The First Cycle of the Theology Course is an initiation to give the student a Synthetic view of the Christian Mysteries and of the main Fundamental Theological Disciplines.
Degree Of Bachelor Of Theology
Course Outline
1. Eligibility
For admission to the First Cycle of Theology course leading to the Degree of Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.) or to the Dipoma in Theology, a candidate should have B.Ph. Degree or Diploma in Philosophy. The applicant should be presented by the Rector or the Superior of the student. Lay persons attending the course are presented by their parish priest.
2. Duration and Content
The course leading to the Degree of Bachelor of Theology extends over three years and each year is divided into two semesters. For the B. Th. Programme a student is expected to attend courses of 180 credits. A credit, by which the course-work is measured, consists of 25 study-hours. Study-hours are split into lecture hours and non-lecture hours (i.e. self-study, assignments and practical hours).
3. B.Th. Thesis
As part of the Degree Course, students have to prepare a Thesis on a theological subject under the guidance of a teacher of the Faculty. The text must have ca.10,000 words excluding the face-sheets, footnotes or endnotes. Two printed copies as well as a soft copy of the same must be submitted to the Faculty Office on or before 30thJanuary of the third year. A Reader for the Thesis will be appointed by the Dean/Asso. Dean of the Faculty and an oral examination will be conducted on the Thesis in due course. In the oral examination held for 10 to 15 minutes, the student defends the content and methodology of his/her paper before the Director and the Reader. The proportion of awarding marks will be as follows: Director gives 60% of marks and the Reader gives 20%, and the remaining 20%, given by the Director and the Reader, is for the performance in the oral examination. While the Director and the Reader assess the Thesis, 40% marks is given for the scientific methodology and 60% for the content.
4. Evaluation of Courses
All courses will be evaluated by means of examinations with marks. Examinations may be oral or written. The evaluation of the one-credit courses is permitted with Assignments/Projects. 25% of the total marks could be for internal assessment. The pass mark is 50% in each individual subject.
At the end of sixth semester there will be comprehensive oral and written examinations in the subjects of Biblical Theology, Moral Theology and Systematic Theology. 50% marks are necessary for a pass in each panel of the comprehensive examinations.
All the examinations will be arranged and announced by the Controller/Asso. Controller of Examinations. The dates of all examinations are given in the Handbook and Calendar. For the re-examination a Fee of Rs.50.00 will be charged per subject.
5. Grading System
The grading of result done according to the percentage of the marks obtained in the examinations and the Thesis as follows:
- 90-100 % – High Distinction
- 80-89 % – Distinction
- 70-79 % – First Class
- 60-69 % – Second Class
- 50-59 % – Passed with Third Class
- 01-49 % – Failed
6. Programme of Study
The programme of study comprises Lecture Courses, Seminars and Thesis. The Courses are divided into the following branches of Theology: Biblical Theology, Fundamental and Systematic/Dogmatic Theology, Moral Theology, Patrology, Church History, Liturgy, Spiritual Theology, Pastoral Theology and Canon Law. The subjects are divided into the following categories: Principal Obligatory Subjects, Auxiliary Obligatory Subjects, Optional Subjects, and Other Basic Requirements.
DEAN
Rev. Prof. Gregory R.B.
ASSOCIATE DEAN
Rev. Prof. Chennattu Augustine
SYNOPSIS
BIBLICAL THEOLOGY (BT)
BT 01. Introduction to Bible and Biblical Hermeneutics (3)
The course consists of the following points: Definition of terms: inspiration and hermeneutics, Bible as the Word of God in human language, the truthfulness of the Bible as a result of the inspiration; canon of the Bible and the main criteria in establishing the canon; methods and approaches to biblical interpretation and Bible in the life of the Church.
Just as any other literary piece, the Biblical text too is a product of its times. In addition to the dominant and decisive influence of the Judaic world, the Greco-Roman world has inserted its influence on the NT writings. After a short discussion of the geographical and historical settings of the NT, special attention will be paid to the Socio-cultural, linguistic, philosophical and religious background, in which the NT writings had their origin. The situation of the primitive Christian community whom the books were primarily intended also come into our purview.
Thadathil L. / Maria Michael F.
BT 02. Pentateuch (3)
This course is a detailed introduction to the first five books of the Bible. After discussing briefly, the Pentateuchal problem and the present position of the pentateuchal scholarship, the primeval history (Gen. Chs. 1-11), the Abraham stories (Gen. Chs. 12-25), the story of Isaac (Gen. Ch.26), the Jacob stories (Gen. Chs. 27-36) and the Joseph stories (Gen. Chs. 37-50) are analyzed. Further, the exodus event, the ten plagues, the Sinai covenant, the legal corporal of the O.T. such as the Decalogue (Ex. 20:2-17; Deut. 5:6-21), the code of the covenent (Ex.20:22-23:19), the ritual Decalogue (Ex.34:14-26), the Deutronomic code (Deut.chs. 12-26) holiness code (Lev. Chs. 17-26), the apodictic and casuistic laws of the O.T. are given detailed consideration.
Thadathil L. / Mathirapilly S.
BT 03. Historical Books (2)
This course on Historical Books of the OT intends to have a general perspective of the salvation history covered in almost half of the OT books. Since Pentateuch is a separate course, it does not come in the purview of this course. After seeing the general characteristics of Deuteronomistic history, Chronicler’s history and Maccabean history, we see the content and main historical and theological points of those books. The study of these historical books is important for understanding the NT.
Kokkatt J. / Mathirappilly S.
BT 04. Prophets – I (3)
The course on Prophets has two parts. Prophets I is a general introduction to the prophetical writings. The origin of the phenomenon of prophecy in Israel. The characteristics of Nabim. The formation of prophetical books and the leading literary categories. The various divisions and classifications of the prophetical books. Elijah, the prophet of Yahweh. The study of the pre-exile prophets, Amos, Hosea and Micha.
Thadathil L. / Mayyattil J.J.
BT 05. Prophets – II (3)
Prophets II studies Proto, Duetro and Tridto Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezechiel and Daniel. It will also have a general study of the remaining prophets. The course includes the study of Jesus the prophet. The prophetical mission of the Church and the prophetical dimensions of priestly and religious lives also are dealt with.
