AIS: Roots of Celtic Christian Spirituality.

Catalog description

Pressing social and political issues have generated increasing interest in Celtic Christian spirituality. Many Christians, as well as many from outside the Church, are attracted to this ancient form of worship. Is this trend promising for the revitalization of the contemporary, evangelical church? This course will offer insight into Celtic Christianity by means of a thorough examination of its roots. We will look closely at, first, the philosophical origins of the dominant themes of the early medieval Irish church. Grasping these philosophical, theological and ecclesiastical roots requires seeing them in their proper social and political context. To that end, we will survey the historic milieu in which these ideas took root. Finally, we will also examine the outworking of the Christian mission in Ireland and beyond. Reflecting on the underlying theological commitments, the lives and times of those who developed Celtic spirituality, will provide rich resources for the restoration of the contemporary Christian Church.