Course Description
This is the comprehensive list of the Moamoa Theological College and Seminary curriculum of subjects according to departments. The first digit of the course code usually indicates the academic year or cycle in which it is taught.
- Courses for all levels are taught each year.
- All the courses are compulsory.
- All courses in bold type (e.g. CCC1 Profession of Faith) are major courses (8 credits).
- Courses in RED (e.g. LS111 Samoa: Introductory & History) are minor or elective courses, and Home Economics are mainly for diaconate wives (8 credits).
- Courses with (**) will be available in 2023
CATECHETICS
This course introduces the students to the basic of Catechism, the Teachings of the Church. The theory part discusses the nature and purpose of Catechism as being the prophetic task of the church and for the students to Catechize in the Church’s Mission: Revelation and it’s Transmission, Catechesis in the process of Evangelization and the Religious Instructions in schools. The course concentrates on the norms and criteria for presenting the Gospel message and the elements of methodology which equips the students with teaching skills, in planning and implementing various strategies and learning activities associated with religious education.
Learning Outcomes:
That by the end of the course the students will be able to:
- Explain the nature and purpose of Catechism as being the prophetic task of the Church;
- Appraise Catechesis in the Church’s mission: Revelation and it’s transmission, Catechesis in the process of Evangelization and the Religious Instructions in the schools;
- Understand and produce the Norms, criteria and methodology that the church requires for communicating the Gospel message;
- Appraise the tools of Catechism: Sacred scriptures, Sacred Tradition, Church and Sacrament;
- Understand the need to prioritize, plan and carry out the teaching of Catechesis at Parish level for all age groups and especially the preparation for receiving Sacraments;
- In methodology to recognize different learning styles, plan and write up lesson plans with suitable teaching techniques.
Lecturer: Sr. Vitolia MAUU, MF
This course is a survey of the basic tenets of Roman Catholicism as professed in the Creed and celebrated in the sacraments. The Catechism of the Catholic Church provides the major resource and student text.
Lecturer: Sr. Vitolia MAUU, MF
In the documents of Vatican II, the baptized are called to holiness and togreater understanding of their unique role in building the Kingdom of God.
An informational and enriching introduction to the Catholic faith and theology, this course is design Diaconate wives and Sunday School Catechesis to enable them to take greater responsibility in promoting the life and mission of the Church. Using the Catechism of the Catholic Church as a primary text, this course will explore six core areas and will serve as a good foundation for those who seek to catechize children and young adults in parishes and those who wish to continue theological studies or develop theological competency for ministry. Theology is a fascinating and vital subject that challenges those who study it to think critically and personally about human existence, the world we live in and our relationship with God and one another.
Coordinator: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
CANON LAW
The unit is divided into two introductory parts to Canon Law. The first part concentrates mainly on Canon Law sources and its development in history from Apostolic Age to Gratian and then from Gratian to the promulgation of 1917 code and its revision that became the main guiding principles for the preparation of the 1983 code. The promulgation letter of the 1983 Code “Sacrae Disciplinae Leges” by Pope John Paul II will conclude the first part of the unit. The second part is dealing mainly with the 1983 code in general, its contents, arrangement and layout with more specific concentration on basic principles drawn out from the Code.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an overall knowledge of the sources of Church’s Code of Canon Law;
- Assess the biblical, theological and philosophical foundations of Canon Law;
- Dissect the important document that promulgates the Code of Canon Law;
- Explain the structures of the Code of Canon Law;
- Illustrate the importance of Canon Law in the exercise of Church authority for the salvation of souls.
Lecturer: Sr. Evelina TUIA, MF
CL301—Canon Law of Sacraments
The course examines the Canonical background of the Sacraments in General and as based on the teachings of Vatican II. We will look at the provisions and particular legislative characters and their pastoral applications to help equip the student with the necessary tools to appreciate and correctly apply these Canonical Principles in their future priestly ministry. The course will also include a comparative study of liturgical laws and laws governing the celebration of the sacraments in the Code of Canon Law. The course will deal with the canonical provisions of the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Orders, and Anointing of the Sick. Since a course is offered solely on Canon Law of Marriage, we will not deal with that sacrament here. However, reference will be made on some specific points such as ministers and places for the celebration of Marriage.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Outline the canonical nature of each of the sacraments and their significance;
- Demonstrate an understanding of the canonical foundations of the sacraments;
- Defend the need for having laws governing each of the sacraments in theory and in practice;
- Compare and contrast the spirit of the 1918 Code of Canon Law and the spirit of the present Code of Canon Law;
- Defend the present Code of Canon Law as very canonical yet pastoral in orientation.
Lecturer: Sr. Evelina TUIA, MF
CL401—Canon Law of Marriage
This course will focus on the Canonical, legal essence of marriage and the main ways marriage can be null and void: the existence of an impediment, defect of consent and lack of form. It also addresses the power of the Church in dissolving marriages by the Pauline Privilege, Non-Consummation and Favour of the Faith. The course will also offer basic understandings generally on how the Tribunal functions and processes both nullity and administrative cases. This course will include a comparative study of liturgical laws and laws governing the celebration of the sacrament of Marriage in the Code of Canon Law. Basically, the main task will be the reading and studying of the main canons on marriage. The sad issue of divorce will also be addressed and annulment process of Marriage Tribunal.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the canonical understanding of marriage;
- Defend the need for having laws governing the sacrament of marriage in theory and in practice;
- Explain impediments, that can make marriage null and void;
- Use appropriate canonical methods of marriage preparation and acquire ability to exercise such a ministry;
- Explain how to apply for dispensation or annulment of marriage, when marriage has failed amongst couples.