Thadathil L. / Mayyattil J.J.
BT 06. Psalms (2)
This course offers a basic introduction to the Psalter. It imparts elementary notions about the Hebrew poetry and presents theories concerning the history of composition of the Psalter. The types of Psalms are presented from a critical point of view, with a view to empower the students to categorise the Psalms for academic purpose and for their contextualized use. A few individual Psalms will be exegetically analysed and studied mainly from the literary perspectives. The students will be introduced to Christological and spiritual interpretation of those Psalms too. The course envisages presentation of the main theological themes of the Psalter, their chief contributions to the New Testament theology and their use in the life of the Church. Special attention is given to the discussion on the issue of imprecatory Psalms and their use in Christian prayer and life. The relevance of the Psalter in the present socio-cultural scenario will also be dealt with.
Mayyattil J.J.
BT 07. The Wisdom Writings (3)
The course aims at acquiring an overall grasp of the background, development, the literary types and message of the sapiential literature of the Old Testament. The course has two parts. The first part is a general introduction to the Wisdom literature. In the second part selected texts from the Wisdom Literature will be studied.
Nalpathilchira J. / Manuveliparambil A.S.
BT 08. Gospel of Mark and Synoptic Problem (3)
The study of any one of the first three Gospels has to address the problem of the overwhelming similarity and dissimilarity with other two. A detailed discussion of this and other related theme from the first part of this course. The Gospel of Mark, assumed in many of the solutions to be the first among the Synoptics, gets the major attention in the next. After the discussion of introductory questions like author, place and time of compositor, etc., the literary and theological structure of the Gospel will be mentioned. Following the outline, the individual units or groups of units will be analysed and interpreted.
Nalpathilchira J. / Maria Micheal F
BT 09. The Gospel of Matthew (2)
The expectation of the course is to introduce one into an experience of the various dimensions of the person, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ the Son of God according to the Gospel of Matthew. The text of the Gospel of Matthew is read from various perspectives. A preliminary consideration consists of the study on the authorship, date and place of writing, purpose and the main characteristics of the Gospel of Matthew and of the community to which the evangelist wrote this Gospel. This will be followed by a study of the structure and main theological concerns of the Gospel of Matthew. Texts like the infancy narrative, baptism and temptation of Jesus, Sermon on the Mount, missionary discourse, parables and miracles in Matthew, the account of Last Supper, the account of passion, death and resurrection of Jesus are studied in detail especially from the point of view of its impact as a life transforming experience.
Nalpathilchira J. / Jeo M.
BT 10. The Johannine Writings (3)
This course consists of the study of the Gospel of John and the three Letters of John. A first reading of the Gospel will include introductory questions, such as the literary character, the authorship, the religious and the socio-cultural background of the Gospel, and the Johannine community in which the Gospel took shape. A second reading will involve an exegetical analysis of the Gospel, especially the Prologue, the dialogues, the discourses of the book of Signs, and the farewell talks and the passion narrative of the book of Glory. Such a reading coupled with hermeneutical reflection will try to elicit the theology of the Fourth Gospel.
Nalpathilchira J. / Maria Micheal F.
BT 11. Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles (3)
The course aims at studying the Gospel of Luke from different angles. Our study starts with an enquiry about the author, date and place of writing, the main characteristics of the Gospel and the community to which this Gospel is written, followed by a discussion on the structure and main theological concerns of the Gospel. Then a close reading of Gospel is done with special attention to the infancy narrative, ministry in Galilee, journey to Jerusalem, parables in Luke and the account of passion, death, resurrection and the command of Jesus for a universal mission. The interpretation of the texts is done with special attention to their practical implications in the society today.
Thayyil P. / Maria Michael F.
BT 12, 13. St Paul – I & II (3+3)
The introductory part of the course will consist of the following: (a). a brief look into the life and person of Paul; (b) the presentation of Paul as the creator of the apostolic letter writing praxis; (c) the rhetorical character, and the format of Pauline Letters; (d) a classification of the Letters of Paul on the basis of authenticity, date and content. In the selections of passages from the undisputed Letters special emphasis will be given to biblical theological and hermeneutical problems arising out of the Letters, I Thessalonians, Romans, Galatians and 1 and 2 Corinthians.
Nalpathilchira J. / Maleparambil J. / Jacob P.
BT 14. Captivity Letters (2)
The “Captivity Letters of Paul,” viz., the letters of Philippians, Philemon, Colossians and Ephesians, are named thus because Paul’s imprisonment is mentioned in them. Philippians and Philemon undoubtedly come from Paul’s own hand. The authenticity of Colossians and Ephesians is, however disputed. After treating such introductory questions, the course will take into account the vision of Christ, of his Body the Church, of the mystery of God hidden for ages and now revealed, and of the consequent way of life to be led by Christians.
Maleparambil J. / Jeo M.
BT 15. Letter to Hebrews (1)
This course contains the following points: A primary study is on the title, author, date of composition, literary genre, purpose andSitzim Leben of Hebrews. This will be followed by a study of the literary structure of the book. Main argument of this book ‘the priesthood of Jesus the High Priest’ and other theological themes like faith, suffering and hope, charity and holiness etc. are studied in detail. A reflection is also envisaged on the relevance of priesthood in the society today and on the originality of the Christology of Hebrews.
Maleparambil J. / Maria Micheal F.
BT 16. The Book of Revelation (1)
The Book of Revelation will be introduced in the perspective of the Jewish and Christian apocalyptic literature of the period. After looking into the literary character, the authorship and the date of the book, selected texts will be taken up for exegetical study to elicit the message of the book. The close reading will show how the author tried to interpret and evaluate the happenings of his time in relation to the Church and how he tried to instill faith and hope in his readers, especially in moments of crisis and suffering, on the basis of the firm conviction of victory of Christ at the end, as God has the last word in history.
