A survey of the major theological contributions of the Franciscan intellectual tradition that include the writings of Francis, Clare, Bonaventure, Scotus, Ockham and others. Students will consider the theological implications for our world today. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

This course will examine historical, contemporary and emergent roles of women in communities of religous thought and practice, and will analyze systemic issues regarding gender, class, race, and ethnicity. It will investigate the ways in which women understand themselves in relationship to the divine, to the call to wholeness, and to worship. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

This course is designed to equip persons to serve effectively as reflective leaders in the contemporary church and related Christian or faith-based ministries. This course includes a comprehensive and holistic study of factors inherent to the practice of leadership and ministry in a variety of settings. Research based theories and models of leadership, organizational design, and administrative principles will be discussed and evaluated from biblical-theological and cultural perspectives.

While this course is rooted in Biblical, Franciscan, and Catholic social teaching, it will also explore other spiritualities (Islam, Judaism, Native American, etc.) that respond to environmental issues. Social analysis and theological reflection skill development will enable students to better articulate the conflicts humans have in relationship with the rest of the natural world and how they can contribute to the health of the planet. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

In the face of the vast, increasing economic inequality, this seminar interrogates the role of religious institutions and individuals. Do our religious institutions sustain or challenge economic inequality, and how This class will attempt to answer this question with a focus on three types of texts: classical texts that shaped 20th Century U.S. Christian consciousness; contemporary works that analyze the effects of economic inequality on the social fabric; and texts that clarify the vital roles some contemporary religious movements are playing in supporting economic inequality. SJE, IFP

A selective survey on how Christian tradition has viewed Jesus Christ from Biblical to modern times; the centrality of the role and mission of Jesus for contemporary persons. A study of Biblical and contemporary metaphors for Jesus. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

Designed specifically for the adult student, this course is an examination of critical Christian doctrines and theological concepts that ground the Catholic, Franciscan, and liberal arts identity of Viterbo University. This course will explore the life of Francis of Assisi as a unique way of considering how theology influences the Christian worldview. May not also take RLST-160 or 342. TI

A concentrated exploration and study of the four Gospel narratives of Jesus Christ and their place within Christianity and the modern world. An in-depth study of the history and content of each Gospel will be presented. Major narratives are critically analyzed as to their application to the modern world. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

This course uses films (and similar media) to help participants develop an ability to recognize theological and religious themes and pratice methods for theological reflection. A variety of films will be shown, rated G-R, on themes of sacrifice, vocation, leadership, forgiveness, love, family, faith, and Catholic tradition. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP

This course delves into foundational materials for developing a personal spirituality based on Christian principles for spiritual development. It will promote an understanding of the influence that spirituality, beliefs, and values have on human health and healing. The student will apply course content in developing a personal holistic approach in the care of self, patients, clients, families, and communities. Prerequisite: 160, 305, or 342. IFP