Lecturer: Sr. Evelina TUIA, MF
CHURCH HISTORY
This course introduces the student to the history of the Church from its Jewish origins in the Greco-Roman world of the first century to the great debates of the fourth and fifth centuries on the Trinity and Christ. After analysing the earliest Christian Churches and the expansion of the Church, conflict within and outside the Churches is analysed, including the persecutions of the first and second centuries. Study of the Apostolic Fathers and earliest theologians will help to illustrate much of the development that was taking place, as does the struggle against heresy, especially Gnosticism. The development of ministry in this period is examined as well as the beginnings of monasticism, before the controversies of late Christian Antiquity, mainly Eastern are dealt with. The course concludes by returning to the West and with a treatment of Augustine and the Pelagian controversy.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Produce the historical context and social setting of the early Church;
- Explain the key contributions of leading figures and significant events in the early Church;
- Use primary sources and secondary studies to develop an accurate understanding of developments in the early Church;
- Create the historical milieu in which the patristic writers lived and worked, being able accurately to place them in the context of the late classical world;
- Critique the contribution of the patristic writers and their abiding relevance to today’s Church;
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
This course continues the study of Early Church History. It begins with the decline of the Roman Empire, and its effects on the Church, especially in the West, the Re-Christianization of the West and the development of the Medieval Papacy. The Church as the chief agent of Western civilization will be examined as will the rise and spread of Islam and its contribution to Western culture. The Late Medieval Church will then be studied mainly with the Reformation in mind, as a source of explanation of this upheaval. The life and teaching of Martin Luther and John Calvin form the essential study of the Reformation period, followed by a study of the introduction of the Reformation in England. This course concludes with a study of the Council of Trent.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the decline of the Roman Empire, its effects on the Church, the re-Christianization of the West and the development of the Medieval Papacy;
- Describe how the Church was the Chief Agent of Western Civilization as well as the rise and spread of Islam and its contribution to Western Culture;
- Explain the causes of Reformation and its influences on the Church today;
- Explain the theological and ecclesiastical ramifications of the Reformation in the response of the Council of Trent;
- Generate an ecumenical approach to Christianity.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
This class investigates the main theological and historical issues surrounding the Reformation with a tighter focus on the Eucharist/Liturgy and Sacred Scripture. The class alternates between lecture and seminar: lectures will provide overviews and analyses while seminars will discuss close readings of a variety of original sources (e.g. bishops’ registers, popular and
learned theological tracts, polemic).
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the Reformation era leading up to the first Vatican, its effects on the Church, the re-Christianization of the West and the development of the Medieval Papacy;
- Describe how the Church was the Chief Agent of Western Civilization as well as the rise and spread of Islam and its contribution to Western Culture;
This unit covers a vast period of Church History from the 16th Century to the 20th Century. It highlights the Counter-Reformation issues to do with strengthening of Church Doctrines, The Council of Trent opens this period and it ends with the Second Vatican Council and major events after Vatican II. Trends, which revolutionize the Church up to the dawn of the 21st Century, will also be observed. This course is also oriented toward a greater understanding of the development of the Catholic religious groups, their respective spirituality and mission objectives that correspond to the Church’s need of the time and their relevance today.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course students should be able to:
- Display an understanding of the historical context as the Church transitions from a European Church to a “World Church”;
- Demonstrate key Church developments from the 16~ Century to the 20~ Century, with particular focus on the rebirth of Catholic Spirituality;
- Appraise the nature of the interaction of the European Catholic Church with other cultures — i.e. the diverse cultures of the Pacific and her neighbours;
- Assess the reasons for the strengthening of Papal States and the central leadership in the Church, especially after the French Revolution;
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
This course unit shows how the writings of the church fathers are so important to the Church and her teachings. The overall purpose is to acquire a general but accurate knowledge of patristic literature through a direct study of the sources or original texts from the second to the fifth century. The course will critically study those texts with an eye toward contemporizing their teaching to the 21st century Church, especially in Oceania.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Know the Apostolic Fathers and Church Fathers;
- Understand why the Fathers of the Church came into existence;
- Understand the Fathers of the Church teachings;
- Identify the heretics in the ancient times;
- Explain how the tradition handed down to us from the Apostles continues to influence the Church today.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
The course introduces the main themes of contemporary theology of mission. It offers a theological reflection on the nature of mission and on the tasks of mission today. The course is dividing into two parts. First, the course will identify the influences of the western colonials in the Pacific. This will bring out the political and social developments of that time and the relationship between the Churches and the colonial administrations. Second, the course will cover the impacts and influences of the Second Vatican Council in the Pacific and the Churches. The approach of the course is from a missiological point of view.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this course the students will be able to:
- Produce in writing the major streams of Christian thought and their places in the contemporary world, identify the key turning points and milestones;
- Appraise the value and challenge of historical consciousness for engaging with issues that confront the contemporary church;
- Appraise the importance of interchange with modern society in shaping religious issues of the period;
- Critique the teaching of
- Vatican II in the context of the Pacific;
- Develop themes that are relevant to understanding contemporary Pacific history.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
The course will survey the arrival and the development of the Catholic faith in Samoa. Focusing the missiological element of its mission, it will offer a theological reflection on the nature of mission and on the tasks of Catholic faith in Samoa today. Elements of its development and social structure will be discuss as well as its evangelizing mission for the people of Samoa.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
CATHOLIC SOCIAL DOCTRINE
This course introduces the students to the meaning of justice and its various forms. It gives them an understanding and appreciation of the Church’s teaching on social justice, including the environment. It also enables them to see how working for justice is very much part of the prophetic role of the Church, and to study and reflect on the causes of social injustices and damage to the environment, on justice and environment issues, both local and beyond. Their understanding of Catholic Social Teaching (CST) will give them self-confidence to assess their local situations and be prophetic on justice and environmental issues.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Produce the Biblical, philosophical, theological and historical foundations of Justice;
- Defend the importance of justice to the Mission of the Church;
- Demonstrate a familiarity with the literature of justice with particular focus on Catholic social teaching;
- Develop the skill of moral reasoning through study of social issues examined in the light of Scripture and the Christian tradition;
- Justify the importance of a Christian engagement in public life that is responsible and prophetic.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
This course introduces the students to issues related to health, medical treatment, life, violence and death. It begins with a focus on the value of human life and human dignity. The course then goes into other relevant Christian values and principles. This is followed by a study of particular issues
(see the objectives below) in the light of Christian values and principles. Thus the course provides the students with a familiarity regarding underlying Christian values and principles as well as to assist the student to be sensitive to a range of ethical dilemmas, to evaluate issues in the light of Catholic ethical principles and to develop skills of applying moral principles to practical issues.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the moral issues present in the care of the environment, modern medicine and health care;
- Demonstrate knowledge of Catholic principles and codes relating to bioethical issues;
- Critique contemporary bioethical dilemmas from the point of view of Catholic moral thinking;
- Apply philosophical and theological principles to particular medical and health care issues;
- Formulate a theory that stresses the value of human life; the dignity of the human person.