FUNDAMENTAL AND SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY (ST)
ST 01. Introduction to Theology (2)
The course is intended to guide the students into theological studies. This is carried out in four phases. The students will be introduced to theological terms in the initial phases along with the explanation of various definitions and divisions of theology. The historical development of theology is treated in the second phase. The Second Vatican Council Documents will be introduced in the third phase along with their theological orientations. The present-day theological trends – both western and Indian – are introduced in the final phase.
Thadathilputhenveettil T. / Valluvassery C.
ST 02. Theology of Revelation and Faith (3)
Revelation is the fundamental concept of theological reflection. Biblical understanding of cosmic (natural) and historical revelations, and their mutual relationship. The theology of revelation in the Patristic and scholastic traditions. Vatican I and Vatican II on revelation, contrast and comparison. Philosophical challenges to the Christian understanding of revelation. Revelation and world religions. Faith as a response to God who reveals. Problems and challenges to faith. Biblical understanding of faith. Justification by Faith. Trent and Reformation. Faith and Salvation. The certitude and darkness of faith. The Hindu and Islamic understanding of revelation and faith.
Maruthukunnel J. / Antony Ponveli
ST 03. Christology (3)
This course is a systematic reflection on the person and work of Jesus Christ. It attempts to find out the New Testament affirmations on Christ and the traditional Christological formulations. It will study the theological meaning of the death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. An attempt would be made to interpret the meaning and relevance of Jesus Christ in the Indian context.
Maruthukunnel J. / Gregory R.B.
ST 04. Trinity (3)
This course begins with a preliminary investigation on reason and faith which leads to an understanding of different forms of theism and atheism. In the context of the one, personal God revealed in the Old Testament the different names of God and his attributes are discussed. The development of the doctrine of the Trinity is brought out going into the patristic sources and early Councils. The course also looks at the Trinity from a pastoral point of view. Christian spirituality should be rooted in the Trinity, which invites all to a life of mutual love, sharing and unity. The Indian concepts of God seen as Sat – Cit – Ananda enrich the Christian understanding of the Trinity.
Thadathilputhenveettil T. / Sugun L.
ST 05. Sacraments in General (3)
This course offers an understanding of the sacraments in their biblical, liturgical, historical, ecumenical, personal and communal dimensions. The students are invited to reflect deeply on the basic fact that the Church lives through the sacraments. The method used is historico-theological. The main themes: the term “sacrament” – Sacraments in all Religions – Theological Preconditions for Sacramental Theology – Beginning of Christian Sacraments – Development of Christian Sacraments – Twentieth century Developments – Sacramental Causality – Effects of the Sacraments – Institution of the Sacraments – Sacraments as Liturgical Acts and finally Active Christians as living Sacraments.
Thattacherry A. / Valluvassery C.
ST 06. Sacraments in Particular (2)
This study intends to offer the theology of Baptism, Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick and Holy Orders. Baptism: Symbolism of Water – Historical Antecedents to Christian Baptism – New Testament Insights into Baptism – Baptism in the Judeo- Christian Writings – Effects of Baptism – Infant Baptism – Baptism and Original Sin. Confirmation: Uneasiness about Confirmation – Biblical Foundations – Development of Confirmation as a Separate Sacrament-Theology of Confirmation. Anointing of the Sick: Biblical Foundations – History of Anointing and Healing in the Church – Theology of Anointing of the Sick. Holy Orders: The Origins of Office in the Church – The Development of Teaching about the Sacrament of Orders – Bishop, Priest, Deacons.
Thattacherry A. / Gregory R.B.
ST 07. Sacrament of Reconciliation (3)
The main objective of this course to explain clearly the distinctive elements of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and create in the minds of students a thirst for regaining the lost vigor of this sacrament and celebrate it meaningfully. Our study begins with a review of the present situation of the administration of this sacrament and it points out the reasons for the common disinterest and lag in the celebration of the sacrament. It calls for an exploration of the notion of sin. The loss of the sense of the sin, which has become one of the characteristics of modern society demands convincing answers with regards to the role of the Church. One may find out different forms and various traditions: Canonical penance, Tariff penance and private penance, each with its merits and demerits. After acquiring balanced view of tradition and theology, we shall deal with the quasi matter and material integrity of this sacrament. The role of the minister of confession is discussed in detail.
Kallely A. / Shanu F. / Arakkal J.
ST 08. Theology of the Eucharist (3)
The purpose of this course is to present before the students the glory and power of the sacrament of Eucharist. The course is offered in 11 main areas regarding this subject: Foreshadowing of the Eucharist in the Old Testament and in Jewish Tradition – Eucharist in the Gospels – Pauline Theology of the Eucharist – The form of the Primitive Eucharist – The Medieval Eucharistic Theology – Development of Eucharistic Theology in Modern Age – The Trinitarian Aspect of the Eucharist – The Ecclesial Dimension of the Eucharist and finally the Eschatological Dimension of the Eucharist. Understanding the real meaning of Eucharist will enable the students to participate actively in this mystery and work for the formation of one body called the Mystical body of Christ.
Thadathilputhenveettil T. / Sugun L.
ST 09. Grace and Pneumatology (3)
Part One: Development of a catholic theology of grace: – Scriptural and Patristic teachings on grace. St Thomas and the Scholastic classification of grace. Lutheran teachings and the response of the Council of Trent. Medieval theologians on grace and justification. New interpretation of the notion of grace by K. Rahner and L. Boff. Part Two: Grace as the indwelling presence of the Holy Trinity: – The immanence of the Risen Christ in us and our special union with him as taught by Paul and John. The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and the gift of divine life and divine sonship. The spiritual gifts and charisms.
Marottickal B.
ST 10. Ecclesiology (3)
This study will investigate the biblical, patristic and the subsequent development in the understanding of the Church throughout the centuries. Second Vatican Council changed the focus of understanding the Church from ecclesio-centrism to Christo- centrism, from Church as society to church as communion, patterned after the Trinitarian community, from pyramidal to communion model. The challenges and issues the Church faces in the new millennium, will be looked at from the perspective of Church’s prophetic role in the world. A contextualized ecclesiology will also be attempted as the Church finds herself as the sacrament of Christ, in the pluri-cultural pluri-religious and poverty stricken and exploited situation of India.
