Christianity and the World Religions Summer Scholars Session II

The present-day encounter of the great world religions is one of the most urgent and exciting events of our time. It ranks alongside the global struggle against poverty, injustice, and violence and the engagement of religion with science as one of the three great issues confronting twenty-first century humanity.

 

This course will introduce students to the basic teachings and spiritualties of Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam, and how they relate to Christianity. Approaching these religions both historically and theologically, we will seek to determine where they converge and differ from Christianity on such perennial issues as death, self-hood, the meaning and final goal of life, the nature of the ultimate Mystery, the overcoming of suffering, and other important topics. That is to say, we will not only attempt to comprehend these religions according to their own self-understanding, but we will also endeavor to appraise their significance in relation to Christian faith.

 

Our examination of the great world religions will be guided by such questions as: What do the world religious traditions have in common, and what are their points of diversion? What are the particular strengths of each tradition? How might the tenets of each religious tradition expand one’s awareness, and teach practitioners to be wiser, more compassionate and more giving? Related to our discussion of the teachings of the world religions will be a focus on prayer and meditation.

 

By the end of the course, students will have a greater understanding of what is essential to Christian faith and practice, as well as a greater appreciation of the spiritual paths of other faiths. While students who have exposure to Catholicism and other Christian faiths will find this course of deep interest, this course does not presuppose first-hand knowledge of any particular religious tradition. Spiritual seekers and skeptics are also welcome.

 

Course Schedule

This course will be offered during Summer Scholars Session II (June 29 - July 13, 2024) on campus.

 

Academic Director