Lecturer: Fr. Pesamino VICTOR
HOME ECONOMICS
These courses were designed for deacon’s wives to learn a trade or skills through sewing, cooking and other household activity to help their families and their future pastoral ministry. The courses are taken as Elective or Supplementary courses, and credits are awarded per year but not as pe tri-mester like the Core courses.
Lecturer: Mrs. Otilia LALOTOA / Mrs. Malama IAKOPO
These courses were designed for deacon’s wives to learn a trade or skills through sewing, cooking and other household activity to help their families and their future pastoral ministry. The courses are taken as Elective or Supplementary courses, and credits are awarded per year but not as per trimester like the Core courses.
Lecturer: Mrs. Otilia LALOTOA / Mrs. Malama IAKOPO
These courses were designed for deacon’s wives to learn a trade or skills through sewing, cooking and other household activity to help their families and their future pastoral ministry. The courses are taken as Elective or Supplementary courses, and credits are awarded per year but not as per trimester like the Core courses.
Lecturer: Mrs. Otilia LALOTOA / Mrs. Malama IAKOPO
HUMAN & SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
This course introduces the student and explore how human interactions are influenced by individual, collective, and structural forces such as mental health, social relationships, economic conditions, education and politics,
and movements for social justice and social change. A common goal of those who study Social Development Studies is to help people, communities, and nations flourish.
Lecturer: Dcn. Maselusi AMIATU
This course introduces students to the study of cultural anthropology and anthropological principles of the discipline as a social science and their application to various contexts. The main objective of this course is to develop each student’s understanding and appreciation of the concept of culture, and how this concept influences a person’s view of life and the world in which they live. Accordingly, the concept ‘culture’ which is becoming a very complex concept will be defined clearly. Also addressed is Culture and kingship: patterns of descent, social relationship and behaviour. Culture has a very important influence on theology and the ministry and life of a priest.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the significance of culture and cultural change from an anthropological perspective within Christian mission;
- Demonstrate an understanding of human nature from a Biblical perspective and how that perspective affects an approach to human beings within the context of culture;
- Demonstrate knowledge of human nature within the cultural environment;
- Demonstrate ability to engage in anthropological observation;
- Demonstrate basic proficiency in applying the gospel cross culturally.
Lecturer: Dcn. Maselusi AMIATU
This course will discuss the affirmation of the Catholic’s teachings on the gift of sexuality, on marriage, and on contraception, and are true and defensible on many grounds, among them the truths of reason and revelation concerning the dignity of the human person. By using Pope Saint Paul VI’s encyclical Humanae Vitae, the students will understand the person’s relationship to God and to other persons. It will also explore key principles and concepts of this encyclical in relation to the importance of life from conception to natural death.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
This course introduces the developmental theories in psychology. These theories will develop an initial understanding of the psychological development of the human person. The course will also deal with the psychological nature of clergy formation. It will demonstrate that through the process of self-awareness, the human person assimilates and accommodates more appropriate ways to engage in an intentional journey of realization of self in relation to God and others.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit, the students will be able to:
- Explain a variety of developmental theories in psychology;
- Describe how each theory understands the process of the psychological development of the human person;
- Distinguish psychological development from spiritual development and explain how they can be complementary from a psychological perspective;
- Describe the psychological nature of priestly formation;
- Explain through written reflections how developmental psychology can promote personal growth in relationship with God and other people.
Lecturer: Dcn. Maselusi AMIATU
LANGUAGE STUDIES
This course, the first undertaken by students as they enter MTCS is really ‘Foundation English’/and for some, very basic. As such, its aim is very practical. The course aims to strengthen the students’ skill levels in listening, speaking, reading and writing. They are asked to use language in a range of specialized settings (e.g. the academic essay, the homily, and ‘workplace’ documentation such as form-filling; letters, preparation of a Parish News Bulletin and the like).
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate that they have listening skills to the appropriate level;
- Show an acceptable level of oral presentation and skill in the spelling of words ordinarily used in the first year’s seminary program;
- Demonstrate the ability to use language in a range of settings (e.g. essay, homily, letters, etc.);
- Judge the difference between qualitative and quantitative data;
- Demonstrate the application of basic systematic or critical thinking skills to research, essay writing, etc.
This is a course of English for Theology and Ministry. It is designed to extend abilities in a range of language skills needed in writing and speaking as students for the diaconate or priesthood. The main aim of the course is to revise grammatical features of English and to develop communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The students are asked to take note of the differences between the first language and English, and to strengthen language learning by focusing on particular language items.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate the meaning of System Thinking;
- Correct grammatical mistakes of English in view of using them actively in communication;
- Develop skills in speaking, writing, listening, and reading English;
- Show the ability to speak and to write English correctly.
Lecturer: Sr. Losa TOFILAU
This course unit gives particular attention to the principles and practice of a systematic approach to writing and research and follows the Referencing Guidelines for MTCS.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate the application of basic systematic or critical thinking skills to research, essay writing etc.;
- Appraise the importance of organizing research data and describe some methods of organization;
- Demonstrate familiarity with the apparatus of critical writing and research;
- Select and record only what is relevant to their topic through critical
reading – Literature Review; - Produce an Abstract and written drafts leading up to the final paper within a given timeframe.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE/Dcn Maselusi AMIATU
These courses were designed for student’s as part of enhancing their cultural skills for their future pastoral ministry. The courses are taken as Elective or Supplementary courses, and credits are awarded per year but not as per trimester like the Core courses.
Lecturer: Dcn. Fa’afetai LALOTOA
These courses were designed for student’s as part of enhancing their cultural skills for their future pastoral ministry. The courses are taken as Elective or Supplementary courses, and credits are awarded per year but not as per trimester like the Core courses.
Lecturer: Dcn. Fa’afetai LALOTOA
MUSIC
These courses were designed for student’s as part of their future pastoral ministry. The courses are taken as Elective or Supplementary courses, and credits are awarded per year but not as per trimester like the Core courses.
