The course is intended for MDiv students and others in first-degree programs (MA, MTS, etc.) with a built-in option to upgrade to the 4000 level for STL and doctoral students. This course will use a lecture/discussion format with occasional guest speakers. Assessment is based on class presentations, short writing assignments, and a final paper. STL and doctoral students with the upgrade will submit a 20-25 page paper on a topic within eschatology relevant to their own research and approved by the instructor. [Auditors with faculty permission]