Maruthukunnel J. / Sugun L.
ST 11. Theological Anthropology (3)
This course will reflect upon the totality of human reality with special reference to creation, original sin, body, woman, work and leisure from the perspective of social sciences, Christian revelation and teachings of the Church. Students are initiated to the methodology of theologizing from and for various contexts. It also deals with the question of supernatural beings like angels and devils.
Kundukulam V. / Marottickal B.
ST 12. Theology of Religions and Dialogue (2)
This course deals with the question of Uniqueness of Christ and Unicity of Church in the context of religious pluralism. The challenges raised by pluralistic thinking will be examined in terms of the attitudes of Old Testament, New Testament and Church Fathers towards the pagan cultures. The course will also evaluate the various trends – Ecclesiocentrism, Christocentrism, Theocentrism and Soteriocentrism – in the light of the Church documents from the Second Vatican Council to Dominus Iesus. As the method of study, the original works of the renowned theologians on the above-mentioned trends and topics will be thoroughly and critically analyzed with the collaboration of the participants.
Kundukulam V. / Sugun L.
ST 13. History of Religions and Atheism (2)
This course deals with Islam, Sikhism and Zoroastrianism in general and the Catholic theology of other religions in particular. We examine the universalism and particularism inherent in biblical and patristic texts. The students are also introduced to the various schools of thought – ecclesiocentrism, christocentrism, theocentrism, soteriocentrism and pneumatocentrism – developed in the Theology of Religions and are educated to evaluate them in the light of Church documents to form a sound attitude towards other religions. It also speaks about the singularity of the Church and the conditions for a fruitful dialogue.
Kundukulam V. / Gregory R.B.
ST 14. Eschatology (2)
Christian Eschatology is the explanation of Christian hope that is founded on the promises of God made through Jesus Christ. This course envisages explaining the Christian hope of man regarding the final goal of man and of the universe. The hope of the second coming of Christ, Resurrection of the dead, the personal and general judgment, the meaning of the mystery of death, purification after death, the scope of eternal death and eternal life are the main issues discussed. The hope of the fullness of life in non- Christian traditions is considered.
Thattacherry A. / Gregory R.B.
ST 15. Missiology (2)
This course intends to offer a vision of Missiology in general, the biblical, theological, canonical and historical dimensions of mission and its relevance in today’s world. It also deals with the mission of the Church in India and its challenges.
Thekkekarottu J. / Gregory R.B.
ST 16. Mariology (1)
This course seeks to reflect on Mary, the archetype of the Church. The role of Mary in the salvation history will be explored. It will also study the important Marian dogmas and other important mariological issues such as marian devotions and apparitions.
Thattacherry A. / Gregory R.B.
ST 17. Social Teachings of the Church (2)
This course is designed mainly to enable the students to: Frame a social perspective in the pastoral life/ministry; Respond positively to the Social issues; Have better tools of analyzing the present social set up and living the liberative dimension of the Gospel; Have better understanding of the social encyclicals, the content of each encyclical and various social issues; Adapt the exhortation of the church in the changed socio-political scenario of the Kerala society, etc.
Kochuparampil J. / Plathottam S.
ST 18. Ecumenism (1)
The course on Ecumenism deals with the theology of the unity of the Church, the divisions, Reunion attempts, the origin and development of Ecumenism, various ecumenical movements, the ecumenical activities of the Catholic Church, the various documents of Catholic Church on Ecumenism and the difficulties and problems of Ecumenism.
Maruthukunnel J. / Marottikaparambil F.
MORAL THEOLOGY (MT)
MT 01. Fundamental Moral Theology (3)
It mainly deals with the methods of moral analysis i.e. how to arrive at correct moral decisions. Analyzing different moral methodologies we give primary importance to the personalist moral methodology developed by Catholic moral theologians receiving inspiration from the proposals of Vatican II. We make an effort to give adequate importance also to the social structural dimension of morality and the reality of sin. It is in this context we think about giving an adequate importance to the formation of a Christian conscience which takes in to consideration both personal and social dimension of conscience. Finally, the question of distinctiveness or uniqueness of Catholic moral theology also will be discussed.
Chennattu A. / Shanu F.
MT 02. Bio-Ethics (3)
This is a course which points to the moral obligation of protecting and promoting human life. The principle of inviolability of human life demands sufficient health care facilities and provisions for a decent human life. Human life has also to be protected from different threats to which it is constantly exposed especially in its beginning and end, namely indiscriminate experimentation on human life, organ trade in the pretext of organ transplantation, genetic engineering, abortion, life-prolonging treatment, euthanasia, suicide etc. As a part of this course we also critically analyse certain topics which are traditionally considered as exception to the principle of inviolability of human life, namely self-defence, self-immolation, violent revolution, capital punishment, just war, etc.
Chennattu A. / Shanu F.
MT 03. Marriage and Sexuality (3)
This course is meant to impart a correct perspective on sexuality and marriage so that ethical issues emerging from these areas can be correctly assessed from a moral point of view. Due to certain historical influences a one-sided and distorted vision on sexuality and marriage is developed in the Catholic tradition giving undue importance to the procreative purpose of sexuality. But the scriptural sources and the authentic tradition of the Church and lately the teaching of Vatican II point to a more balanced vision on sexuality and marriage. It is from this perspective different ethical issues connected with human sexuality are analysed. This course also will deal with the sacramentality of Christian marriage, the moral issues connected with responsible parenthood and artificial reproductive technologies.
Kallely A. / Shanu F.
MT 04. Social Ethics (3)
While the victims of injustice and inhumanities are increasing in the world, a Christian must be able to react against them at the light of the radical Gospel message of Justice. This course is a humble endeavour to analyse the notion of justice and the virtues connected with it. Justice speaks about the fundamental rights of man: the right to life, right to property, right to one’s honour, etc. A picture of the violation of these fundamental rights will shed light on the inhuman realities that threaten the dignity and honour of human life. Reparations of injuries and contracts are discussed, for they speak out the various forms of injustice and violations. Globalization and doing Christian social ethics with the downtrodden are also evaluated in this class.
Kallely A. / Shanu F.