Lecturer: Dcn. Fa’afetai LALOTOA
These courses were designed for student’s as part of their future pastoral ministry. The courses are taken as Elective or Supplementary courses, and credits are awarded per year but not as per trimester like the Core courses.
Lecturer: Dcn. Fa’afetai LALOTOA
These courses were designed for student’s as part of their future pastoral ministry. The courses are taken as Elective or Supplementary courses, and credits are awarded per year but not as per trimester like the Core courses.
Lecturer: Dcn. Fa’afetai LALOTOA
PHILOSOPHY
This course aims to teach students how to recognize arguments as found in their reading, and to give students a facility in analysing the validity of an argument using the basic rules of logic together with conventional symbols and terminology of logic.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Identify statements and arguments;
- Place arguments in standard form;
- Map the flow of complex arguments;
- Re-write and evaluate arguments;
- Analysing Real-Life Arguments from Publications;
- Create True/False Tables Using Truth Functional Connectives
- Identify Logical Fallacies.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
This course studies the valid forms of knowledge. The issues considered in the course are: Is the truth attainable? Is the sceptic right? What are the limits of knowledge? Which method should be used to obtain valid knowledge? What is the nature of truth? Specific attention is given to various complimentary ways of knowing: ontological (philosophical); constructural (scientific); humanistic (mythical), and supernatural (revelation). Students synthesize and evaluate the basic historical issues in the theory of knowledge. What is knowledge? How is it possible? What are current trends in this field? The course spotlights the phenomenological paradigm.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Prescribe what is involved in the activity of knowing;
- Propose answers to counter the challenge of scepticism and relativism;
- Contrast ontological and constructural ways of knowing;
- Explain why ontological, constructural, humanistic, and supernatural ways of knowing are each important;
- Compare the ways of knowing learnt in the course to their own cultural
way of knowing.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
Course will be available in 2023
Course will be available in 2023
Course will be available in 2023
SACRED LITURGY
This introductory course explores four areas of liturgical theology: cultural ritual, structure, context, and how it is applied to the church’s liturgical celebration. Ministries that serve the assembly will also be explored. A key area of study will be the role of the Word of God in the liturgical celebration (GIRM 55-71). The theological understanding of the Word of God actively present in the assembly as well as the structure and components of the Liturgy of the Word will be studied with a brief excursus on the lectionary.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the course the students will be able to:
- Identify the relationship between the purpose and meaning of the church’s liturgical celebrations and their own cultural ceremonies;
- Explain the ministerial role and theological understanding of the assembly and identify the ministries that serve the assembly’s prayer that are authenticated in right living;
- Describe why and how the Word of God is central to the church’s sacramental and liturgical life, theologically and ritually;
- Use the General Instruction of the Roman Missal and the Lectionary to prepare a Liturgy;
Lecturer: Fr. Siolosega SU’A KAPELI
In the course the students study the liturgical principles that guide the norms as outlined in GIRM including: fourfold presence of Christ; full, active, priestly participation by all the People of God; adaptations to the particular assembly and inculturation. This is followed by the structure and elements of the Mass with a focus on the Liturgy of the Eucharist (GIRM 72-89). Duties and ministries at Mass (GIRM 92-111) with a particular focus on the functions of the Acolyte (GIRM 187-193) and the Lector (GIRM 194-198), with reference to the Rites of Installation from the Book of Blessings. The prayers of the Roman Missal will be explored with a view to understanding the variety and depth of the prayers for the liturgical seasons, the ritual Masses and Masses for various needs and occasions. Finally, Liturgical Music its purpose and function in the liturgy (GIRM 39-41; 102-104) will be studied, including the three judgements: musical, liturgical and pastoral (Music in Catholic Worship).
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the course, the student will be able to:
- Recognise the importance of liturgical norms as illustrated in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal and be able to apply them in liturgical preparation and celebration;
- Know the theology, structure, and ritual elements of the liturgy of the Eucharist and how to reflect these to the liturgical celebration;
- Understand the ritual task of music in the liturgical celebration;
- Study the various liturgical ministries that assist the assembly to fully participate;
- Know how to set the Roman Missal according to the liturgical season and consider choices for the prayers and to prepare a Sunday celebration of the Word and Communion.
Lecturer: Fr. Siolosega SU’A KAPELI
This is the fundamental course on Liturgy studied by candidates for ordination. The basic aim is to examine the theology of Liturgy, how it has been understood in the tradition, by recent theologians and in the teaching of Vatican II. This is followed by an analysis of the function of symbol in liturgical worship. Theories of celebration are examined with a final section given to special questions on the Liturgical Year. It is hoped students will be able to distinguish Liturgical prayers and services from common prayer forms and private prayer and integrate this understanding into their Christological, ecclesiological and sacramental studies.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this course the students will be able to:
- Explain the meaning and purpose of the Liturgy for the worshipping life of the Church;
- Appraise the evolution of liturgical practices beginning from early Jewish temple and synagogue worship;
- Demonstrate a sound understanding of the major stages in the development of liturgical practice in the Roman tradition;
- Demonstrate a knowledge of theology underpinning the liturgical renewal after Vatican II;
- Prepare and conduct liturgies that incorporate local or cultural symbols.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
This course unit seeks to establish a theology of preaching that provides an adequate theoretical foundation to preaching practice and introduces students to the foundational skills needed for the preparation and delivery of expository sermons. It discusses the following topics: the tradition of preaching, the importance of the Bible to preaching, the personal dimension, constructing the homily, beginnings and endings of homilies, illustrating the homily, matters and style of delivery. What to preach and the person behind the homily Jesus Christ are central to the art of preaching.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Appraise the importance of the Bible and a solid knowledge of theology to preaching;
- Demonstrate the difference between written discourse and oral discourse and how preaching connects the two;
- Demonstrate skills in the preparation and delivery of expository sermons;
- Appraise the place of preaching in the dissemination of the Christian message and in the teaching and equipping ministry of the Church;
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
The art of celebrating prepares students to be ordained leaders of liturgical prayer. The course will demonstrate the relationship between their pastoral service as a member of a liturgical assembly. They will become familiar with the church’s ritual books that are at the service of the presider of the liturgy and the sacraments. Students will practice celebrating and presiding at each of the sacraments with particular focus on the ritual action, word, and choreography in relation to the church architecture. Attending to rubrics, all in the context of the worshipping assembly. The identity of the deacon as minister of charity and assistant to the bishop and priest during liturgical celebrations will be discussed according to the Ordination Rite.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the course the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate the ability to use the Church’s Ritual books of the Mass and Sacraments;
- Explain the prayerful preparation necessary in order to preside at sacraments;
- Choreograph the liturgy with attention to enabling full, conscious and active participation of the particular assembly;
- Describe the ministry of the deacon as outlined in the Rite of diaconal ordination.
