The foundational mysteries of the Christian religion affirm that God is three Persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and that the second Person – Jesus Christ – was incarnate, suffered, and rose again. To what extent can Catholic sacred theology understand these mysteries? This course explores Christian faith in the Triune God, as well the incarnation and Paschal Mystery of Christ (Jesus’s death and resurrection). The historical development of Christian creeds will be examined as well as the major thinkers who participated in the ancient dogmatic controversies which were addressed at the first six ecumenical councils (for example, Nicaea, Ephesus, Chalcedon). In addition to understanding how the
Church’s doctrine concerning the Trinity and Christ developed by way of clarification in response to errors, students will also investigate Christ’s role as Redeemer, the Paschal Sacrifice, the doctrines of satisfaction and justification, and the centrality of Christ for human salvation. (3 credit hours)

Please contact Kim Schulman with questions.

Proprietary Interest Policy:

Faculty are permitted to refer to notable past work and achievements (including publications and educational activities not offered by Pontifex University, and even those offered for personal profit) in their published biography on the Pontifex website and course promotions. In the context of educational activities undertaken for Pontifex University, including videos, live or recorded, teachers, can recommend or bring to the attention such work for students (even if for personal profit, for example, books or podcasts) but only with approval by Pontifex University and when it is related to the teaching purpose of the class.  An instructor’s related work will be noted in the syllabus as appropriate.  Instructors may use their own materials as required in their courses and learning events as long as the materials are appropriate for the particular learning event.

Failure to comply with this policy will result in a warning or administration modification of course materials. Violations of this policy should be reported to the Provost.