LITURGY AND PASTORAL THEOLOGY (LP)
LP 01. Introduction to Liturgy (2)
The course includes the study of the following elements: The concept of liturgy. Historical development of the liturgy. Liturgical renewal in the light of the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy of Vatican II and other relevant documents. Liturgical theology. Pastoral Liturgy: Active participation, Liturgical spirituality, Liturgical catechesis, Liturgical music, art & architecture, Liturgy and Popular Devotions. Latin/Syro-Malabar/Syro-Malankara liturgies and their salient features.
Nellickakandathil J. / Vazhakkoottathil J.
LP 02. Liturgical Year and Liturgy of Hours (Latin) (2)
This course is directed to the study of the Liturgy of the Hours and the Liturgical Year. Under the study of the Liturgy of the Hours, the following are included: Ritual Jewish prayer in Jesus’ time, the experience and teaching of Jesus regarding prayer, a short history of the Liturgy of the Hours and a detailed study of Institutiogeneralis de Liturgia Horarum in its structural elements & theology. The Liturgical Year & Calendar are studied in the two main cycles: Temporal cycle & the Sanctoral Cycle. This study includes a three-fold manner, i.e., a short history, the present- day arrangement and theology.
Mary Lilly
LP 02. (a) Liturgical Year and Divine Office (Syro-Malabar) (2)
The Concept of time in the Bible and in Salvation History. The understanding of the Liturgical Year from Cosmic, Biblical, Hebrew and Christian perspectives. Structure and important theological themes of the Eastern Liturgical Year in general. History, structure and theology of the Syro-Malabar Liturgical Year. The Prayer and its timing in the Bible. Historical development of the Divine Office. Theology and spirituality of the Divine office. The Divine Office of the Syro-Malabar Church: Its history, various parts and content.
Nellikkakandathil J.
LP 03. Liturgy of the Sacraments (Latin) (3)
It includes the study of the sacraments i.e., the sacraments of the Christian initiation (i.e., baptism, confirmation and eucharist), and the sacraments of healing (Reconciliation and the Anointing of the Sick) the sacraments at the service of communion (Ordinations and Marriage) and the sacramentals (Christian burial and Blessings). Each one is studied at three levels: biblical basis, a short history and the present-day celebration with the help of theology.
Vazhakkoottathil J.
LP 03. (a) Liturgy of the Sacraments (Syro-Malabar) (3)
The Sacraments as “Mysteries” and as a “Personal Encounter” with God. The stages of the development of the Sacramental Rites. The anthropological dimension of the Sacraments. The History, Structure, Rites and Theology of the Syro-Malabar Sacraments of Baptism, Chrismation, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony and Holy Orders.
Nellickakandathil J.
LP 04. Liturgy of the Eucharist (Latin) (3)
It aims at the study of ‘the sacrament’ of the sacraments in its liturgical perspective. It includes: Jewish background and Biblical foundation. A short history of the Eucharistic celebration, a detailed analysis of the structural elements of the Mass in the light of the GIRM, Particular aspects of the Eucharistic celebration (Worship of the Eucharist outside mass, communion under both species. Communion outside Mass, Concelebration, Sunday celebration in the absence of a priest) and Liturgical adaption or inculturation of the Eucharistic celebration.
Thoppil A.
LP 04. (a) Liturgy of the Eucharist (Syro-Malabar) (3)
The origin of the East Syrian/Syro-Malabar Qurbana. The New Testament structure of the Eucharistic celebration. Ancient documents on the Eucharistic liturgy. The Commentators of the East – Syrian Qurbana. Various versions of the Syro-Malabar Qurbana. A detailed study of the structure, rites, theology and spirituality of the Syro-Malabar Qurbana.
Nellickakandathil J.
LP 05. Pastoral Theology (2)
The course on Pastoral Theology or Practical Theology is to give fundamental theological notion on the nature, history and content of Pastoral vision of the Church and practical clarifications on the areas of pastoral ministry. The course is based especially on the theological and pastoral vision of the Second Vatican Council and Pastores Dabo Vobis. Practical clarifications are also given regarding threefold priestly ministry namely community building, sanctification and preaching of the Word. The course is aimed at enabling the students to carry out their ministry in the Church and world more effectively at all levels taking into consideration challenges of today’s society.
Marottickal B.
LP 06. Catechetics & Homiletics (3)
While presenting in detail the pedagogy of person-oriented Catechesis, this course will deal with the objectives, sources, content, language, approaches and methods of catechesis. Students will be introduced also to the history of Catechesis, the documents and directories of the Church regarding Catechesis.
Kundukulam V. / Plathottam S.
CHURCH HISTORY AND PATROLOGY (CH)
CH 01. Ancient & Medieval Church History (3)
General Introduction-Birth of the Church: Political, Cultural, and Religious backgrounds -Jesus of Nazareth-Jerusalem Council (Acts 15)-The Apostolic Age (30-100)-Obstacles and reasons for the rapid spared of Christianity-Post Apostolic Age (1-2 centuries)-General features of the writing of Apostolic fathers-Development of Church organization (Hierarchy)-Bishops, priests, deacons and other orders-Paris, Diocese, Metropolitan and Patriarchate-Gnosticism and Montanism (2nd century)-Expansion of the Church until the end of the Second century-Church in the Third century (200-299)-Spiritual life and Morality (3rd century Church)-Persecution of the Christians in the Roman Empire (1-4th centuries)–Causes of Persecution and ten main emperors-Emperor Constantine (306-338) and the Edict of Milan-Origin of Monasticism in the East and West (3-4 Centuries)-A Few Heresies (2-5 centuries): Manichaeism, Monarchianism, Dynamic Monarchianism or Adoptionism, Modalistic Monarchianism or Sabellianism; Donatism, Pelagianism, Docetism-The Rise of Islam (500-600)-Origin of Patriarchate in the East and West-First six Ecumenical Councils: Nicea I (325), Constantinople I, (381), Ephesus (431), Chalcedon (481), Constantinople II (553), Constantinople III (680-81)-Council of Trullo (692).