Lecturer: Fr. Pesamino VICTOR
SACRED SCRIPTURE
The course begins with an overview of the fundamental topics in the study of the Scriptures such as Revelation, Inspiration, Inerrancy, Canonicity and Interpretation based on Dei Verbum (ch. 1-3). This is followed by a synopsis of the geographical and historical background of Old Testament times, highlighting the social, political, religious and philosophical settings from which the traditions and the writings of the Scriptures emerged. The third part of the course consists of a general outline of the Pentateuch, the Historical, Wisdom and Prophetic writings.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the ancient near east context of the Old Testament;
- Demonstrate a broad understanding of the overall structure and contents of the books of the Old Testament;
- Show an understanding of the unifying ‘covenant’ theme in the Old Testament;
- Produce a summary of the chief literary genres of the books of the Old Testament;
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
The course begins with an overview of the settings – the geographical and historical background, the Jewish religious institutions and feasts and the political and religious groups that provide the context for the formation of the New Testament. This is followed by a summary introduction of the New Testament documents and practical guidelines for using the tools, the resources, the methods and approaches in the study of biblical passages.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the geographical, cultural, historical, political and religious contexts from which the documents of the New Testament emerged;
- Demonstrate the skills, the resources, methods and approaches for the study of the Scriptures;
- Develop the skills to analyse the biblical texts and be able to apply the biblical message to issues in the universal Church, the church and community in their own Pacific context, and their personal spirituality;
- Utilize the tools, resources, the methods and approaches for studying the New Testament;
- Defend the belief that the whole New Testament is the Word of God.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
This course will have a strong emphasis on the relationship of covenant as seen in the stories of the books of Pentateuch. A second emphasis will be placed on Israel’s religious consciousness in relationship to the social, religious, political and literary history of the ancient Near East.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the literary forms of the Pentateuch;
- Appraise the Pentateuch as the foundation documents for Judaism and Christianity;
- Compare the thinking and belief of the two main schools of thought behind the Pentateuch;
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
This course is an in-depth look at the Catholic (James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1 & 2 & 3 John, Jude) and Pastoral (1 & 2 Timothy, Titus) Epistles. The course will focus on their canonical place, their theology of Christian and ecclesial life, and their continuing practical use in ministry. Our interaction with this section of the New Testament is intended to increase your knowledge of these collections of letters, as well as encourage your individual spiritual growth, your growth in the Body of Christ, and your skill in using the New Testament in ministry.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Gain a working knowledge of the themes and content of the Catholic and Pastoral Epistles. This includes a basic understanding of the place each letter and each collection has in the wider NT canon, the theological and ethical content, and the continuing relevance of the epistles for contemporary ministry.
- Gain a familiarity with the culture of the NT and early Church world, especially as it parallels contemporary cultural developments.
- Understand how these books fit in with the larger canonical context of the Gospels, the Pauline corpus, and the Book of Acts.
- Appreciate the relevance of the Catholic Epistles for teaching, preaching, church organization, and Christian living.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
The course begins with a survey of the history of Israelite Prophecy prior to the reign of Jeroboam the Second. Thereafter the lectures concentrate on six authors in the following order: Amos, Hosea, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Deutero-Isaiah. The authors are studied against the background of the historical situations in which they lived and worked, to the extent that either the OT or other sources provide us with that kind of information. A selection of texts is drawn from each author as the basis both for the study of his thought and for a general summary of information relating to the forms of prophetic discourse. A concluding survey concerns itself with a brief treatment of the other literary prophets whose work places them in the period prior to 539 BC.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Outline the history of Israelite Prophecy;
- Determine the Prophetic concerns and genres;
- Justify the style each prophet used to relay the core message;
- Appraise the prophets and their message;
- Contextualize this study in today’s world.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
The course is an introduction on the two New Testament documents that are ascribed to Luke, the Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. It focuses on Luke’s use of images, characters, plot and literary form to highlight the major theological themes of mission and universalism in his writings. Proper consideration is also accorded to the historical, cultural and religious settings of the writings. Students are asked to read and examine selected passages from the Gospel and the Acts to increase familiarity with the literary characteristics and theology of Luke.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Produce the main critical issues associated with the study of the Lukan literature;
- Demonstrate how the principal literary forms in Acts communicate their theological content;
- Utilize and improve skills learned for interpreting biblical passages;
- Tell of the relevance of the Lukan literature for contemporary Christian preaching, teaching and spirituality .
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
The course is an introduction to Paul, the man, his mission, his letters. It focuses mainly on the study of the undisputed letters of Paul as a primary source and provides an overview of the letters attributed to Paul (deuteroPauline letters). It hopes that students will have a better understanding of the historical setting and pastoral situations to which Paul responded and to appreciate the impact of Paul’s letters on the theology and life of the Church, and in particular in the Pacific context and in one’s spiritual journey.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the course, the students will be able to:
- Formulate an overview of the Pauline letters and their main themes;
- Develop further the basic principles and skills for studying the biblical texts;
- Do exegeses and commentaries on some passages in Galatians, Romans, and 1 Corinthians;
- Explain the impact of Paul’s letters on the theology and life of the Church;
- Integrate insights gained from the course to the local communities of the Pacific for one’s spirituality.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
This course will acquaint students with the history, theology, and critical study of the Former Prophets of the Hebrew Bible: Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings. The focus is the proper interpretation of its message to Israel and its abiding significance for the church.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the course, the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of the history and theology of the Former Prophets of the Old Testament: Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings.
