Christian Spirituality: History and Theology to 1500

The course acknowledges the contemporary interest in spirituality, both within and without the Christian tradition. It provides a detailed study of Christian spirituality from its beginnings to 1500 CE. Within this frame, definitions and traditions of spirituality are explored. Historical and theological approaches to the study of spirituality are identified with the purpose of identifying spirituality as a distinct academic discipline. The biblical roots of spirituality are identified in respect of Jewish tradition, with Jesus and the New Testament, and ways of reading the Bible for spiritual benefit. The relationship of spirituality to the visual arts, architecture and music are pursued. Prayer as a central focus of the spiritual life is examined in respect of practices in the early church, the Lord’s Prayer, and in liturgy and worship. The category of spirituality and celebration covers the eucharist in the context of feasting, food and worship. The spirituality of place covers journey, pilgrimage, and ascent as distinctives. With a sense of time the focus is on the year and week in the Christian tradition. Finally, the spirituality of darkness and light is outlined. Throughout an evangelical perspective and critique of spirituality is provided. A survey of the medieval spiritual inheritance concludes the course.