Rise of Middle Ages–Pope Gregory the Great (590-604), Council of Nicea II (787)-Iconoclasm-Council of Constantinople IV (869-870)-Photian Schism (858)-Feudalism-The Great Schism of 1054 and the break between East and West-Lay Investiture-Concordat of Worms (23 September 1122)-Lateran I (1123)-Lateran II -(1139): Schism of Peter Leoni-Heresy of Peter Bruys; Cathars and Waldensians; Pope Gregory VII (1015-1085)-Gregorian reforms-Lateran III (1179)-Lateran IV–1215 Crusades–Factors that led to the Crusades- Consequences of the Crusades-Council of Lyons I (1245); Mendicant Orders: Franciscan Order, Dominican Order-Scholasticism; St. Anselm of Canterbury(1033/4–1109); Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274)-Inquisition-The Formation of the Papal States-Donation of Pepin-The Carolingian Dynasty and the Holy Roman Empire-Spread of Christianity in the North and East of Europe-Lyons II (1274).
Chittilappilly S. / Marottikaparambil F.
CH 02. Modern & Contemporary Church History (3)
The course on the History of the Church (8 Credits) is divided into four parts: Ancient, Medieval, Modern and Contemporary. The first and the second parts are taught in the I Year theology and the third and fourth parts in second year Theology. The whole course is arranged in such a way to study the growth of the Church in the light of faith and to understand her as she is. It deals with the origin, development of the Church, persecutions, various theological disputes, divisions, monasticism, lay domination in the church, formation of Papal State, abuses in the Church, Reforms Ecumenical Councils, Religious orders, Spiritual and heretical movements, Reformations and Counter Reforms, political involvements of the ecclesiastical authorities, the adaptations to the changing world, etc.
Chittilappilly S. / Marottikaparambil F.
CH 03. The Indian Church History (3)
This course mainly deals with the history of the Church in Kerala: the apostolate and martyrdom of St Thomas, the Apostles, the relationship of the Church in India with Persian Church, the contact with the western Church, the missionary activities of the western Church, the missionary activities of the western missionaries esp. of St Francis Xavier, the division, various jurisdiction, origin of different denominations, Reunion attempts, Ritual separation, institution of hierarchies and further developments.
Chittilappilly S. / Marottikaparambil F.
CH 04. Patrology and Archaeology (4)
The present study deals with the life, writings and the doctrine of the orthodox writers of Christian antiquity. The course encompasses the analysis of the three main periods of Patristics: a. The First Three Centuries, which contains mainly five elements: Primitive ecclesiastical literature, Apologetic literature of the second century, Heretical literature of the second century, Anti – heretical literature of the second century, Ecclesiastical literature during the genesis of Christian Theology, Exposed by both Eastern and Western Writers; b. The Second Period, that is, Golden Age of Patristic Literature (4th – 5th cents.), which comprises the study of the Greek Writers, Syriac Writers and Latin Writers: c. The Third Period, that is, Decline of Patristic literature.
The course on Christian Archaeology, branch of the science of Archaeology, introduces both the history and the aim of Christian Archaeology, and how a modern historians endeavours to reconstruct the life of the primitive Christians by studying literary (early Christian literature) and monumental sources surviving from antiquity (sepulchral inscriptions, paintings, sculptures churches, and products of minor arts).
Chittilappilly S.
CANON LAW (CL)
CL 01. Canon Law I: Introduction to Canon Law and General Norms – CIC (3)
It is mainly meant to offer the students an introduction to canon law course. The nature and purpose of law in the Church, the meaning of canon law, the two Codes of canon law, theology and canon law, a brief history of canon law are the topics treated in the first part. In the second part, the general norms concerning the persons in the Church, Rites, different kinds of law, canonization of civil law, obligation to observe the law, dispensations, juridical acts, administrative acts, power of governance, ecclesiastical offices are explained in the light of C.I.C., Book I (cc.1-203).
Villukulam S.
CL 01a. Canon Law I: Introduction to Canon Law and General Norms – CCEO (3)
This Course deals with introduction to Canon Law: Importance of the Study of Canon Law, the purpose of Church laws, the meaning of Canon Law, the concept of divine Law, natural Law and human Law, philosophy and theology of law, history of the codification of CCEO, Scope of CCEO, are included in this part. This course also treats the General Norms based on CCEO: Preliminary Canons, Law, Custom and Administrative acts (Title XXIX), Prescription and the Computation of Time (Title XXX), Persons and Juridic Acts (Title XIX), The Rights and Obligations of the Christian Faithful (Titles I), Churches Sui Iuris (Title II), Rights and obligations of Clerics (Title X). Lay Persons (Title XI), Associations of the Christian faithful (Title XIII).
Pallineerackal J.
CL 02. Canon Law II: Magisterium, Temporal Goods, Penal Sanctions – CIC (3)
This course concentrates on Christ’s faithful (c.204), full ecclesial communion (c.205), rights and obligations of the faithful, laity, clerics, religious (the consecrated), formation of clerics, incardination, loss of clerical state of life, areas of ministry of non-ordained faithful, and association in the Church (CIC, Book II). Besides, certain issues from the III Book on Teaching Office, and from the VI Book on Canonical penalties are dealt with.
Jerman S.
CL 02a. Canon Law II: Magisterium, Temporal Goods, Penal Sanctions – CCEO (3)
This course deals with the following topics: Ecclesiastical Magisterium (Title XV) teaching function of the Church in general, the ministry of the word of God, Catholic education, Instruments of social communication and especially books. Temporal goods of the Church (Title XXIII) the acquisition of temporal goods, the administration of ecclesiastical goods, contracts, and especially alienations, pious wills and pious foundations. Penal Sanctions in the Church (Title XXVII) delicts and penalties in general, penalties for individual delicts, grave delicts reserved to CDF. Procedure for imposing penalties (Title XXVIII) penal trail, imposition of penalties by extra-judicial decrees.
Pallineerackal J.