- Reflect on the Old Testament as an ancient document and its implications for interpretation.
- Understand the goals and methods of biblical historiography in its ancient context.
- Be familiar with the literary and artistic qualities of biblical narrative.
- Summarize the issues associated with writing a modern history of Israel.
- Understand how the exile and restoration of Israel serve as background for understanding the life and work of Jesus Christ.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
In this course students are introduced to the exegetical methods of biblical criticism. To this end there will be exegetical applications to both Testaments with a view to preaching, pastoral work, moral decision-making and the spiritual life. Part of the methodology will be group work and the oral sharing of students’ exegetical research to learn from each other. The Church’s interpretation of the Bible is an important part of the course.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the course, the students will be able to:
- Become familiar with personal and historical factors that influence one’s hermeneutic
- Present the history of hermeneutics in the church and draw both positive and negative consequences
- Understand “meaning” and “application” of a Scriptural text.
- Justify using the same hermeneutic that the Bible itself uses.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
Each Synoptic Gospel is studied separately to discover its theological richness and literary emphases. Highlighting each Gospel will be the major themes of discipleship, faith, the Galilean ministry, Eucharist, journey to Jerusalem, passion, death and resurrection of Jesus and the community situations of the primitive churches for whom each Gospel was written.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate understanding of the pastoral context from which the Gospel emerged, and the structure and theological purpose of Synoptic Gospels;
- Appreciate the literary style and techniques used by Mark, Matthew and Luke;
- Use the scientific methods for analysing biblical texts;
- Demonstrate understanding of the varied uses of the commentaries in interpreting biblical passages;
- Apply the gospel message for pastoral application in the Pacific context, and in developing one’s spirituality.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
The course is an introduction to the Johannine documents in the New Testament – the Fourth Gospel as “a spiritual gospel” (Clement of Alexandria), and the letters as addressing a divided Johannine Christian community. It investigates the historical world of the community, examines the literary styles and techniques unique to Johannine writings, and explores the theological message of the Johannine writings and its relevance to the Christian communities in the universal Church, in the Pacific context, and in developing one’s spirituality.
Learning Outcomes:
At the completion of the course, the students will:
- Have a better knowledge of the historical context that produced the Johannine documents, its stylistic features and theological purpose particularly of the Fourth Gospel;
- Develop further the skills for analysing biblical texts that have been learned;
- Have a greater openness to allow the message of the Gospel to shape one’s spirituality.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
Half of this course is pure survey and includes: Lamentations, Song of Songs, the Psalter, Proverbs, Job, Kohelet, Ben Sira, Wisdom of Solomon and Baruch. The treatment of the Psalter within the survey attempts to concentrate on the psalms familiar from the recitation of the Morning and Evening Prayer of the Church, and to analyse them on the basis of themes, structure and critical problems. The second half of this course concentrates on the Books of Job, Proverbs, and the Wisdom of Solomon.
Learning Outcomes:
At the completion of the course, the students will be able to:
- Explain each of the books studied and assess their relevance in today’s context;
- Identify the distinctive literary forms of wisdom literature, and their content and themes, and in particular the figure of Wisdom;
- Describe the importance of the Psalms and their theology;
- Appraise the contribution of the Psalms and Wisdom Literature to the New Testament and to contemporary Christian living.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
This course surveys briefly the Apocalyptic Literature and its genres. We read, with this background, the Book of Revelation in its First century context. Then we study the structure, the major symbols and the OT allusions of the book . By an exegesis of specific passages, the Christology and the ecclesiology of the Book are then studied, leading to a study of their integration in “the Marriage of the Lamb.” All this is done taking account of the varied cultures of all the students. The usual background questions of authorship, etc. are also surveyed.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the major symbols of the book of Revelation in the context of the relevant apocalyptic and prophetic literature;
- Defend and critique the theological message of this book as the Word of God;
- Explain the use of the OT in this book, especially Daniel and Ezekiel;
- Develop principles and insights from the Book of Revelation for contemporary life and ministry;
- Evaluate the relevance of the eschatological “Marriage of the Lamb” for today.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
SACRED THEOLOGY
This course focuses mainly on the Sacraments. It hopes to provide a deeper theological meaning and understanding of the sacraments, especially their historical and developmental dimension. It covers the principle of the Catholic sacramental system in comparison to the Protestant understanding. It also looks at the Biblical Orientation of the ‘Seven Catholic Sacraments’ and at Jesus as the Primordial Sacrament and the Church as the Foundational Sacrament. The course hopes to lead to a better understanding, deeper appreciation and conviction for authentic sacramental celebration, living and pastoral ministry.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the course the students will be able to:
- Appraise that sacramentality of creation in a Pacific way as sacred encounter with God;
- Explain the evolution of Christian sacraments and the sacramental system from their biblical foundations through to the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council;
- Demonstrate an understanding that it is in celebrating the seven sacraments that we come to experience in an intense way, Christ’s paschal mystery;
- Explore the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults as the norm for Christian Initiation and its meaning in relation to baptism, confirmation and Eucharist;
- Situate the celebration of the sacraments in the pastoral and cultural context of local communities in the Pacific.
Lecturer: Fr. Siolosega SU’A KAPELI
The course will examine Christian spirituality both thematically and historically. It will consider its roots in the Bible, the development of themes and techniques of praying through the centuries, and the practical expressions of different schools of spirituality. The course will include the study of ten primary texts that are representative of different historical periods and themes. Every effort will be made to offer practical applications of spirituality so as to support the on-going spiritual development of students and the utilization of spirituality in their future ministry.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
- Identify the biblical, cultural and theological sources of Christian spirituality;
- Analyse major themes in Christian spirituality;
- Critique the historical and cultural influences upon the development of spirituality;
- Explain different schools of Christian spirituality;
- Develop a practical application of the Christian spiritual tradition to their own future ministries.
