Justice and Peace: The Legal Imagination in Christianity

Catalog description

An exploration of Christianity's relationship to law in three primary ways. First, its theology of law in a New Testament era of grace upholding justice and mercy and directed toward peace or reconciliation. Second, its understanding and usage of legal norms and regulations in the church's administration, sacraments, and discipline of its members (canon law) as an earthly institution. Third, the impact of Christian canonistic jurisprudence on the western legal tradition. Special attention is given to legal norms concerning marriage, penance, and procedure (due process, rights of defendants). Analytical and writing skills developed.