CL 03. Canon Law III: Hierarchy – CIC (3)
The focus of the course Canon Law III is on the Hierarchical constitution of the Church (CIC Book II). First it is presented at the level of the universal Church – the college of Bishops, Roman Pontiff, Ecumenical Council, Synod of Bishops, College of Cardinals, Papal Legates and Roman Curia. Second, at the continental and national level – Episcopal Conferences &Councils, the Hierarchical set-up in the Regions and Ecclesiastical Provinces. Thirdly, attention is given to the hierarchical offices at the diocesan level – Diocesan Bishop, co-adjutor/auxiliary bishop, Vicar general, episcopal vicars, other offices and departments in the diocesan curia, the council of priests, college of consultors, diocesan pastoral council, diocesan synod. In the fourth place, other forms of authority in the Church are outlines: authority in the consecrated life, the Hierarchy in the Oriental Churches, lay participations in ecclesiastical governance.
Jerman S.
CL 03a. Canon Law III: Hierarchy – CCEO (3)
This course deals with the topics like Offices (Title XX) canonical provision of offices, loss of office. The Power of Governance Title XXI), Recourses against administrative acts Title XXII), Supreme Authority of the Church (Title III) the Roman Pontiff, the college of bishops. The Patriarchal Churches (Title IV) the election of patriarchs, the rights and obligations of patriarchs, synod of bishops, the patriarchal curia, the vacant or impeded patriarchal see, the patriarchal assembly, the territory of a patriarchal Church. Major archiepiscopal Churches (Title V), Metropolitan Churches (Title VI), Eparchies and Bishops (Title VII) election of bishops, the rights and obligations of bishops, organs assisting the eparchial bishop, parishes, rectors of the churches. Exarchies and Exarchs (Title VIII), Assemblies of Hierarchs of several Churches sui iuris.
Pallineerackal J.
CL 04. Canon Law IV: Parish, Religious and Sacraments – CIC (3)
This course is mostly centred on the canonical-pastoral aspects of the parish ministry along with the study on the canonical aspects of the Sacraments. The provisions of cc.515-572 (Book II), cc.945-958 (Book IV), cc. 1254-1310 and other related canons are used to present the parochial ministry of teaching, sanctifying and governing in a systematic and comprehensive manner. Thus, the common norms concerning parishes, parish priests, team ministry, assistant parish priests, and so on are explained, connecting them with the particular laws existing in the area. The document of the Ap. See on “Certain questions regarding the collaboration of the lay faithful in the ministry of priests” (1997) is also a matter of study in this course. Besides, the course deals with the norms common to all Institutes of Consecrated life (cc. 573-606), Religious Institutes (607-709), Secular Institutes (cc. 710-730), and Societies of Apostolic Life (cc. 731-746). The Basic Canons on the Sacraments of Baptism (cc. 849-878), Confirmation (cc. 879-896), Blessed Eucharist (897-958), Penance (cc. 959-997), Anointing of the Sick (cc. 998-1007), and of Orders (cc. 1008-1054) are also taught in this course.
Villukulam S.
CL 04. Canon Law IV: Religious and Sacraments – CCEO (3)
Monks and other religious (Title XII) monasteries, erection and suppression of monasteries, the superiors, Synaxes, admission to monasteries, novitiate, monastic profession, formation of members, hermits, stauropegial monasteries, transfer to another monastery exclaustration and separation from the monastery, dismissal of monks. Orders and Congregations: erection and suppression of orders and congregations, superiors, admission to orders, congregations, novitiate, profession in orders and congregations, formation of members, transfer to another order or congregation, dismissal from an order or Congregation. Sacraments (Title XVI) baptism, Chrismation with Holy Myron, divine Eucharist, sacrament of penance, anointing of the sick, sacred ordination, impediments from receiving and exercising the sacred orders, those things that must precede sacred ordination.
Pallineerackal J.
CL 05. Canon Law V: Matrimonial & Procedural Law – CIC (3)
This particular course of canon law highlights the canonical discipline of the Church on marriage (CIC, Book IV, CC.1055- 1165; CCEO, cc.776-866; particular laws). Accordingly, after indicating the canonical definition of marriage, the norms concerning the pastoral care of marriage, the impediments, matrimonial consent, canonical form, mixed marriages, convalidation of marriages, matrimonial relieves (dissolution, annulment, separation), offices and tribunal procedures are clearly explained and illustrated with cases. The current Indian civil law on Christian marriage is also a point of serious consideration in this course.
Jerman S.
CL 05a. Canon Law V: Matrimonial & Procedural Law – CCEO (3)
This course aims at giving a profound knowledge concerning marriage and procedural laws. It deals with the canonical doc trine of marriage, pastoral care and those things that must precede the celebration of marriage, matrimonial impediments, mixed marriages, matrimonial consent, the form of marriage, convalidation, separation of spouses (CCEO cc. 776-866), marriage process based on the Motu Proprio Mitis et MisericorsIesus and particular law of the Syro-Malabar Church on marriage.
Pallineerackal J.
SPIRITUAL THEOLOGY (ST)
SP 01. Priestly Spirituality and Celibacy (3)
The Priesthood of Christ is the source and model of the Ministerial Priesthood. Sacramental consecration gives the priest a special identity and enables him to become the representative of Christ and the Church. Consequently, the Priest has a specific vocation to holiness. His specific spirituality, rooted in pastoral charity and determined by the threefold functions of his ministry, is supported and enhanced by a life of prayer, spiritual exercises and practice of virtues. The Evangelical virtues have a special affinity to priesthood, and celibacy remains a specific characteristic to the Catholic priesthood.
Areethara J. / Sugun L.
SP 02. Spiritual Theology (3)
Spirituality in its general sense refers to any religious or ethical value that is concretized as an attitude or spirit from which one’s actions flow. This concept of spirituality is not restricted to any particular religion. It applies to any person who has a belief in the divine or transcendent, and fashions a lifestyle according to one’s religious convictions. Coming to Christian spirituality it is a participation in the mystery of Christ through the interior life of grace, actuated by faith, charity, and the other Christian virtues. The study of the theology of Christian perfection or Spiritual Theology treats of spirituality in a scientific manner, and its object of investigation is the spiritual life, which is often supernatural in order. Spiritual theology is that part of theology proceeding from the truths of divine revelation and the religious experience of individual persons, defines the nature of the supernatural life, formulates directives for its growth and development, and explains the process by which souls advance from the be- ginning of the spiritual life to its full perfection. Thus, spiritual theology comprises three elements; the application of theological principles, the psychological data of spiritual experience, and practical directives concerning progress in the spiritual life with a view to Christian perfection. This study is divided in to two parts:
1) Doctrinal Foundations of Spiritual Theology,
2) Personal Growth in Holiness.