Lecturer: Fr. Maselino LAFAELE
An interdisciplinary, course about biblical, theological and historical models of individual and corporate prayer. The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction to the theology and practice of prayer in the Catholic tradition. This course will help us to discover the richness of our heritage in the understanding and practice of prayer. This will happen through the exploration of the experience of prayer in both the Old and New Testaments, as well as history of the Church. It will also examine the place of prayer in both the life of the individual and the community.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
- be able to articulate the place of Scripture in shaping our understanding of prayer,
- have used scripture as a primary source of prayer;
- have begun to develop a theology of prayer;
- be aware of and experienced the rich diversity in the practice of prayer within the Christian community over the centuries;
- have gained an exposure to a range of prayer “classics” in the Protestant, Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions;
- have undertaken a range of guided prayer experiences;
- have undergone a deeper exploration of the discipline of praying with Scripture (lectio divina).
- Understand and have practiced prayer as dialogue, or the relational nature of prayer.
Lecturer: Fr. Maselino LAFAELE
The main focus of this unit deals with the perennial human quests about the existence of God, human existence and creation. It will cover the formative factors in theology as well as the different methods of doing theology especially in light of the teaching of Vatican II and the Theological Commission.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of what theology is and how it has been defined and understood throughout history;
- Display an understanding of the sources and methodologies for doing theology;
- Demonstrate a knowledge of the special relationship among scripture, Tradition and Church’s magisterium;
- Appraise the importance of cultural experience, myths, stories and legends of a particular people in doing theology;
- Display clearly the mutual relationship among science, theology, philosophy, and faith.
Lecturer: Fr. Mikaele LAFAELE
While this course addresses the three sacraments of Christian Initiation, its emphasis is on the study of the sacrament of Baptism. It considers the various baptismal expressions and practices found in the New Testament, then provides a survey of the sacrament as found in the Church writings of the first three centuries. Greater emphasis is given to the fourth century mystagogical catechesis of Ambrose of Milan, Theodore of Mopsuestia, Cyril of Jerusalem, and John Chrysostom. The study of these Church Fathers provides the basis for a close examination of the present “Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.”
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- familiarity with the textual sources of the history of baptism & conĕrmation
- an understanding of the deeper theological meaning of the symbols and actions of the rites
- a critical, well-informed approach to ongoing questions and issues in the practice of Christian initiation
- a sense of the dignity of all the baptized, and its implications for other areas of theology, such as ecclesiology, ecumenism and theology of orders Skills
- an understanding of how to celebrate the rites well, and to make pastoral-liturgical decisions in an informed and intelligent manner
- the ability to articulate, express, and evaluate distinct theologies of the rites in the life of the Church
- the ability to interpret the rites mystagogically, both creatively and critically
Lecturer: Dcn Fa’afetai LALOTOA
The course will study the text of the Rite of Penance and the Pastoral Care of the Sick as revised by decree of the Second Vatican Council and published by authority of Pope Paul VI in order to develop a theology and pastoral application of the sacraments of healing. A theology of sin and of healing will contextualize both sacraments. The sacraments’ Scriptural bases will be followed by the study of their development in the Church’s Tradition. Their theology and pastoral application will be developed through an analysis of their symbols and their intended effects. Consideration will be given to adaptations of these rites to the cultures of Oceania. The rite of exorcism will also be studied in an Oceanic context.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Situate the Sacraments of Healing within the context of the history of salvation;
- Explain the Scriptural bases and historical development in the Church’s Tradition for the Sacrament of Penance and the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick;
- Explain the purpose of the symbols and rituals of the Sacraments of Healing;
- Develop pastoral practices for ministering to penitents and the sick;
- Apply insights from the rite of exorcism to pastoral care of the sick.
Lecturer: Fr. Pesamino VICTOR
This short introductory course to the vast and complex field of world religions will focus on the worldview of each religion: the beliefs and values that make the religions meaningful to followers. Time is given to look seriously at the basic teachings of the main religions: what are their major differences and what are areas in which they agree. Also looked at are ways which can bring unity and harmony to different religions. It will also provide motivation for such study by reflection on contemporary Church teachings on Inter-Religious Dialogue.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the significant part religion plays in the lives of people in the world today;
- Critique the fundamental worldview of some of the major religions as well as some of their customs and practices;
- Justify the need for the presence and the acknowledgment of the divine in human affairs;
- Prescribe a religious Creed which can be accepted with joy by all people of different religion;
- Defend the need to enter into respectful dialogue with persons of other faith traditions, in keeping with contemporary teachings of the Catholic Church.
Lecturer: Sr. Vitolia MAUU, MF
Marian Theology is our inquiry in faith or the scientific study of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. Mary is an important part of Christian Faith but most importantly the Catholic Faith. As Catholics we believe that Mary is the Mother of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who is the Creator of heaven, earth and humanity. Hence, the Catholic Church teaches that Mary plays an important role in the plan of God for the salvation of the whole world. She was not only specially chosen by God from the very beginning but also she was part of the Divine Plan for the salvation of humanity in Jesus Christ. Mary’s faith response to God’s call at the Annunciation was the decisive moment for the realization of God’s divine plan of salvation for the whole of humanity. Mary’s “YES” has changed the course of God’s revelation towards humanity in that God becomes incarnated. Mary’s yes is total and complete. Mary’s yes allowed God to become man, the divine becomes the secular and heaven touched earth. Mary’s response becomes the Church’s response.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the Catholic theological understanding of Mary;
- Realize the special role of Mary in the Divine Plan of salvation;
- Compile what non-believers say about Mary;
- Defend Mary as the Mother of God, Jesus and the Church – from errors;
- Support the thesis that the importance the Church renders to Mary is also rendered to all women.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, MF
A study of Catholic saints and their ecclesiological, historical, liturgical and spiritual importance to Catholic Christians especially. The course examines official church documents pertaining to the saints, the Church’s procedures for declaring sainthood, writings of and about the saints, historical and systematic studies of saints and sainthood, and popular traditions associated with the saints.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the Catholic theological understanding of saints;
- Realize the special role of the saints in the Divine Plan of salvation;
- Articulate their reverence for the saints through devotions;
- Able to pick a personal saint as their faith companion.
