Introduction to Byzantine Christian Worship

College University of St. Michael's College, Faculty of Theology
Instructor(s)
Course Code SMP1102HF
Semester First Semester
Section 0101
Online No
Credits One Credit
Location Toronto (St George Campus)
Description

This course explores fundamental elements of Byzantine Christian worship in the various families of the Constantinopolitan tradition - both Orthodox and Eastern Catholic. After an historical overview extending to the present, we will survey the tradition's liturgical environment, music, main services and cycles, as well as the liturgical books, utensils and vestments. In addition to historical and theological perspectives, the survey will include anthropological, psychological, and pastoral dimensions. The course provides the building blocks and tools for further study of this Rite and equips students to identify key issues and challenges in the practice and understanding of Byzantine Christian worship today. They will also gain the knowledge needed to evaluate Byzantine Christian worship according to criteria derived from authoritative guidelines of the Byzantine Churches as well as the thought of leading theologians and liturgists.

Schedule Mon
Start Time 19:00
End Time 21:00
Hours Per Week 2
Minimum Enrolment 5
Maximum Enrolment 20
Additional Notes

One of the assignments will require observation of a Byzantine liturgical service in a community of that tradition in the GT A.

Teaching Method
Lectures
Seminars
Tutorial
Readings
Means of Evaluation
Class Participation
Research Paper
Quizzes
Book Review
Other
Currently Offered Fall 2017