TMPT7122 · Theology and Ministry

Theology in Context: Faith and Culture in American Catholicism

Clough School of Theology and Ministry

Theology--classically defined as "faith seeking understanding"--does not happen in a vacuum. It is a most human exercise that involves the whole person living in particular socio-historical and cultural contexts. From such particular contexts theology draws its meaningfulness and relevance; rooted in them it speaks universally. Theology draws from our intimate relationships: with God, others, and the world. This course uses historical and contemporary experiences from U.S. Latino communities as a case study. Note: Latinos constitute nearly half of the Catholic population in the country. Examples of theological reflection rooted in the experience of other communities that are part of the U.S. Catholic tapestry will also be analyzed. The course explores the contextual nature of the theological task, the importance of method, and the roles of the theologian and the community in the process of doing theology.