In the Doctrinal Foundations the Nature and Scope of Spirituality, The Goal of life, The Supernatural Features, Life in Christ and Christian Perfection, Mystical Experience etc. are dealt with. In the study of the Personal Growth in Holiness Sin and Conversion, Progress through Purifications, Means of Spiritual Growth, Theological and Moral Virtues, Discernment of Spirits, Grades of Prayer, and Aids to Spiritual Growth are explained. Then a brief Survey of the growth of Christian Spirituality in the Catholic Tradition is also discussed.
Areethara J. / Valungal A.
AUXILIARY OBLIGATORY SUBJECTS
AS 01. Biblical Hebrew (3)
The course gives an introduction to general grammar and phonetics, to the most integral parts of the Biblical Hebrew writing system, Biblical Hebrew phonology and morphology, as well as basic syntax. The goal of this course is to equip our students to identify the Hebrew alphabet and vowels and pronounce them, to read the text of the Hebrew Bible with some basic comprehension, to understand the fundamentals of the Hebrew language, and to be able to look up any word in the Hebrew Bible and determine its meaning.
Rediscover the Bible and gain a deeper and more profound understanding of the Holy Scriptures. Read the Hebrew Bible in its original language and uncover hidden secrets that have been lost for centuries. Only by studying the original language of the Bible can one see the text in its original state.
Mayyattil J.J.
AS 02. Biblical Greek (3)
This three-credit course aims to introduce the students to the linguistic world of the NT which is written in Greek. The characteristics of the Biblical Greek, the basic grammatical aspects like alphabets, the declensions of nouns, pronouns and adjectives, prepositions and conjunctions as well as the basic conjugations of verbs are taught in this course. The student can acquire thereby the ability to read the Greek texts and a basic working knowledge of the Biblical Greek language.
Thadathil L. / Maria Micheal F.
AS 03. Oriental Theology (3)
The course on Oriental Theology is intended to impart an overall knowledge on the various Oriental Churches. It deals with origin and history of Oriental Churches, the theological differences between the West and the East. It treats about the ecclesiology, Christology, Sacramental theology, Spiritual theology etc. of the Oriental Churches. The documents of the Catholic Church on Oriental Churches are also dealt with.
Nellickakandathil J.
AS 04. Indian Socio-Cultural Analysis and Contextualization (2)
This course is based on the vision that examination of the context is a necessary prelude to the study of theology and to the process of theologizing. Subsequently this course will introduce the students to the history, ideologies, movements, agitations, events, leaders, culture, literature and religious trends, which have shaped the visions and life-style of Keralites in the last two centuries. Exploration of these contexts will make them aware of the theological concerns of the local Church and they will be familiarized with the hermeneutics of theologizing from an Incarnational perspective.
KundukulamV. / Marottickal B.
AC 05. Modern Trends in Theology (3)
Topics like Dalit Theology, Feminism, Liberation Theology and Mysticism are treated in this course.
Thadathilputhenveettil T. / Valluvassery C. / Marottickal B.
AS 06. Theological Methodology & Research Methodology (1)
Research, being the systematic investigation into a particular topic with the purpose of establishing facts and reaching new conclusions on the topic, is fundamental to theological study. The objective of this course is to help the students develop a methodology suitable for theological research. At the completion of the course, students will be able to write scholarly papers on the contents of Christian faith. The first part of the course deals with the various elements of theological research, including the sources to be used, the skills of critical reading, ways to develop one’s own ideas, and the steps of the composition of a scholarly text. The second part is an exposition of the typographic guidelines of Pontifical Institute of Philosophy and Theology.
Kallely A. / Plathottam S.
OPTIONAL SUBJECTS (OS)
OS 03. Theology of Laity (3)
In the Ecclesiology, the role of laity is very important. Since they are always in the world with the temporal affairs of life, they are called to sanctify the secular world directly. It is an attempt to find out the ways and means of mutual penetration of various functions of laity, religious and priests towards the building of the Kingdom. The different states of life in the church make her the real body of Christ.
Muthanattu J.
OS 10. The Christian Missionary Speeches in the Acts of the Apostles (2)
Church has the eternal Jesus-given duty to be missionary in this world. How to fulfil this task in the ever-changing context of the world and of the Church? The Book of Acts in the NT recounts the story of the mission of the early Church under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It exposes how the early Church fulfilled the missionary command of Jesus in different contexts, among different people, through different apostles and disciples in different ways. It has inspired the Church in the past and in spires still the modern Church. In this course, we try to discover and understand these various aspects of the mission, especially the missionary sermons in Acts in order to collect insights for Church’s mission whether it is evangelization, re-evangelization or new evangelization as well as the continued pastoral mission of thecommunities in a world of all kinds of pluralisms, of media-explosion and ever-growing Godlessness.
Thayyil P.
OS 11. Special Questions in Moral Theology (2)
This is meant to address certain moral issues of contemporary interest and relevance. In choosing special issues for treatise primary importance is given to its pastoral relevance and importance.
Chennattu A. / Baiju J.
OS 14. Media and Communication (2)
This course means to provide a brief introduction to Communication Theology in general and some lessons on using it in pastoral and evangelizing mission. After explaining the nature of communication, it will be shown how church and communication technologies are in dialogue. A survey of church documents on communication shall be made.
Practical light shall be shed in this course on various aspects and appropriate tools of communication such as proclamation, homiletics, Catechesis, symbolic mediation through signs, liturgy, story, parable, metaphor, biblical storytelling, Christian art, architecture, music, film, new media and ministry (social networks).
Irimbinikal A.
Our Campuses
A Sacred Space for Formation, Reflection, and Growth. A Place Where Vocations Are Nurtured and God’s Call is Answered.
