Byzantine Eucharistic Liturgies

This course explores the history and Interpretation of the Divine Liturgies of St. John Chrysostom, St. Basil the Great, and the Presanctified Gifts. Contemporary concerns regarding the significance and possible reform of these Liturgies will be discussed as well, as disputed Issues of Eucharistic doctrine and practice. Thus, the purpose of this course Is to 1. become familiar with the historical development of the texts, rites, environment, and Interpretation of these Eucharistic services. 2. Investigate and analyze the theologies of assembly, eschatological movement, proclamation, sacrificial offering, thanksgiving, remembrance, pneumatic Invocation, cosmic transformation, communion, and ministry-as these are manifested In the Byzantine Eucharist. 3. illustrate and evaluate how liturgy and theology Interact to provide answers to fundamental questions of human existence as well as a context for the elaboration of such questions.