Course Objective:
The life of the Apostolic churches is built on the belief in Lord Jesus, the Holy Bible, the Sacraments and the teachings of the church fathers. Also, in these traditions, liturgical worship is frequently around the sacrament of the Eucharist. While some traditions differ between churches, helped by historic isolation, limited communication and language barriers, there are lots of commonalities exist. Studying those should open one’s eye to the power of God’s Spirit in overcoming differences and in overshadowing the faithful believers. Also, it helps church members to support each other’s faith in a world that is full of challenges and diabolic unceasing attempts to divide communities and keep people away from God. This course aims at studying the commonalities between the Catholic, Byzantine, Syriac and Coptic churches. This is achieved by understanding the spiritual and cultural practices and their biblical foundation in each tradition.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Understand the Core Beliefs of the four Churches: Analyse and articulate the foundational beliefs shared by the four churches, including faith in Lord Jesus Christ, the authority of the Holy Bible, the significance of the Sacraments, and the teachings of the church fathers, recognising these beliefs as essential elements of Apostolic tradition.
2. Identify Common Liturgical Practices: Identify and compare common liturgical practices among Catholic, Byzantine, Syriac, and Coptic churches, recognising how these practices reflect shared theological convictions and spiritual priorities across denominational lines.
3. Explore Spiritual and Cultural Traditions: Examine the spiritual and cultural traditions of Catholic, Byzantine, Syriac, and Coptic churches, exploring their biblical foundation, theological significance, and historical development within each tradition, fostering a deeper understanding of the richness and diversity of Apostolic heritage.
4. Appreciate Commonalities and Differences: Appreciate both the commonalities and differences that exist among the four churches, recognising the diverse expressions of faith, worship, and spirituality within the broader Christian tradition, and acknowledging the role of historic isolation, limited communication, and language barriers in shaping distinct traditions.
6. Promote Ecumenical Understanding: Promote ecumenical understanding and cooperation among members of different churches, fostering a spirit of mutual respect, dialogue, and collaboration in addressing common challenges and advancing the mission of the Church.
Course Structure:
Advent (1 x 4)
Masterly Feasts (2 x 4)
Pascha (1 x 4)
Feast of the Cross (1 x 4)
Feasts of Our Lady Virgin Mary (1×4)
Feasts of John the Baptist (1×4)
Assessment:
Two term exams to evaluate overall comprehension and proficiency.
Prerequisites:
Interdenominational Studies certificate course.
Delivery Method:
The course will be delivered entirely online through a learning management system. All lectures
are delivered by Zoom. Participants will have access to recorded lecture videos, reading
materials, and discussion forum on the course website.
Duration: October 2024-June 2025
Diploma:
Upon successful completion of the course and passing the final exam, participants will receive TEACH Diploma in Interdenominational studies. The Diploma will only be received upon
completion and passing of the two term exams.
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