HNR 105 Fr Honors: Theological Foundations

3 Credits

This overview course presents a foundation in theology by introducing students to Scripture and the basic tenets of Christian faith. Personal introspection on how spirituality can and does play a role in students’ lives is encouraged by placing an emphasis on critical thinking, theological reflection, and the centrality of community. The course examines core Christian themes through the lens of the Franciscan tradition and scripture.  These themes include images of God, creation, social justice, Christology, the Reign of God, sacraments and the Church.

Religious experience and its varied expressions are not best studied in the abstract.  Given the Catholic, Franciscan orientation of Neumann University, that tradition will be the foundation for our investigation of key themes and questions of religion.  This having been said, the course presupposes no particular religious background.  Students of all religious beliefs are invited to think critically about those beliefs and are encouraged to bring their views forward in the classroom. The primary structure of the course will be that of a seminar.  Students are expected to assume leadership in achieving course learning outcomes.