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

Contemporary Practice in World Religions is a course introducing students to diverse religious traditions. Coursework will review various faith practices in their contemporary applications. Students will explore the academic study of religion, reviewing the theology of sacred texts, rituals and worship and experiences of major religious traditions. Lectures, site visits and prayer experiences with practicing members of various faith traditions offer an additional point of conversation and discussion of current issues between religions and culture. Prerequisite: 160 or 342. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. IFP

A survey of the history of the Christian Church: its leaders, conflicts and development from the age of the Apostles to contemporary times. A study of the impact of church history for todays religious experience. Application of historical themes to the modern world. Prerequisite: 160 or 342. IFP

This class is designed to familiarize students with Christian tradition-its scripture, history, and doctrines-and its application and misapplication to the contemporary world. Banking on the adult learners experience and wisdom, students will be given additional tools to be critical thinkers about religion and religious experience in the public square. Students will have the opportunity to compare and contrast Christian thought with other monotheistic traditions, namely Islam and Judaism. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. May not also take RLST-160 or 305. TI

A study of the meaning of justice and peace: in the Biblical context, in social encyclicals and in our lives as Christians today. An examination of forms of violence and oppression in persons and in structures. Emphasis on possible positive responses: acting justly, making peace, liberating the oppressed. Prerequisite: 160 or 342. SJE, IFP

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 or 342. IFP

Courses on topics of interest to religious studies students offered on the basis of need, interest, or timeliness. Restricted to students with freshman or sophomore standing. May be repeated for credit. For specific section description, click to the Section Details in VitNet.

Non-classroom experience in the field of ministry, non-profit, or other related areas. Credit for experience must be sought prior to occurence. Placements are generally part-time and off campus. Course includes theological preparation and reflection on the experience. Areas of experience include children, youth, adults, aged, sick, dying, needy, etc. Prerequisite: six RLST credits. Restricted to students with freshman or sophomore standing. Permission of advisor or internship coordinator required. Graded CR/NC.

With the consent of chairperson and in consulation with a faculty member in the department, a student may engage in independent study in any of the areas approved by the instructor. Goals and objectives, and courses of study are to be set up before the student finalizes reqistration. Refer to the academic policy section for independent study policy. An Independent Study Contract is required. May be repeated for credit.

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. This course is resticted to students in bachelor completion programs.