Lecturer: Fr. Nicolas Douglas FIDO, M
Building on earlier courses in Ecclesiology, Mission Theology and Church History, this course aims to deepen the student’s understanding of the Principles and Guidelines of Ecumenical Dialogue as laid out by Vatican II Decree on Ecumenism (Unitatis Redintegratio). This will form the first part of the course. It will also study the phenomenon of New Religious Movements and or Sects throughout the world and especially the Pacific. This will be the focus of Part II. Students will learn the skills of Ecumenical dialogue with other Christians and New Religious Movements.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students should be able to:
- Explain the history of division among the Christian churches;
- Give evidence the skills of Ecumenical Dialogue based on the principles and guidelines laid out by Vatican II on the Decree on Ecumenism (Unitatis Redintegratio, UR) and the World Council of Churches;
- Explain how to engage in dialogue with New Religious Movements;
- Outline the movement towards unity found within the Catholic Church and other Christian Denominations;
- Describe the process of facilitation Ecumenical dialogue in each of their dioceses and ministry locations.
Lecturer: Sr. Evelina TUIA, MF
The course will trace the development of the theology of the Holy Trinity in Christianity and consider the implications of that theology for Christian life and ministry. It will start with texts in the Old Testament that Christians have interpreted as prefiguring the Trinity, the Christian interpretation of Jesus as revealing the Trinity, the elaboration of Trinitarian insights in the writings of the Pauline corpus, in the four Gospels, and in the Letter to the Hebrews. It will proceed to study the development of Trinitarian theology in the Fathers of the Church through the European Middle Ages, and into contemporary times.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
- Identify the biblical foundations of the theology of the Trinity;
- Explain the questions and attempts at answers in the theological development of the Trinity;
- Explain the theological language applied to the Trinity and propose translations of them into Oceanic terms;
- Critique traditional theological explanations for the Trinity and propose new ones;
- Develop a practical application of the theology of the Trinity in their own spirituality and future ministries.
Lecturer: Sr. Evelina TUIA, MF
The course will study the significance of the Christ-event starting with a “low Christology” approach. It will consider what can be known of the historical Jesus and the effects he had on people in the first century A.D. It will study how the New Testament expresses the Christian belief that Jesus inaugurated the Kingdom of God through his life, death, resurrection, and ascension. It will then consider “high Christology” and what Christ means in the 21st century, with particular application to Oceania. The course will study how Christ conquers sin and completes the history of salvation.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Explain the “Quest for the Historical Jesus” beginning in the 18th century;
- Describe the factors that modern theologians use to understand the Jesus-event;
- Explain the significance of the Jesus-event for salvation;
- Explain the meaning of Jesus’ miracles, discourses, passion, death, resurrection, and ascension in the development of the theology of the Kingdom of God;
- Describe the development of “Low” and “High Christology” and develop a Christology suited to 21st century Oceanic cultures.
Lecturer: Fr. Pesamino VICTOR
The Eucharist is the summit and source of the Church’s entire life, and therefore of the priest’s life. This course studies the Old and New Testament foundations for the Eucharistic mystery, with its development in history and liturgy which record our ecclesial faith in the Eucharist as Presence, as Sacrifice and as Communion. Different philosophical explanation of the Eucharist will be discussed and evaluated. Theological discussion will cover issues arising from Vatican II: The Eucharist as effective symbol of the Church’s unity in the context of ecumenism and enculturation.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Produce the Biblical foundation of the doctrine of the Eucharist;
- Explain the key concepts of remembrance, symbol, Ritual, Liturgical action and Sacrament;
- Engage in theological reflection on Eucharistic doctrine especially the ‘real presence’ of Christ in the Eucharist;
- Support the centrality of the Eucharist in the Christian community [the Eucharistic celebration is the faith community celebrating the drama of God’s self-giving for us as Grace in creating, reconciling, and drawing all to fullness in God’s self through Christ Jesus in the Spirit];
- Develop a theology of the Eucharist which incorporates local symbols and practices.
Lecturer: Fr. Pesamino VICTOR
The course introduces the main themes of contemporary theology of mission. It offers a theological reflection on the nature of mission and on the tasks of mission today. The first part offers an overview of the main questions in missiology today. The second part presents some important biblical foundations for mission, followed by an historical overview of the ways in which the Church has understood Christ’s missionary mandate. The last part deals with significant trends and themes in the emerging ecumenical missionary paradigm and explores new ways of doing mission that are faithful to Christ’s mandate. The course will consider the far-reaching changes since the 1960s both in the language (understanding) and the practice of mission in both the Catholic and Protestant traditions.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course the students will be able to:
- Critically explain the foundation, the goal and the theological meaning of “mission” as one of the principal themes of contemporary theology;
- Understand the foundations for mission in the Bible and the biblical models of mission, especially in the N.T.;
- Analyse the main “models” or “paradigms” of evangelization Ad Gentes in history;
- Be aware of the solid grasp of the main elements of a Trinitarian and Kingdom-centered theology of mission;
- Appreciation of the complexity of issues facing mission today.
Lecturer: Fr. Pesamino VICTOR
This study will attempt to define the Catholic understanding of church. It will start with a consideration of the scriptural roots of the church. It will then study subsequent models that have been proposed for the church. Finally, it will examine how Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and Protestantism have developed their own ecclesiologies and how they might be harmonized in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the unit the students will be able to:
- Identify the diverse ways by the New Testament understood church;
- Explain the relationship between ecclesiology and soteriology;
- Describe different models of the church;
- Explain the ecclesiology of the Vatican II Dogmatic Constitution Lumen Gentium;
- Compare the ecclesiologies of the Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant traditions.
Lecturer: Sr. Evelina TUIA, MF
The primary goal of this course is to study the biblical and theological meaning of revelation and faith base on the teaching of the Church in view of pastoral praxis and in the light of the Vatican II document Dei Verbum . This course unit shows the important role of revelation and faith in the life of Christianity. The course explores why Christianity believes itself to be a revealed religion.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course the students will be able to:
- Explain clearly revelation in the context Christian faith;
- Critique the ways God reveals himself;
- Appraise the official teaching of the Roman Catholic Church on Revelation and Faith;
- Explain clearly what it means to have faith;
- Analyse the difference between Christians and other faith traditions understand how God works in creation.
Lecturer: Fr. Maselino LAFAELE
QUESTIONS?
Whether you are interested in learning more about your faith or wish to pursue a career in ministry or pastoral areas you will find something at Moamoa Theological College and Seminary to meet your needs. We’re here to answer any questions.