Core Curriculum Course Descriptions
CC101 Introduction to the Catholic Faith
In this course participants will learn how the Catholic theological tradition has reflected on revelation and faith; the meaning of sin and salvation; the doctrine of God; scripture and tradition; an understanding of church and the spiritual dimensions of Christian life.

CC102 Introduction to the Old Testament (Part I)
The Old Testament is studied from historical, cultural, archeological and theological points of view in the light of official Catholic teaching on the Sacred Scriptures. Emphasis will be on the study of the Pentateuch.

CC103 Introduction to the Old Testament (Part II)
Continues the study of the Old Testament through an examination of the Prophets, Wisdom Literature and Psalms.

CC104 Introduction to the New Testament (Part I)
Examines the New Testament in the light of modern biblical hermeneutics with an emphasis on the environment and culture of that period. Emphasis will be on the four Gospels and the early church.

CC105 Introduction to the New Testament (Part II)
Continues the study of the New Testament through an examination of the letters and theology of St. Paul, the Catholic Epistles and the Book of Revelation.

CC106 The Church (Part I): Nature and Understanding
Basic themes and principles that have emerged in the thinking of the Church since Vatican II. Through a careful analysis of historical development, participants explore the theological and theoretical concepts that are foundational to understanding the nature of the Church as both a visibly organized society and mystical community of faith. Emphasis will be on the documents of the Second Vatican Council and contemporary magisterial teaching.

CC107 The Church (Part II): Historical Development
This course is the study of the development of Christian theology and the mystery of the Church from its beginnings until the present day. Due to the vastness of this topic, this course will focus mainly on those lines of development within the Catholic tradition which have had a major influence on the consciousness of Western Christendom.

CC108 Christology
Examines the historical and theological development of the Christian understanding of the person of Jesus, His message and His mission. Explores the title of Christ as portrayed in the New Testament, the early councils and contemporary theology.

CC109 The Sacraments
This course is an exploration of the historical and theological foundations of the seven Sacraments of the Church. Examines sacramental theology in light of Vatican II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

CC110 Catholic Moral Responsibility
Foundations and principles of moral responsibility are found in the Old Testament, the Gospels and Church tradition. This course will emphasize personal morality, the formation of conscience and right conduct.

CC111 Catholic Social Teaching
This course will examine Catholic social thought from its roots in both the Old and New Testaments to its contemporary expressions in the magisterial documents of the Church in the last two centuries. Develops an understanding of the themes and principles which guide Catholic social teaching, drawing awareness to the conditions influencing global economic relations, the promotion of human dignity and rights and the need to see the issues of justice as “a constitutive part of the Gospel.”

CC112 Theology of Ministry
This course will reflect upon the personal aspects of our Christian ministry as it is shaped by institutional and communal sources which impact thinking about ministry. This course will help participants become conscious and attentive to their own theological perspectives, their own sense of being called to serve, their own pastoral attitudes and motives, as well as their intrapersonal and interpersonal skills.

CC113 Introduction to Christian Spirituality
"The wonder of prayer is revealed beside the well where we come seeking water: there, Christ comes to meet every human being (CCC 2559)." This course examines the nature of Prayer and Christian Spirituality as understood within the Catholic tradition. Participants will become familiar with Church teaching concerning the nature of prayer and spirituality and explore major spiritual writers and practitioners throughout Christian history whose legacies include spiritual experiences, devotions and practices, together with insights in spiritual direction, counsel and instruction for others.

CC114 Introduction to Liturgy
"It is this mystery of Christ that the Church proclaims and celebrates in her liturgy so that the faithful may live from it and bear witness to it in the world (CCC 1068)." Liturgy is presented as the source and summit of the Christian life of faith, prayer, thanksgiving, community and service. In this course participants will learn foundations in liturgy through major Church documents as they relate to doctrine, spirituality, ritual and symbol. Emphasis will be on Eucharistic theology and practice.

CC115 Integrating Seminar
The final course in this core curriculum of theological studies allows participants to demonstrate critical thought, theological discernment and the ability to make practical applications in concrete pastoral situations.